05201, Bennington, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05201, Bennington, Vermont is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.73 percent of residents in 05201 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grace Cottage Hospital with a distance of 26.79 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05201

The air in Bennington, Vermont, ZIP code 05201, carries the crisp scent of the Green Mountains, a backdrop to life's daily rhythms. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, that pristine air can become a source of anxiety, especially when the journey to healthcare involves navigating the complexities of transportation. This write-up aims to assess the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare in 05201, considering transportation options and their impact on the patient experience. We will evaluate the challenges and opportunities for those seeking timely and effective care, a critical factor in survival and quality of life.

The primary healthcare provider in Bennington is Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC), located at 100 Hospital Drive. This is the central hub for cancer care, offering diagnostic services, treatment options, and support programs. However, the distance and mode of transportation to SVMC and other specialized facilities can significantly influence a patient's lung cancer score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing care.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in Bennington. From various points within 05201, the drive to SVMC is generally straightforward. Residents in the town center can expect a drive of under 10 minutes, primarily utilizing **Main Street (Route 7A)** and **Hospital Drive**. Those residing in more rural areas, such as Pownal or Shaftsbury, might experience a drive of 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location. This longer drive necessitates the use of **Route 7** and potentially secondary roads, increasing the potential for delays.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation presents a different set of considerations. The Green Mountain Community Network (GMCN) provides bus services in Bennington County. Route 100, the primary route serving Bennington, connects various points within the town, including stops near SVMC. However, the frequency of buses, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be limited. This can create challenges for patients requiring regular appointments or those facing unexpected emergencies. The GMCN does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bennington, offering another transportation alternative. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also become a significant financial burden for patients undergoing long-term treatment. Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which might not always align with urgent medical needs.

The availability of transportation impacts the patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans, attend follow-up appointments, and access supportive care services. Delays or difficulties in transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress, all of which can negatively affect outcomes. This is especially critical for lung cancer patients, who often require frequent visits for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other treatments.

Beyond SVMC, patients may need to travel to specialized cancer centers or specialists located outside of Bennington. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are in Albany, New York, and Lebanon, New Hampshire, requiring significantly longer travel times. These trips necessitate driving on **Route 7** and potentially **Interstate 91** or **Interstate 87**, depending on the destination. The travel time to these centers can range from 1.5 to 3 hours, placing a considerable strain on patients and their caregivers.

The lung cancer score for 05201 must also consider the availability of supportive care services. These services include support groups, counseling, and palliative care, which can significantly improve the patient's quality of life. Access to these services often requires transportation to different locations, adding to the complexity of the patient's journey. The availability of these services within Bennington, or the ease of access via transportation, directly impacts the overall lung cancer score.

The experience of a lung cancer patient in 05201 is inextricably linked to transportation. The ease of access to SVMC, the limitations of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing, and the potential for long-distance travel to specialized centers all contribute to the overall score. The challenges are amplified for those without personal vehicles, individuals with mobility limitations, and those facing financial constraints.

For those considering moving to Bennington, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The proximity to SVMC is a significant advantage, but the limitations of public transit and the potential for long-distance travel should be carefully considered. Planning for transportation needs, including potential reliance on family, friends, or medical transport services, is essential.

The lung cancer score in 05201 is a dynamic measure, influenced by factors beyond the control of the individual patient. The availability of transportation options, the frequency of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the distance to specialized centers all play a role. Improving the lung cancer score requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for improved public transportation services, supporting the expansion of ride-sharing options, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport services.

The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment where transportation is not a barrier to accessing timely and effective lung cancer care. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, local government, community organizations, and the patients themselves. Only through such concerted action can we ensure that residents of 05201 have the best possible chance of surviving and thriving in the face of a lung cancer diagnosis.