05060, Randolph, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05060, Randolph, Vermont is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.22 percent of residents in 05060 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gifford Medical Center with a distance of 1.33 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Randolph, Vermont (ZIP Code 05060)

The crisp Vermont air, the rolling hills, the quintessential small-town charm – Randolph, Vermont (ZIP Code 05060), offers a lifestyle many find idyllic. However, when considering a move, particularly for those with existing health concerns or a predisposition to them, the reality of healthcare access demands careful scrutiny. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the crucial element of transportation, and its impact on accessing timely and effective lung cancer care. The score will weigh the accessibility of diagnostic services, treatment facilities, and follow-up care, all within the context of Randolph's unique geographical position.

The score isn't a definitive prediction of health outcomes, but a critical analysis of the transportation landscape, illuminating the potential challenges and advantages faced by individuals needing lung cancer care. This assessment considers factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture, empowering informed decision-making for those considering a move to Randolph or already residing within the ZIP code.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be presented as a relative measure, reflecting the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing care. A higher score signifies greater accessibility, while a lower score indicates more significant transportation hurdles. This score is subjective and intended as a tool for personal evaluation, acknowledging that individual needs and circumstances vary widely.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

Randolph, nestled in the heart of Vermont, is a community that relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary access routes to healthcare facilities are the roadways, and the drive times are central to the "Lung Cancer Score."

The nearest hospital with comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is Gifford Medical Center in Randolph itself. This proximity earns Randolph a significant advantage. However, specialized services, such as advanced surgical oncology or clinical trials, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers.

For more specialized care, the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, approximately 65 miles north, is a primary destination. The journey typically involves taking **Vermont Route 12** north to **Interstate 89** (I-89). This drive, under ideal conditions, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. The drive time is crucial, especially for patients needing urgent care or frequent appointments. The weather, notorious for its unpredictability in Vermont, can significantly impact these travel times, particularly during winter months.

Another viable option is Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, approximately 40 miles to the east. The most direct route involves traveling east on **Vermont Route 66** to **Interstate 89** (I-89) south. This drive can take approximately 50 minutes to an hour, making it a slightly more accessible option than Burlington.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the accessibility of these drive times, considering both the distance and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic. The proximity to Gifford Medical Center will positively impact the score, while the longer distances to Burlington and Lebanon will present challenges.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation in Randolph is limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service in the area, but the routes are infrequent and primarily serve local communities.

The GMT route that serves Randolph is the **Route 80**, which connects Randolph with Barre and Montpelier. This route offers limited service, with buses running on a set schedule that may not align with medical appointment times. The route does not directly connect Randolph with Burlington or Lebanon, making it unsuitable for accessing those healthcare facilities.

ADA accessibility is available on GMT buses, which is essential for patients with mobility limitations. However, the limited frequency and the lack of direct routes to specialized cancer care centers significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score." Public transit, in this context, contributes minimally to the overall accessibility of care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Randolph area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as the American Cancer Society's Road to Recovery program, may be available to provide transportation for cancer patients. These services can be invaluable, but their availability may be subject to eligibility requirements and scheduling constraints.

Other medical transportation brands, such as MedRide and LifeLine Ambulance, offer non-emergency medical transport. These services can provide reliable transportation to medical appointments, but they come at a cost, and prior arrangements are usually necessary.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, recognizing their potential to bridge the transportation gap but also acknowledging their limitations.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for Randolph (ZIP Code 05060)**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Randolph, Vermont (ZIP Code 05060) is **moderate**.

**Strengths:** The proximity of Gifford Medical Center offers convenient access to basic cancer care. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides some alternatives for those without personal vehicles.

**Weaknesses:** The limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care centers in Burlington and Lebanon pose significant challenges. Drive times to these facilities can be substantial, and weather conditions can further complicate travel. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services are also factors to consider.

**Recommendations:**

* Individuals considering a move to Randolph with a history of lung cancer or a high risk of developing it should prioritize access to a reliable personal vehicle.
* Thoroughly investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* Explore the potential for telemedicine appointments, which can reduce the need for travel.
* Consider the impact of weather conditions on travel times and plan accordingly.
* Contact the American Cancer Society or other cancer support organizations for assistance with transportation and other resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a dynamic assessment, and the specific needs of each individual will vary. However, this analysis provides a valuable framework for evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing lung cancer care in Randolph, Vermont. When considering moving to Randolph, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.