05032, Bethel, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05032, Bethel, Vermont is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.17 percent of residents in 05032 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gifford Medical Center with a distance of 8.54 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bethel, Vermont (ZIP Code 05032)

The crisp air of Vermont, the rolling hills, and the tight-knit community of Bethel – a town that beckons with a promise of tranquility. But for residents, particularly those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic facade can obscure a stark reality: the intricate dance of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This write-up aims to illuminate the landscape of medical care within and surrounding ZIP code 05032, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment that considers the challenges and opportunities of getting to vital treatments. For those **moving to Bethel**, understanding these nuances is crucial.

The primary consideration, of course, is the availability of specialized lung cancer care. While Bethel itself offers primary care and some basic medical services, comprehensive oncology treatment, including radiation therapy and specialized surgery, necessitates travel. This is where the "Lung Cancer Score" begins its evaluation, focusing on the practicalities of getting to these crucial appointments.

The most direct route to advanced care often involves a car. From Bethel, the journey to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, New Hampshire, a regional hub for cancer treatment, is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive typically utilizes Interstate 89 (I-89) North, a major artery, and then follows Route 120. The roads are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can introduce significant delays, potentially doubling or tripling drive times. The potential for adverse weather conditions is a significant factor in the "Lung Cancer Score."

Another option is the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont. This trip is longer, around 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily via I-89 North. This longer distance necessitates a higher "Lung Cancer Score" penalty, as it increases the burden on patients, particularly those experiencing fatigue or mobility limitations.

Public **transportation** options are limited in this rural area. The Stagecoach Transportation Services operates a bus route that services Bethel, but its routes and schedules are not designed for frequent trips to major medical centers. The service is designed for local errands and travel. The frequency of these buses, coupled with the need for transfers, makes them a less-than-ideal option for cancer patients needing regular treatments. ADA accessibility is a consideration, but the limited route options significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be sparse in rural areas, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather. The expense of frequent ride-sharing trips can also be a significant financial burden, further impacting the "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and FirstLight Home Care provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be pre-booked and offer door-to-door assistance, alleviating some of the stress associated with travel. However, these services come with a cost, which can be substantial, and their availability may be limited depending on demand. The "Lung Cancer Score" acknowledges the value of these services but also recognizes their potential financial limitations.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support services in the Bethel area. The closer a patient is to support groups, cancer centers, and pharmacies, the better. Bethel has a small community, and while it has primary care, it lacks a comprehensive cancer center. This means that patients will need to travel for all specialized care. This distance to care is a significant factor in the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it is a holistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities for lung cancer patients in Bethel. It considers the distance to treatment centers, the reliability of **transportation** options, the availability of support services, and the potential financial burdens.

The score is dynamic, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of healthcare and **transportation**. The construction of new roads, the expansion of public **transportation** routes, and the introduction of new medical **transportation** services can all impact the score.

For individuals **moving to Bethel**, the "Lung Cancer Score" should be a key consideration. It is essential to understand the realities of **healthcare access** in the area, particularly if you or a loved one has a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions.

The score is not intended to discourage people from living in Bethel. Instead, it aims to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It underscores the importance of planning, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach to managing **healthcare access** in a rural setting.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Bethel, Vermont (ZIP code 05032) is influenced by several factors. The distance to DHMC, the primary cancer treatment center, is manageable, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related delays are significant drawbacks. The limited public **transportation** options and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services further complicate the picture. The lack of local specialized cancer care and support services adds to the challenges.

The score, therefore, reflects a moderate level of difficulty in accessing lung cancer care. While the situation is not dire, it requires careful planning, financial preparedness, and a willingness to navigate the complexities of rural **transportation** and **healthcare access**. For those **moving to Bethel**, understanding this score is paramount.