05846, Island Pond, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05846, Island Pond, Vermont is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.21 percent of residents in 05846 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 20.35 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in Island Pond, Vermont (ZIP Code 05846)

The quaint town of Island Pond, nestled in the heart of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering **healthcare access**, especially for residents managing hypertension. This analysis, focusing on transportation options, aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which individuals can reach necessary medical appointments and services. For those **moving to Island Pond**, this information is crucial in understanding the practicalities of maintaining their health.

The score will factor in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of the **transportation** landscape. The goal is to empower residents, particularly those with hypertension, to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The primary factor influencing **healthcare access** in Island Pond is its relative isolation. The town is surrounded by vast stretches of forest and rolling hills, making travel a necessity for most medical needs. The nearest significant healthcare facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics, are located in larger towns and cities, often requiring significant travel time.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare. The primary route out of Island Pond is Route 105, a winding two-lane road that connects the town to the larger regional network. Heading east, Route 105 leads to Canaan, approximately a 20-minute drive, where basic medical services might be available. Further east, Route 105 merges with US Route 2, a major east-west thoroughfare, providing access to larger towns like St. Johnsbury (approximately a 1-hour drive) and Montpelier (approximately a 2-hour drive). These locations offer a wider array of medical specialists, hospitals, and advanced care facilities.

Westbound on Route 105, you can reach Derby (approximately a 30-minute drive) and Newport (approximately a 45-minute drive). These towns also offer healthcare options, though generally less comprehensive than those found in St. Johnsbury or Montpelier. The condition of these roads, especially during the harsh Vermont winters, can significantly impact drive times and safety, adding another layer of complexity to the **healthcare access** equation.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Island Pond. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some regional bus services, but these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Investigating GMT routes and schedules is essential for those without personal vehicles. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations, directly impacting their **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some Vermont communities, but their presence in Island Pond is less certain. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is generally lower in rural areas. Residents may need to rely on pre-arranged rides or local taxi services, if available. The reliability of these services can be a significant concern, particularly for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services are crucial for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of **transportation**. Several medical transport providers operate in Vermont, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) companies. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis centers, and other healthcare facilities. However, availability and cost can vary significantly, impacting the overall "Hypertension Score."

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the availability of telehealth services. Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring. The quality of internet connectivity in Island Pond is a critical factor, as reliable internet access is essential for participating in telehealth appointments.

For those **moving to Island Pond**, understanding the limitations of **transportation** is vital. Individuals with hypertension need to plan their healthcare journeys carefully, considering factors such as weather conditions, appointment scheduling, and the availability of support networks.

The "Hypertension Score" will also incorporate factors related to prescription refills. Access to pharmacies in Island Pond and surrounding towns is essential for managing hypertension. The availability of mail-order prescriptions and pharmacy delivery services can also impact the score, particularly for individuals with limited mobility.

The score will also consider the availability of community resources and support services. Local health centers, community organizations, and senior centers may offer transportation assistance, health education programs, and other resources that can support individuals managing hypertension.

The evaluation of the "Hypertension Score" will be a dynamic process. The score will be updated periodically to reflect changes in **transportation** options, healthcare services, and community resources. The goal is to provide residents of Island Pond with the most up-to-date information possible, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The final "Hypertension Score" will be a composite measure, considering all the factors discussed above. It will provide a clear and concise assessment of the ease with which residents of Island Pond can access the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension effectively. The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better **healthcare access**.

The "Hypertension Score" is more than just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. It highlights the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access** in a rural setting and provides a framework for addressing these issues.

For those **moving to Island Pond**, understanding the "Hypertension Score" is an essential step in ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining optimal health. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, community engagement, and a willingness to embrace the available resources.

The "Hypertension Score" is a tool that empowers individuals to take control of their health, navigate the complexities of **transportation** in a rural environment, and thrive in the beautiful, yet sometimes challenging, landscape of Island Pond, Vermont. It is a testament to the resilience of the community and its commitment to ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they deserve.