05487, Starksboro, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05487, Starksboro, Vermont is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.31 percent of residents in 05487 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Porter Hospital, Inc with a distance of 17.13 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05487

ZIP Code 05487, encompassing the charming town of Starksboro, Vermont, offers a tranquil rural existence. However, for residents managing hypertension, the serenity might be challenged by the realities of accessing healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape impacting **healthcare access** for individuals in Starksboro, assigning a "Hypertension Score" based on commute times, transportation options, and accessibility features. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Starksboro**, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

The primary factor influencing the Hypertension Score is the time required to reach essential medical appointments. Starksboro’s location necessitates travel to larger towns and cities for specialized care. Driving is the dominant mode of **transportation** in this area, and the condition of the roads and traffic patterns directly impact access. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities in Burlington (approximately 30 miles east) involves navigating Route 17, known for its winding curves and potential for seasonal delays, particularly during winter.

The drive to Burlington, home to the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC), typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour under ideal conditions. This timeframe can easily extend due to adverse weather, construction, or traffic congestion, significantly impacting the ability of individuals with hypertension to reach appointments promptly. The secondary route involves taking Route 116 south to Route 2, and then heading east, a route that can be slightly longer.

For those seeking care in Middlebury (approximately 20 miles south), the journey typically involves Route 17 and Route 125, resulting in a drive time of around 30 to 45 minutes. This option provides access to Porter Medical Center, offering a range of medical services. Both routes present challenges, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The Hypertension Score reflects these potential delays and the associated stress.

Public transportation options in Starksboro are limited. Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service in the region, but the routes and schedules are not designed for frequent, direct trips to major healthcare facilities. Route 21, the closest GMT route, runs along Route 116, offering limited service to Bristol and Vergennes. This route does not directly connect to hospitals or specialist clinics, requiring multiple transfers and significantly increasing travel time.

The ADA accessibility features on GMT buses are a positive aspect, but the infrequency of service and the need for transfers present significant challenges for individuals with hypertension who require timely access to care. The limited public transportation options contribute negatively to the Hypertension Score, highlighting the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Burlington area, but their availability in Starksboro and the surrounding rural areas is often inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather, is questionable. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing in this area adds to the complexity of accessing healthcare and negatively impacts the Hypertension Score.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. Companies like Bayada Home Health Care and Senior Solutions provide transportation assistance for medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for urgent needs. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant factor, and the availability of these services does not fully compensate for the lack of accessible public transportation.

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 05487 is influenced by the following factors: the time required to travel to healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical transportation. The dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic contribute to the overall score.

The score is also affected by the distance to healthcare facilities, the lack of direct public transportation routes, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services. The absence of a comprehensive, accessible, and affordable transportation network creates challenges for individuals with hypertension in managing their condition effectively. The score serves as a critical indicator of the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare.

The challenges in **healthcare access** in Starksboro are a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Starksboro**, especially those with pre-existing health conditions. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for delays all contribute to the complexities of managing hypertension. The information provided is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare needs and planning for the future.

The Hypertension Score reflects the need for improvements in **transportation** infrastructure and services to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents of Starksboro. Addressing these challenges is crucial for promoting the health and well-being of the community. The score serves as a call to action, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to improve **healthcare access** and support individuals with hypertension in managing their condition effectively.