05478, Saint Albans, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05478, Saint Albans, Vermont is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.36 percent of residents in 05478 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwestern Medical Center Inc with a distance of 1.46 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Albans, Vermont (ZIP Code 05478)

Relocating to a new community involves a myriad of considerations, and for individuals concerned about lung cancer, **healthcare access** becomes paramount. This write-up analyzes the **transportation** landscape in and around Saint Albans, Vermont (ZIP code 05478), assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential medical facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care related to lung cancer. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone **moving to Saint Albans**.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of Saint Albans is Northwestern Medical Center (NMC), a critical access hospital offering a range of services, including oncology. NMC is conveniently located within the town, making it the most accessible option for many. For more specialized care, particularly for advanced lung cancer treatments, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in Burlington or even further afield.

**Driving to Care: The Road Ahead**

The most common mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in Saint Albans is by car. The town is strategically positioned near several major roadways, facilitating relatively easy travel to medical facilities. From any point within ZIP code 05478, reaching NMC is typically a short drive, often taking less than 10 minutes.

For specialized care, the journey becomes more complex. The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, approximately 40 miles south, is a major referral center for advanced cancer treatments. The most direct route involves taking Interstate 89 (I-89) south. The drive time to UVMMC can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. The route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Another option for accessing care is to travel to the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, which is approximately 120 miles south. This journey involves taking I-89 south to US Route 4 east. The drive time to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center is approximately two and a half hours.

It is crucial for individuals considering **moving to Saint Albans** to factor in these drive times, especially when dealing with frequent appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. The availability of reliable personal vehicles and the ability to drive safely, regardless of weather conditions, are essential for maintaining consistent **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public **transportation** options in Saint Albans and the surrounding area are limited compared to larger urban centers. Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service within Franklin County, offering a crucial link for those without personal vehicles. However, the routes and schedules may not always align perfectly with medical appointments.

The primary GMT route serving Saint Albans is Route 10, which connects the town to Burlington. This route operates on a limited schedule, with fewer trips on weekends and evenings. While Route 10 does provide a direct connection to Burlington, the travel time is significantly longer than driving, often taking over two hours.

The buses operated by GMT are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the frequency of service and the lengthy travel times on Route 10 can pose challenges for those needing frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Routes to Care**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Saint Albans area, offering another option for accessing healthcare. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical facilities.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and luggage. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local companies and national brands.

The cost of medical **transportation** services can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the specific provider. It is essential for individuals to research and compare prices and services to find the most suitable option.

**Assessing the Lung Cancer Score**

The **Lung Cancer Score** for Saint Albans, Vermont (ZIP code 05478) is influenced by a combination of factors. While NMC offers local care, the need for specialized treatments often necessitates travel to Burlington or beyond. The availability of reliable **transportation** is critical for ensuring timely **healthcare access**.

The score is moderately impacted by the limited public transit options. While GMT provides a valuable service, the infrequent schedules and lengthy travel times can be a significant barrier. The availability of ride-sharing services offers an alternative, but their reliability and cost are concerns. Medical **transportation** services provide a more specialized solution, but the cost must be considered.

The **Lung Cancer Score** is also affected by the weather. Vermont winters can be harsh, impacting road conditions and increasing travel times. Individuals considering **moving to Saint Albans** should be prepared for potential disruptions to **transportation** during the winter months.

Overall, Saint Albans offers a reasonable level of **healthcare access** for lung cancer patients, but it is not without its challenges. Residents need to consider the drive times to specialized facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. Careful planning and consideration of these factors are essential for ensuring timely and consistent access to care. The ability to drive, or to have access to reliable **transportation**, is a crucial factor in determining the quality of life for someone diagnosed with lung cancer.