05457, Franklin, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05457, Franklin, Vermont is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.68 percent of residents in 05457 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwestern Medical Center Inc with a distance of 11.18 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 05457

The picturesque town of Franklin, Vermont, nestled within ZIP code 05457, presents a unique blend of rural charm and the practical considerations of healthcare access. Assessing the "Hypertension Score" for this area involves a deep dive into the available transportation options, evaluating their efficiency and accessibility for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular medical attention and medication adherence. This score, ultimately, reflects the ease with which residents can commute to healthcare facilities, influencing their ability to effectively manage their health.

The primary challenge in Franklin, like many rural communities, is the reliance on personal vehicles. The vast majority of residents depend on their cars to navigate the network of roads connecting them to essential services. This dependence underscores the significance of understanding drive times to healthcare providers. The primary arteries for transportation are Route 78, Route 120, and Route 36.

Driving to the closest primary care provider in St. Albans, a common destination for healthcare needs, typically involves a drive along Route 78, the primary east-west artery. Depending on traffic and the specific location within Franklin, the drive time averages between 15 and 25 minutes. Route 120 provides an alternate route, offering a scenic but potentially slower journey, especially during peak hours. Route 36, though less direct, might be utilized for access to providers in Swanton, with drive times also averaging around 20-30 minutes.

For those without personal vehicles, the public transportation landscape presents a different picture. Green Mountain Transit (GMT), the regional public transit provider, offers limited service in Franklin. The available routes are infrequent, and the coverage is not comprehensive, especially for those living outside the town center. The primary bus route serving Franklin is Route 41, which connects to St. Albans and potentially offers access to medical facilities. However, the schedule is limited, with few trips per day, and the service may not be available during evenings or weekends.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the GMT buses is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. All GMT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and route coverage remain significant barriers to healthcare access for many.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is sporadic and availability can be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of Franklin. This inconsistency poses a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, who require timely access to medication refills, check-ups, and emergency care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a financial burden, especially for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several private companies operate in the region, including North Country Hospital and Medical Center Transportation, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing. However, they provide a reliable and accessible option for individuals who cannot drive or have limited mobility.

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 05457 is, therefore, influenced by a combination of factors. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the specialized nature of medical transportation all contribute to the overall picture of healthcare access.

For individuals moving to Franklin, the "Hypertension Score" should be a key consideration. Prospective residents with hypertension should carefully evaluate the transportation options available and assess their ability to access healthcare providers regularly. This assessment should include:

* **Drive Time Analysis:** Calculate the estimated drive times to their preferred healthcare providers, considering traffic patterns and road conditions.
* **Public Transit Feasibility:** Investigate the GMT route schedules and assess their suitability for their healthcare needs, taking into account frequency, accessibility, and travel time.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in the area, considering potential delays and fluctuations in demand.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** Explore the availability and cost of medical transportation services, ensuring they meet their specific needs and budget.

The "Hypertension Score" is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access. Improving the score requires a multifaceted approach, including:

* **Expanding Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency and coverage of GMT routes, particularly to medical facilities, would significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Promoting Ride-Sharing:** Encouraging the presence of ride-sharing services through incentives or partnerships with healthcare providers could enhance accessibility.
* **Supporting Medical Transportation:** Providing subsidies or financial assistance for medical transportation services could alleviate the financial burden on patients.
* **Community Education:** Raising awareness about available transportation options and healthcare resources could empower residents to make informed decisions about their health.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 05457 highlights the importance of transportation in managing chronic conditions. By understanding the existing challenges and actively working towards solutions, the community can create a more accessible and supportive environment for individuals living with hypertension, ensuring they can thrive in their chosen home.