05868, Troy, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05868, Troy, Vermont is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.00 percent of residents in 05868 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 9.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Troy, Vermont (ZIP Code 05868)

Relocating to a new community, especially when managing a health condition like hypertension, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in Troy, Vermont (ZIP Code 05868), focusing on how easily residents can reach medical appointments and pharmacies, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the community's suitability for individuals prioritizing convenient healthcare.

The core of this analysis revolves around the practicalities of getting to and from medical facilities. Effective transportation is paramount for consistent care, medication adherence, and overall well-being. The challenge lies in understanding the specific transportation options available, their reliability, and the potential barriers they present. We will explore the drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options within and around Troy, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Troy, Vermont, is a rural community, and personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The town is strategically positioned near major roadways, but distances to specialized healthcare facilities can be significant. The primary thoroughfare is Vermont Route 100, which runs north-south, connecting Troy to neighboring towns and providing access to essential services.

For routine appointments, the Northern Tier Center for Health, located in Newport (approximately 15 miles north), is a likely destination. Driving to Newport via VT-100 typically takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This is a manageable commute for regular check-ups and basic medical needs. However, the drive can be challenging during Vermont’s harsh winters.

Specialized care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, approximately 75 miles south, is a major regional hospital. The drive to Burlington involves a combination of VT-100, I-89, and local roads, and can take between 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This longer travel time presents a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent monitoring or urgent care.

Similarly, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is another option, about 80 miles south via I-91. The drive time is comparable to Burlington, also taking around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. These extended commutes highlight the importance of considering the potential impact on healthcare access when moving to Troy.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Troy are limited. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the Rural Community Transportation (RCT). RCT offers demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service operates within Orleans County, which includes Troy.

RCT's services are crucial for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. However, the need to schedule rides ahead of time can present challenges, especially for urgent medical needs or sudden changes in appointment schedules. Furthermore, the availability of transportation may be restricted by operational hours or the number of available vehicles.

RCT vehicles are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. They provide ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair accessibility. This is a critical consideration for residents with mobility limitations. However, the scheduling requirements and potential for limited service availability can still pose challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally not readily available in rural areas like Troy. The sparse population and limited demand make it difficult for these services to operate efficiently. Residents cannot rely on ride-sharing as a dependable mode of transportation for healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services are available in the region, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options.

Several medical transport companies operate in the area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs, which can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, a "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 05868 can be assessed. This score reflects the ease with which residents can access healthcare services, specifically considering the needs of individuals managing hypertension.

The score would consider several factors: drive times to primary care and specialized medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options.

Given the rural nature of Troy and the limitations of transportation, the Hypertension Score would likely be moderate. While residents have access to primary care in nearby Newport, longer travel times to specialized facilities in Burlington or Lebanon present a significant challenge. The limited public transit options and the absence of readily available ride-sharing services further restrict healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Moving to Troy with Hypertension**

For individuals considering moving to Troy with hypertension, careful planning is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the need for advance booking of medical transport services require proactive management.

Individuals should assess their ability to drive or secure reliable transportation for medical appointments. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in Newport is advisable. Exploring medical transport options and understanding their associated costs is also crucial.

Moving to Troy offers the charm of Vermont living, but it is essential to acknowledge the impact of transportation limitations on healthcare access. By carefully considering these factors and developing a comprehensive transportation plan, individuals with hypertension can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape in Troy and maintain their health and well-being. The key is proactive planning and a realistic understanding of the transportation challenges inherent in this rural environment.