05669, Roxbury, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05669, Roxbury, Vermont is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.37 percent of residents in 05669 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Central Vermont Medical Center with a distance of 13.25 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Roxbury, Vermont (ZIP Code 05669)

The air in Roxbury, Vermont, is crisp, the Green Mountains a majestic backdrop. But beyond the idyllic scenery lies the pressing reality of healthcare access, a critical factor for residents, especially those facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 05669, examining the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing vital medical care. This is particularly crucial for individuals considering moving to Roxbury, Vermont, as their health needs must be carefully considered.

The primary concern is the distance to specialized medical facilities. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Burlington, Vermont, or Lebanon, New Hampshire, both requiring significant travel. The most direct route to Burlington involves navigating Route 12A, a winding road that connects Roxbury to Route 89, a major north-south thoroughfare. This drive, typically taking around an hour, is subject to weather conditions, especially during Vermont's harsh winters. Snow and ice can dramatically increase travel times and pose significant safety risks, impacting the ability to receive timely treatment.

Alternatively, traveling to Lebanon, New Hampshire, involves taking Route 12A south to Route 107, then connecting to Interstate 89 south. This journey, usually about an hour and fifteen minutes, offers a more direct route but still faces the same weather-related obstacles. Both routes necessitate careful planning and reliance on reliable transportation, making the availability of alternatives paramount.

Public transportation options in Roxbury are limited. Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some service, but the routes serving the area are infrequent and may not directly connect to major medical centers. The specific routes and schedules fluctuate, so meticulous research is required to determine the most viable options. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and accessible stops is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. This is a significant consideration for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, which can often impact physical capabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. Demand is often lower in rural areas, leading to longer wait times and potentially higher fares. This presents a significant hurdle for patients who may need frequent trips to and from medical appointments, potentially impacting their financial stability and quality of life.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they can be expensive, and eligibility criteria may apply. The availability of these services and the associated costs should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access in Roxbury.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Roxbury must incorporate the challenges of transportation. The remoteness of the area, coupled with the limited public transportation options, creates significant barriers to healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, which can be affected by weather, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport services, further exacerbate these challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Roxbury, a thorough evaluation of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. The ability to secure reliable transportation to and from medical appointments is paramount. This includes considering the availability of family or friends to assist, the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport services, and the impact of weather conditions on travel times.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also underscores the importance of community support and advocacy. Efforts to improve public transportation, expand ride-sharing services, and increase the availability of medical transport options are essential. Furthermore, initiatives that promote telehealth and remote monitoring can help bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly for patients living in rural areas.

The quality of life for residents of Roxbury, Vermont, hinges on their ability to access essential healthcare services. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the complex interplay between transportation, healthcare access, and the overall well-being of the community. By understanding the challenges and advocating for solutions, Roxbury can strive to create a healthcare environment that supports all its residents, including those facing the difficult journey of a lung cancer diagnosis.

The accessibility of healthcare in Roxbury, Vermont, is a multifaceted issue. While the scenic beauty of the area is undeniable, the distance to specialized medical facilities and the limited transportation options create significant challenges. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone considering moving to Roxbury, especially those with pre-existing health conditions. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical tool for assessing healthcare access and advocating for improvements in the community.