05736, Center Rutland, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05736, Center Rutland, Vermont is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.18 percent of residents in 05736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rutland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.59 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05736**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access in Center Rutland, Vermont (ZIP code 05736), is crucial for residents, especially those managing hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering transportation options, drive times, and healthcare facility accessibility. It aims to inform individuals considering *moving to Center Rutland* about the practicalities of receiving timely medical care.

The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services, acknowledging the critical role of *transportation* in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Factors include the availability of public transit, the efficiency of roadways, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the existence of specialized medical transport.

Center Rutland, nestled in the heart of Vermont, presents unique *healthcare access* challenges due to its rural setting. The community is served primarily by Rutland Regional Medical Center, located approximately five miles away. This proximity is a significant advantage, but the effectiveness of reaching the hospital depends heavily on available transportation.

**Roadway Accessibility and Drive Times**

The primary thoroughfare connecting Center Rutland to Rutland is US Route 7, a well-maintained highway offering a relatively direct route. Driving time to Rutland Regional Medical Center along Route 7 typically ranges from 10 to 15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Traffic congestion is generally minimal in this area, enhancing the reliability of these drive times.

Alternative routes exist, primarily utilizing local roads such as West Rutland Road and East Pittsford Road. These roads offer scenic routes, but they may add time to the commute due to lower speed limits and potential for winding sections. During winter months, road conditions can be affected by snow and ice, potentially increasing travel times and posing safety concerns.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transit in Center Rutland is provided by Green Mountain Transit (GMT). While GMT serves the broader Rutland County, the frequency and coverage within Center Rutland are limited. The specific routes serving Center Rutland and their schedules should be carefully reviewed to assess their suitability for healthcare appointments.

Bus routes, while available, may not operate with the frequency or schedule flexibility required for timely medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on GMT buses is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. Information regarding ADA accessibility, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating, should be readily available through GMT.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the Rutland area, but their presence in Center Rutland can be inconsistent. The availability of these services is influenced by driver density and demand. Reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments requires careful planning and pre-booking, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, are another consideration. These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who cannot drive or lack other transportation options. Researching the availability of medical transport providers in the Rutland area is crucial.

**Healthcare Facility Accessibility**

The accessibility of Rutland Regional Medical Center is a critical factor. The hospital offers comprehensive services, including cardiology, primary care, and emergency services. The hospital’s location, approximately five miles from Center Rutland, is generally convenient.

However, it is essential to consider the hospital's parking facilities, patient drop-off areas, and the availability of assistive devices for individuals with mobility challenges. Information regarding these features should be readily accessible on the hospital's website or through its patient services department.

**Calculating the Hypertension Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for Center Rutland (ZIP code 05736) is a composite measure reflecting the ease of access to healthcare services, specifically considering the challenges of managing hypertension. The score is determined by weighting the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The primary factor, with shorter drive times receiving higher scores.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of GMT services.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The consistency and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and affordability of medical transport providers.
* **Healthcare Facility Accessibility:** The ease of navigating the hospital, including parking, drop-off areas, and assistive devices.

Each factor is assigned a numerical value, and the overall score is calculated based on these weighted values. The higher the score, the better the healthcare access.

**Recommendations for Improving the Score**

To enhance the "Hypertension Score" and improve healthcare access for Center Rutland residents, several recommendations are pertinent:

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Advocate for increased GMT service frequency, extended route coverage, and improved ADA accessibility.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Educate residents about the availability and limitations of ride-sharing services.
* **Support Medical Transport Providers:** Encourage the growth and affordability of medical transport services.
* **Improve Road Safety:** Maintain roadways to minimize travel time and improve safety, especially during winter.
* **Patient Education:** Provide patients with information on all transportation options.

**Conclusion**

The "Hypertension Score" for Center Rutland (ZIP code 05736) reflects the current state of healthcare access, specifically considering the challenges of managing hypertension. While the proximity of Rutland Regional Medical Center is advantageous, residents must carefully consider *transportation* options. By assessing the drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, individuals can gain a clearer understanding of the ease with which they can reach healthcare facilities.

This assessment is particularly relevant for those *moving to Center Rutland*, as it provides essential information for planning and making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. By addressing the recommendations outlined above, the community can work toward improving the "Hypertension Score" and ensuring that all residents have timely and reliable access to essential medical care.