05036, Brookfield, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05036, Brookfield, Vermont is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.74 percent of residents in 05036 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gifford Medical Center with a distance of 9.15 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brookfield, Vermont (ZIP Code 05036)

The crisp air of Brookfield, Vermont (ZIP Code 05036), holds a certain allure. Rolling hills, a close-knit community, and a slower pace of life beckon those seeking respite. However, when considering a move, particularly for individuals with or at risk of lung cancer, a crucial element often overlooked is **healthcare access**. This write-up explores the nuances of navigating the **transportation** landscape in and around Brookfield, assessing its impact on a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score." This score, though not a formal medical metric, serves as a practical guide to understanding the challenges and opportunities in accessing vital cancer care.

Brookfield's geographical isolation is a double-edged sword. While contributing to its tranquility, it also presents hurdles in terms of **healthcare access**. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating careful consideration of **transportation** options. The "Lung Cancer Score" will weigh factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries connecting Brookfield to the broader world are Vermont Route 12 and Vermont Route 14. These roads, while scenic, can become congested during peak hours or treacherous during Vermont's harsh winters. Reaching the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, a leading cancer treatment facility, typically involves a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily via Interstate 89.

This drive time, while manageable, could be significantly impacted by adverse weather conditions, potentially delaying crucial appointments. For individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the physical demands of such a commute, coupled with treatment side effects, can be substantial.

The University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, another prominent cancer care provider, is roughly a 1 hour and 45-minute drive, largely via Interstate 89. This longer distance further complicates **healthcare access**, especially for frequent appointments.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will therefore assign a lower value to drive times exceeding one hour, recognizing the potential for increased patient burden and the need for reliable **transportation**.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Brookfield are extremely limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus services in the region, but routes serving Brookfield are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to larger towns like Randolph and Barre. These routes are not specifically designed to facilitate medical appointments and often involve multiple transfers, making them impractical for patients with mobility issues or those requiring timely access to care.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, while mandated, may be limited on certain routes, posing a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the lack of robust public **transportation** options, assigning a low value due to the limited accessibility and potential for significant delays.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their reliability and availability in rural areas like Brookfield can be unpredictable. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could also add to the financial burden of accessing care.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized patient **transportation** providers, offer a more reliable option for individuals requiring assistance. However, these services can be costly and may require pre-booking, potentially limiting flexibility in scheduling appointments.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability of ride-sharing services, but it will place greater emphasis on the accessibility and affordability of medical **transportation** options. Researching and identifying reputable medical **transportation** providers is crucial for individuals considering a move to Brookfield.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Framework:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Brookfield (ZIP Code 05036) will be based on a weighted average of the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Cancer Center (Weight: 40%):** Shorter drive times receive a higher score.
* **Public Transit Availability and Accessibility (Weight: 20%):** The presence of frequent, ADA-compliant routes receives a higher score.
* **Ride-Sharing Service Reliability (Weight: 10%):** Consistent availability and reasonable pricing receive a higher score.
* **Medical Transportation Options (Weight: 30%):** The availability of affordable, reliable medical **transportation** services receives a higher score.

**Moving to Brookfield: A Balanced Perspective:**

Brookfield offers a unique quality of life. However, for individuals with or at risk of lung cancer, a comprehensive assessment of **healthcare access** is paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for this assessment, highlighting the challenges and opportunities associated with **transportation** in the area.

Before making a move, prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of cancer care providers, medical **transportation** services, and the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times. Engaging with local healthcare providers and support groups can also provide valuable insights into navigating the **healthcare access** landscape.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Brookfield is a personal one. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this "Lung Cancer Score" write-up, individuals can make informed choices that prioritize their health and well-being while embracing the charm of this Vermont community. The beauty of the area is undeniable, but the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** must be factored into the equation, ensuring that the move is not only desirable but also sustainable from a health perspective.