05456, Ferrisburgh, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05456, Ferrisburgh, Vermont is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.08 percent of residents in 05456 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Porter Hospital, Inc with a distance of 15.25 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Ferrisburgh, VT (ZIP Code 05456)

Ferrisburgh, Vermont, nestled amidst rolling hills and the shimmering expanse of Lake Champlain, presents a picturesque backdrop for life. However, the bucolic charm of this Addison County town masks the complexities of accessing essential healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 05456, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities equipped to manage this chronic condition. This is especially relevant for anyone considering moving to Ferrisburgh, where understanding healthcare access is paramount.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a formal, standardized metric, but rather a qualitative assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities impacting healthcare access for residents with hypertension. Factors considered include drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape, enabling informed decisions regarding healthcare management.

**The Road Ahead: Navigating the Highways and Byways**

For those who rely on personal vehicles, the primary arteries connecting Ferrisburgh to healthcare are the major roadways. Route 7, a north-south thoroughfare, serves as the primary conduit, providing access to healthcare facilities in both directions. Driving south on Route 7 leads to the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, a major tertiary care center offering comprehensive services, including specialized hypertension management. The drive, approximately 25 miles, typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic.

Traveling north on Route 7 offers access to healthcare options in the town of Vergennes, including the Porter Medical Center, a community hospital providing a range of services, including primary care and some specialty clinics. The drive to Vergennes is considerably shorter, approximately 10 to 15 minutes, making it a more accessible option for routine checkups and less complex medical needs.

Smaller roads, such as Route 22A, provide alternative routes, but these are generally less direct and may involve navigating winding country lanes. These routes can be useful for local errands but are less efficient for reaching larger medical centers. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and accessibility.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Ferrisburgh are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service in the area, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly for areas outside of Burlington. The primary GMT route serving Ferrisburgh is the Route 116, which runs between Burlington and Bristol.

While Route 116 does provide some service to Ferrisburgh, the frequency of buses is limited, often operating on a schedule designed for commuter traffic. This means that access to medical appointments outside of typical business hours may be difficult. Furthermore, the route may not directly serve all medical facilities, requiring transfers or a considerable walk from the bus stop.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. GMT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the overall limitations of the public transit system in Ferrisburgh, including the limited frequency and route coverage, present significant challenges for individuals with hypertension, especially those with mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Burlington area, but their availability in Ferrisburgh is less reliable. Ride-sharing services are more likely to be available during peak hours and in areas with higher population density. Relying on ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments can be risky, as availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can vary.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. These services are often covered by insurance and are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, eligibility for NEMT services is often based on medical necessity, and availability may be limited.

**The "Hypertension Score" Implications**

The "Hypertension Score" for Ferrisburgh (ZIP code 05456) reflects a moderate level of accessibility to healthcare, particularly for individuals with hypertension. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Vergennes offers a convenient option for some, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing more comprehensive care in Burlington poses a challenge. The limited public transit options and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

Individuals considering moving to Ferrisburgh, particularly those with hypertension or other chronic conditions, should carefully assess their transportation needs and preferences. The ability to drive is a significant advantage, as it provides the most reliable access to healthcare. For those without a personal vehicle, exploring alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing and medical transport, is essential.

**The Importance of Proactive Planning**

Managing hypertension effectively requires regular monitoring, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. These elements require consistent access to healthcare providers and support services. Residents of Ferrisburgh should proactively plan for their healthcare needs, considering factors such as the location of their primary care physician, the availability of specialist services, and the transportation options available to them.

Understanding the transportation landscape is critical for individuals with hypertension. This includes knowing the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. By proactively planning and adapting to the transportation challenges, residents of Ferrisburgh can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their overall health and well-being.