05462, Huntington, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05462, Huntington, Vermont is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.57 percent of residents in 05462 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Univ. Of Vermont - Fletcher Allen Health Care with a distance of 15.26 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05462

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, particularly for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up, focused on ZIP code 05462 (Huntington, Vermont), analyzes the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing necessary medical care, specifically concerning hypertension management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential healthcare services, thereby informing decisions about relocation or adapting to existing circumstances.

The 'Hypertension Score' considers several factors: drive times to healthcare providers, availability and accessibility of public transit, ride-share options, and medical transportation services. Each element is assessed and weighted to provide a holistic view of the transportation environment. This detailed analysis aims to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access in Huntington, Vermont, for individuals managing hypertension.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation in Huntington, Vermont, is the personal vehicle. Drive times significantly influence healthcare access. Residents must consider the distances to primary care physicians, specialists (cardiologists, nephrologists, etc.), pharmacies, and hospitals. The primary arteries for travel are Route 116, Route 17, and local roads.

Accessing primary care is often the first step in hypertension management. The nearest primary care practices are likely in neighboring towns like Bristol or Richmond. Expect drive times on Route 116 to Bristol to range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Travel to Richmond, also via Route 116, might take 20 to 30 minutes. These drive times are generally manageable but can be challenging during winter months when roads become icy and snow-covered.

Specialist care, such as cardiology, may require travel to Burlington, the largest city in the region. This journey typically involves taking Route 116 to Interstate 89, then heading north. The drive to Burlington can take 45 minutes to an hour, potentially longer during rush hour. This longer commute presents a significant challenge, particularly for those requiring frequent specialist visits or experiencing acute hypertension-related events.

Pharmacies are essential for medication adherence. Local pharmacies in Bristol and Richmond offer convenient options. However, the travel time adds to the overall burden of managing hypertension. The University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington provides comprehensive care, including emergency services. Reaching this facility requires a longer drive, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and awareness of potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Huntington are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some service to the area, but it is not extensive. GMT Route 116, for example, serves the corridor between Burlington and Bristol, passing through Huntington. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes are designed for commuters and may not align with medical appointment schedules.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. GMT strives to provide accessible buses with ramps or lifts. However, the availability of accessible stops in Huntington is variable. Individuals with mobility limitations must confirm accessibility before relying on public transit. The reliance on public transit for medical appointments can be particularly challenging for those managing hypertension.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Burlington area. However, their availability in Huntington is less consistent. Ride-share availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can create significant challenges for those without personal vehicles.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Bayada Home Health Care and other local providers may offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and may involve costs not covered by insurance. The availability of medical transport services is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access for those unable to drive.

**The 'Hypertension Score' and Moving to Huntington**

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP code 05462 would reflect a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a degree of independence, but the drive times to specialists and hospitals in Burlington introduce challenges. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate access.

Individuals considering moving to Huntington, Vermont, and managing hypertension should carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. They should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential need for medical transport services.

The 'Hypertension Score' would likely be moderate, indicating that while healthcare access is possible, it requires careful planning and consideration of the transportation challenges. The score could be improved by expanding public transit options, increasing ride-share availability, and promoting the accessibility of medical transport services.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Individuals with hypertension considering a move to Huntington should investigate several key aspects. Firstly, they should confirm the availability of their current medications at local pharmacies. Secondly, they should research the proximity of healthcare providers and hospitals. Thirdly, they should assess the availability and reliability of transportation options.

Furthermore, individuals should consider the potential impact of weather conditions on travel. Winter weather can significantly increase drive times and make public transit unreliable. The 'Hypertension Score' is a dynamic measure, and its value can change based on individual circumstances and community initiatives.

This detailed analysis underscores the importance of understanding the transportation landscape when assessing healthcare access. For those managing hypertension, careful planning and awareness of the available transportation options are crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being. The 'Hypertension Score' serves as a valuable tool for informed decision-making and advocating for improved healthcare access within the community.