05077, Tunbridge, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05077, Tunbridge, Vermont is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.56 percent of residents in 05077 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gifford Medical Center with a distance of 9.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Tunbridge, Vermont (ZIP Code 05077)

The crisp Vermont air, the rolling hills, and the tight-knit community of Tunbridge (ZIP Code 05077) offer a bucolic charm that draws many. Yet, beneath the idyllic surface lies a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move: **healthcare access**. For residents, particularly those at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer, the ability to reach timely and effective medical care is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on healthcare access within and from Tunbridge.

The score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. It aims to illuminate the realities of navigating healthcare, a crucial factor when deciding on **moving to Tunbridge**. The ultimate goal is to empower potential residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Tunbridge, a rural community, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** solutions. Driving is the primary mode of travel for most residents.

The primary routes to consider are those leading to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, a leading regional healthcare provider. From Tunbridge, the most direct route involves taking Vermont Route 113 East to Interstate 89 South. The drive, covering approximately 45 miles, typically takes around an hour, but can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions. During winter months, when snow and ice are common, travel times can easily double, posing a considerable challenge for individuals requiring urgent medical attention.

Another option involves taking Vermont Route 110 South to Interstate 91 South, then connecting to Interstate 89 North to Lebanon. This route is slightly longer, roughly 55 miles, and may take a similar amount of time. However, it offers an alternative in case of road closures or heavy traffic on the primary route. The condition of these highways and roads, especially during adverse weather, directly impacts the **healthcare access** available to Tunbridge residents.

Public **transportation** options are limited in rural Vermont. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) operates a bus route, but its service to Tunbridge is infrequent and primarily focuses on serving the towns of Randolph and White River Junction. These buses, while offering a connection to larger towns, are not designed for direct travel to Lebanon. Moreover, the GMT does not provide ADA-accessible services to Tunbridge, limiting its utility for individuals with mobility impairments.

The lack of robust public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles. For individuals unable to drive, or without access to a car, the situation becomes significantly more complex.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence in Tunbridge is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for those with urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, potentially making it an unaffordable option for some residents.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the region. However, these services are typically reserved for specific medical needs and often require prior arrangements. They may not be readily available for routine appointments or follow-up care. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and LifeNet of Vermont provide ambulance services. For non-emergency transport, local providers may offer services, but availability and cost vary.

The Lung Cancer Score for Tunbridge, therefore, reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural setting. The score is not a simple metric but a complex assessment of the factors discussed.

* **Drive Time:** The primary challenge is the distance to major medical facilities. The one-hour drive to Lebanon, under ideal conditions, is a significant time commitment, and it can be much longer during adverse weather.

* **Public Transit:** The absence of reliable public transit significantly limits access for those without personal vehicles.

* **Ride-Sharing:** The sporadic availability of ride-sharing services adds to the uncertainty.

* **Medical Transport:** While available, medical transport services are typically reserved for specific medical needs and may require pre-planning.

This analysis highlights the need for careful consideration when contemplating **moving to Tunbridge**, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those at risk for lung cancer. The **transportation** challenges can significantly impact the ability to access timely and effective healthcare.

The Lung Cancer Score encourages a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Potential residents should research their specific healthcare needs, assess their **transportation** options, and consider the potential impact of travel times and service availability. This proactive approach is crucial for ensuring access to the necessary medical care.

For individuals considering a move, it is essential to:

* **Assess Healthcare Needs:** Determine the frequency and type of medical care required.
* **Evaluate Transportation Options:** Consider the reliability and cost of personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport.
* **Research Local Resources:** Identify local healthcare providers and support services.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop an emergency plan that includes **transportation** arrangements and contact information.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a framework for understanding the realities of **healthcare access** in Tunbridge. It underscores the importance of careful planning and proactive measures to ensure that residents can receive the medical care they need, when they need it. The score is not intended to discourage a move but to empower potential residents with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, especially when **moving to Tunbridge**. It is a call to action, urging individuals to prioritize their health and plan accordingly.