05652, Eden, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05652, Eden, Vermont is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.20 percent of residents in 05652 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Copley Hospital with a distance of 10.28 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Eden (ZIP Code 05652)

The crisp Vermont air, the rolling hills, the promise of a simpler life – Eden, Vermont (ZIP Code 05652) beckons. But beneath the idyllic surface lies a critical consideration: access to healthcare, especially for those facing the formidable challenge of lung cancer. This write-up unveils the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** in Eden, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment to help prospective residents understand the challenges and opportunities. This is crucial for those **moving to Eden**, particularly if they have pre-existing health conditions.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a composite metric reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching essential cancer care facilities. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The higher the score, the better the access. We'll analyze the key factors influencing this score for Eden residents.

**Driving the Distance: The Road to Care**

Eden's remoteness is a double-edged sword. The tranquility is alluring, but the lack of immediate access to specialized medical care presents a significant hurdle. The primary route out of Eden is via Vermont Route 100, a scenic but often winding road. This road connects to Vermont Route 118, which leads towards larger towns and eventually to hospitals.

The nearest hospital with oncology services is Copley Hospital in Morrisville, approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive typically involves navigating Route 100 south and then onto Route 15, a relatively straightforward route. However, during winter months, the roads can be treacherous, potentially extending travel times significantly.

For more advanced treatment, including radiation therapy or specialized surgical procedures, patients often need to travel to larger hospitals in Burlington (University of Vermont Medical Center) or Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. These trips are considerably longer. The drive to Burlington, utilizing Interstate 89, is roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Dartmouth-Hitchcock, accessible via Interstate 91, is approximately a 2.5-3 hour journey. These extended drive times can be exhausting for patients undergoing treatment and require careful planning.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Eden are extremely limited. There is no local bus service directly serving the town. The Lamoille County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some service in the surrounding area, but its routes are infrequent and do not offer direct access to major hospitals. The LCTA does have some routes that connect to Morrisville, but these are not designed for medical appointments and require multiple transfers, increasing travel time and complexity.

Furthermore, the LCTA's services are not fully ADA compliant, which can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. This lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the "Lung Cancer Score" for Eden residents. Relying on public transit for regular cancer care appointments is simply not a practical option for most.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their presence is sporadic, especially in a rural location like Eden. Availability is highly dependent on driver availability, which can be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes ride-sharing an unreliable solution for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are a critical component of the healthcare landscape. These services are available in Eden, but their cost can be substantial, and they require prior arrangements. The availability of NEMT is crucial for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their illness or treatment side effects. However, the reliance on these services also underscores the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural setting.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for Eden (05652)**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Eden (05652) is moderate, leaning towards the lower end. The score is negatively impacted by the limited public transit options and the distance to specialized medical facilities. While driving is the primary mode of transport, the long travel times and potential for challenging weather conditions pose significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing is inconsistent, and the reliance on medical **transportation** adds to the cost and complexity of accessing care.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

For individuals considering **moving to Eden** and who have a history of lung cancer or are at high risk, careful consideration of the following is essential:

* **Proximity to Care:** Assess the proximity to hospitals with oncology services and the feasibility of regular travel.
* **Transportation Planning:** Develop a detailed **transportation** plan that accounts for various scenarios, including inclement weather and potential mobility limitations.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure adequate insurance coverage for medical **transportation** services.
* **Support Network:** Establish a strong support network of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide assistance with **transportation** and other needs.
* **Telehealth:** Explore the availability of telehealth services for consultations and follow-up appointments to reduce the need for frequent travel.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Eden offers a unique lifestyle, but the challenges of **healthcare access**, particularly for those with serious illnesses like lung cancer, cannot be ignored. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding these challenges. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this write-up, prospective residents can make informed decisions and proactively plan for their healthcare needs. While the beauty of Eden is undeniable, the realities of **transportation** and healthcare access demand careful consideration, especially for those seeking a new life with complex medical needs.