05862, Peacham, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05862, Peacham, Vermont is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.76 percent of residents in 05862 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital with a distance of 12.20 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Peacham, Vermont (ZIP Code 05862)

Peacham, Vermont, a haven of rural charm, presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 05862 considers the intricate dance between transportation options and the availability of medical resources. This analysis aims to illuminate the realities of accessing care, offering insights for current residents and those considering moving to Peacham.

The foundation of any healthcare journey begins with transportation. In Peacham, the primary mode is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The winding roads, picturesque landscapes, and limited public transportation options necessitate a reliance on cars for most medical appointments.

Drive times are crucial. The nearest hospitals and specialty clinics are located in surrounding towns, demanding consideration of distance and road conditions. To reach the nearest hospital, North Country Hospital in Newport, a drive of approximately 45 miles via Interstate 91 North and Vermont Route 105 East, can take about one hour and fifteen minutes, potentially longer during inclement weather.

For primary care physicians, the closest options may be found in St. Johnsbury, roughly 15 miles away. A drive along Vermont Route 122 South and US Route 2 East typically takes around 25 to 30 minutes. This route, while shorter, can be subject to delays due to traffic or seasonal road closures.

Specialist care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, might necessitate trips to larger medical centers in Burlington or Lebanon, New Hampshire. These journeys involve significantly longer drive times, potentially exceeding two hours each way, depending on the specific clinic and route. Interstate 89 South and US Route 4 East are the primary arteries for reaching Lebanon, while Burlington is reached via Interstate 89 North.

Public transportation options are limited in Peacham. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some service in the broader region, but routes directly serving Peacham are scarce. The GMT route 87, which runs between St. Johnsbury and Montpelier, offers a potential connection, but requires a transfer and is not designed for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. GMT strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses, but the frequency of service and the necessity for transfers can create significant barriers for those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence is not as consistent as in more urban areas. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, not a practical solution for most Peacham residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer an alternative. These services, such as Rural Transportation, provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with door-to-door service. However, availability may be limited, and advance booking is usually required.

The Hypertension Score, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for long drive times, and the limited public transportation options create challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The unpredictability of ride-sharing and the need for advance planning with medical transport services further complicate the equation.

This score also considers the proximity of pharmacies and access to prescription medications. The nearest pharmacies are located in St. Johnsbury, requiring a drive of approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Timely access to medication refills is critical for managing hypertension, and any delays in transportation can have a detrimental impact on patient health.

The availability of telehealth services can mitigate some of the challenges associated with transportation. Many healthcare providers offer virtual appointments, allowing patients to consult with their doctors remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and routine check-ins. However, telehealth relies on reliable internet access, which may be a challenge in some areas of Peacham.

The Hypertension Score also acknowledges the importance of community resources and support networks. Local organizations, such as the Peacham Library and the Peacham Community House, may offer programs related to health and wellness, including educational workshops on hypertension management. These resources can provide valuable support and information for residents.

For individuals considering moving to Peacham, the Hypertension Score serves as a crucial element of the decision-making process. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs, the frequency of their medical appointments, and their ability to manage potential travel challenges.

The score also highlights the importance of planning and preparation. Individuals with hypertension should establish a clear plan for accessing healthcare, including identifying transportation options, scheduling appointments in advance, and ensuring a reliable supply of medication.

The availability of healthcare providers is also a factor. While Peacham does not have its own medical clinic, the proximity of primary care physicians in St. Johnsbury and the availability of specialty care in surrounding towns are important considerations.

The Hypertension Score for Peacham, Vermont, is not simply a numerical value. It is a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a rural environment. It underscores the importance of careful planning, proactive engagement with healthcare providers, and a willingness to navigate the challenges of transportation. The score serves as a valuable tool for residents, prospective residents, and healthcare providers, fostering a better understanding of the complexities of managing hypertension in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, community.