05356, West Dover, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05356, West Dover, Vermont is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.28 percent of residents in 05356 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grace Cottage Hospital with a distance of 12.48 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in West Dover (ZIP Code 05356)

The crisp mountain air of West Dover, Vermont (ZIP code 05356), offers a picturesque setting. However, the allure of this idyllic community must be weighed against practical considerations, particularly when evaluating healthcare access. For individuals concerned about lung cancer, a timely diagnosis and treatment are paramount. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for West Dover, focusing on the transportation options available to access vital healthcare services. This analysis will be crucial for anyone considering moving to West Dover, especially those with existing health concerns.

The cornerstone of assessing healthcare access in West Dover is understanding the transportation landscape. The primary mode of travel is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles to navigate the winding roads and connect with the broader healthcare network. This reliance underscores the importance of considering drive times to specialized medical facilities.

The most direct route to significant healthcare resources necessitates travel along **Vermont Route 100**, a scenic but often busy thoroughfare. This road, a lifeline for the community, connects West Dover to neighboring towns and cities. Heading north on Route 100 will eventually lead to Brattleboro, a town offering a range of medical services, including specialized care that might be needed for lung cancer. The drive to Brattleboro, depending on traffic and weather conditions, can take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes.

Alternatively, traveling south on Route 100 offers access to Wilmington and eventually Bennington. While Wilmington provides some local medical services, Bennington boasts a more comprehensive healthcare system, including a hospital with potentially advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities. The drive to Bennington, also primarily via Route 100, is approximately one hour and thirty minutes, again subject to the vagaries of Vermont weather and traffic.

**Route 9**, a major east-west highway, intersects with Route 100 in Wilmington, offering an alternative route to some healthcare facilities. This route can potentially provide faster access to certain hospitals depending on the specific location and the direction of travel. However, the road conditions, especially during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Public transportation options in West Dover are extremely limited. The area's rugged terrain and low population density make widespread public transit impractical. There are no fixed-route bus services that directly serve West Dover. This lack of public transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The absence of a reliable public transit system is a major factor in the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, the lack of public transportation means that individuals with disabilities face considerable challenges in accessing healthcare. There are no designated accessible bus routes or stations in the immediate vicinity. This lack of accessibility further diminishes the "Lung Cancer Score" for those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is not consistent. Demand is often low, and wait times can be considerable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability makes ride-sharing a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs or scheduled appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in West Dover. Ambulance services are crucial for emergencies, but their availability and response times can vary depending on the location of the nearest ambulance station and the severity of the emergency. NEMT services provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, such as doctor visits or chemotherapy sessions. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability.

Several medical transport brands operate in the region. These services include local ambulance companies and regional NEMT providers. The specific brands and their service areas should be researched to determine the most reliable options for West Dover residents. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of service required, which can be a significant financial burden for individuals with lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for West Dover is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transportation, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transport services all contribute to a lower score. This reality should be carefully considered by anyone contemplating moving to West Dover, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other health concerns.

The drive times to hospitals and specialized medical facilities, primarily via Route 100 and Route 9, are considerable. This means that accessing timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for lung cancer can be challenging. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can also create significant stress and anxiety for patients and their families.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for West Dover is not inherently negative. The beauty of the area and the close-knit community can offer significant benefits to those seeking a peaceful and supportive environment. However, potential residents must acknowledge the practical limitations regarding healthcare access. Thorough research, including detailed information about local medical providers, transportation options, and insurance coverage, is essential before making a decision about moving to West Dover. Careful planning and preparedness are critical to ensure that individuals can access the healthcare they need, when they need it.