05261, Pownal, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05261, Pownal, Vermont is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.56 percent of residents in 05261 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brattleboro Memorial Hospital with a distance of 34.30 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 05261

The decision to relocate, particularly to a place like Pownal, Vermont (ZIP code 05261), often involves weighing numerous factors. For those with or at risk of lung cancer, a crucial consideration is **healthcare access**, specifically the ease and reliability of **transportation** to medical facilities. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, examining the **transportation** landscape within and surrounding 05261, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-share options, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how readily available healthcare, especially for lung cancer treatment and screening, is for potential residents.

Pownal, a charming Vermont town nestled in the southwestern corner of the state, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options for accessing specialized medical care. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare **access** in this specific geographic area.

**Drive Times: The Highway to Healing**

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in and around Pownal are Interstate 91 (I-91) and Route 7. I-91, running north-south, provides access to larger medical centers in the region. Route 7, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers more localized access to healthcare facilities.

Driving to the nearest major healthcare hub, Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) in Bennington, is a crucial benchmark. The drive, primarily via Route 7, is approximately 15-20 minutes in normal traffic conditions. This is a relatively favorable commute, offering swift **access** to a comprehensive hospital with oncology services.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients might need to travel further. Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York, is approximately a 1-hour and 45-minute drive via Route 7 and I-90. This longer drive underscores the importance of reliable **transportation** options, especially for those undergoing frequent treatments.

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is another option, roughly a 2-hour and 30-minute drive, primarily via I-91. This further emphasizes the need for careful planning and consideration of potential delays due to weather or traffic. The availability of parking at these facilities is also a critical factor, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public **transportation** options in the area are limited, a common challenge in rural Vermont. The Green Mountain Community Network (GMCN) provides some bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and coverage in 05261 itself is minimal. The GMCN does offer demand-response service, which requires advance booking and is intended for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot use fixed-route services.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor for those with mobility issues. The GMCN strives to provide accessible vehicles, but the limited service frequency and potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges for patients requiring regular medical appointments. The lack of extensive public transit highlights the reliance on private **transportation** for **healthcare access** in this region.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability necessitates careful planning and potentially pre-booking rides, particularly for appointments with strict schedules.

Medical **transportation** services are available, catering specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical **transportation** providers, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other **transportation** options. They often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

**Medical Transport Brands**

* **Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) Transport:** SVMC often has its own transport services for patients within a certain radius.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Companies like Pownal Rescue Squad or Bennington Rescue Squad can provide transport, especially for emergency situations.
* **Private Medical Transport:** Companies specializing in medical transport, often offering non-emergency services.

**Moving to Pownal: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering **moving to Pownal** and managing lung cancer, the "Lung Cancer Score" suggests a mixed bag. The proximity to SVMC offers relatively easy **access** to immediate care. However, the reliance on private **transportation**, the limited public transit options, and the potential for longer drives to specialized centers necessitate careful planning and consideration of **transportation** needs.

The availability of ride-share services and medical **transportation** providers offers crucial support, but their reliability and cost should be factored into the decision-making process. Potential residents should proactively investigate these options, ensuring they align with their specific medical needs and financial resources.

**Conclusion: A Call for Proactive Planning**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 05261 highlights the importance of proactive planning regarding **healthcare access**. While Pownal offers a desirable lifestyle, those with or at risk of lung cancer must carefully assess their **transportation** needs. This includes researching local medical **transportation** services, understanding the limitations of public transit, and considering the reliability of ride-share options. By prioritizing **transportation** considerations, potential residents can make informed decisions about **moving to Pownal** and ensure they can readily access the medical care they need. The key to successful **healthcare access** in this area is a combination of careful planning, resourcefulness, and a willingness to explore all available **transportation** avenues.