05824, Concord, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05824, Concord, Vermont is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.82 percent of residents in 05824 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital with a distance of 10.67 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 05824

The crisp air of Vermont, the rolling hills, and the promise of a slower pace often beckon those seeking refuge from the hustle of city life. However, the idyllic charm of a place like ZIP Code 05824, encompassing parts of Concord, Vermont, also presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to healthcare access. This write-up, a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, delves into the intricacies of transportation options available to residents, specifically focusing on their impact on accessing medical care, a crucial factor for managing conditions like hypertension.

For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and preventative care is paramount. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape directly influences their health outcomes. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this charming corner of Vermont.

**The Road to Care: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

Concord, Vermont, while offering a tranquil environment, is geographically dispersed. The primary arteries for transportation are Interstate 91 (I-91) and US Route 2. Traveling to larger medical centers, such as those in St. Johnsbury or even further afield in Lebanon, New Hampshire, requires navigating these highways.

From the heart of Concord, a drive to Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury, a common destination for primary care and specialized services, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive primarily utilizes US Route 2 and can be relatively straightforward. However, during winter months, snow and ice can significantly impact travel times, making timely access to care more challenging.

Further specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, might necessitate a trip to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. This journey, predominantly on I-91 South, can consume approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, contingent on traffic. This longer travel time can be a significant barrier for individuals with hypertension, particularly during acute episodes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 05824 are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some services within the region, but its routes and frequency are not designed to cater to the specific needs of frequent medical appointments.

The GMT Route 89, which serves the St. Johnsbury area, might offer some potential for accessing healthcare. However, its schedule is not designed for the frequency required for hypertension management, potentially requiring patients to arrange for alternative transportation to and from bus stops. ADA accessibility features on GMT buses are available, but the overall reliance on public transit for healthcare access in this area is not ideal.

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

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Concord is inconsistent and can be unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of consistent ride-sharing availability presents a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by area ambulance services or specialized transportation companies, provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring stretcher transport. These services are often pre-arranged and can be costly, but they are essential for ensuring access to care when other options are unavailable.

**Medical Transport Brands**

The availability of specific medical transport brands in the area is important to consider. Local ambulance services, such as Concord Ambulance, are the primary providers for emergency transport. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services are also available, but their coverage area and availability can vary. Researching and understanding the options offered by these services is vital for residents with hypertension.

**The Hypertension Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP Code 05824 reflects the complex interplay of these transportation factors. While the drive times to nearby medical facilities are relatively manageable, the limitations of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on potentially costly medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Concord or currently residing there, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of reliable transportation options is essential. Those with hypertension must proactively plan for their healthcare needs, considering factors like appointment scheduling, medication refills, and emergency preparedness.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For residents of ZIP Code 05824, a proactive approach to healthcare access is crucial. This includes establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician, understanding the availability of local medical transport services, and exploring options for assistance with transportation, such as volunteer driver programs or community resources.

The local community could also benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access, such as advocating for increased public transit services, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting the expansion of telehealth services.

**Moving to Concord: A Balanced Perspective**

The decision to move to Concord, Vermont, or any rural area, should be made with a clear understanding of the challenges associated with healthcare access. While the tranquility and beauty of the area are undeniable, individuals with hypertension must carefully weigh the benefits against the potential difficulties in accessing timely and consistent medical care.

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP Code 05824 is not a definitive rating but rather a starting point for a more in-depth assessment. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in managing chronic conditions and highlights the need for proactive planning and community support to ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.