05753, Middlebury, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05753, Middlebury, Vermont is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.63 percent of residents in 05753 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Porter Hospital, Inc with a distance of 1.12 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 05753

The crisp Vermont air whispers through the Green Mountains, a stark contrast to the anxieties that can grip a community facing a lung cancer diagnosis. In ZIP Code 05753, encompassing the charming town of Middlebury, access to timely and effective healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score," a composite measure reflecting the ease and efficiency of **transportation** to specialized medical facilities, a crucial factor in successful treatment and patient well-being. We’ll explore the landscape of **healthcare access**, focusing on the practicalities of getting to and from appointments, weighing options for those considering **moving to Middlebury**.

The primary healthcare provider in the area is Porter Medical Center, a vital resource located within Middlebury itself. However, specialized lung cancer care, including advanced diagnostics, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. This evaluation considers the journey to these essential facilities, factoring in both driving times and alternative modes of **transportation**.

Driving remains the dominant mode of **transportation** in this largely rural area. The primary arteries for reaching specialized care are the major highways. Heading south, Route 7 is the main thoroughfare. Traveling along Route 7, one can reach Rutland Regional Medical Center, approximately 30 miles away, a drive that typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This facility offers a comprehensive cancer center, including advanced lung cancer treatment options.

Northbound on Route 7 presents another option. Reaching the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, a more extensive facility with specialized expertise, requires a journey of roughly 60 miles. The drive, usually taking around an hour and fifteen minutes, is a significant commitment, especially for frequent appointments. The scenic beauty of the route, however, offers a small solace during a challenging time.

Smaller, more local roads also play a role. Route 125, running east-west, provides access to various points, but its winding nature and potential for seasonal closures make it less reliable for urgent medical travel. Route 30, another secondary road, offers alternative routes, but its slower speeds and potential for delays must be considered.

Public **transportation** options are limited in this region, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service, but routes within 05753 are primarily focused on local travel. While GMT offers some connections to neighboring towns, these routes may not directly reach major medical centers and often involve multiple transfers, extending travel times considerably. The availability of accessible buses, equipped with ADA features, is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent ride-share trips to distant medical centers can quickly become a financial burden, further impacting **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, provide an alternative. Companies like MedStar and other regional providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be invaluable for patients unable to drive or utilize public **transportation**. However, availability and scheduling often require advance planning, and the cost can be significant.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must weigh these factors. The proximity of Porter Medical Center provides a crucial foundation, offering immediate access to primary care and initial diagnostics. The relatively manageable drive to Rutland Regional Medical Center offers a reasonable option for specialized care. The longer journey to the University of Vermont Medical Center presents a greater challenge, particularly for frequent treatments. The limited public **transportation** options and the variability of ride-sharing services further complicate **healthcare access**. The availability of medical **transportation** services offers a crucial lifeline, but their cost and scheduling constraints must be considered.

For individuals **moving to Middlebury** or considering a move, this analysis is critical. The availability of reliable **transportation** to specialized lung cancer care facilities is a paramount concern. Prospective residents should carefully assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide **transportation**, and the financial implications of utilizing ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 05753, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of Porter Medical Center and the relatively short drive to Rutland Regional Medical Center provide a solid base, the limitations of public **transportation**, the variability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation** services create challenges. The score is further influenced by the greater distance and travel time to the University of Vermont Medical Center, a crucial center for advanced treatments.

The score would be enhanced by improvements in public **transportation**, such as expanded routes and increased frequency of service, especially those connecting to major medical centers. Subsidized ride-sharing programs for cancer patients could also significantly improve **healthcare access**. Increased awareness of and access to medical **transportation** services, along with financial assistance programs, would further bolster the score.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 05753 is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving landscape of **healthcare access** in this community. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, careful consideration of **transportation** options, and a commitment to advocating for improvements in **healthcare access** for all residents, especially those facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.