05832, East Burke, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05832, East Burke, Vermont is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.19 percent of residents in 05832 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital with a distance of 10.97 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05832 (East Burke, Vermont)**

The air in East Burke, Vermont (ZIP Code 05832), is crisp, carrying the scent of pine and the promise of a life lived amidst the Green Mountains. But for those considering a move, particularly those with health concerns, the idyllic scenery must be balanced against the realities of healthcare access. This Lung Cancer Score assesses the ease of transportation to medical facilities, a critical factor in managing and surviving this formidable disease. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It is designed to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for residents of 05832 seeking timely and efficient healthcare.

The primary challenge in this rural setting is the distance to specialized medical care. The nearest comprehensive cancer treatment centers are located outside the immediate vicinity, requiring significant travel. This reliance on transportation is a key element of the Lung Cancer Score. The time it takes to access these facilities directly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, all crucial elements of a positive health outcome.

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation in East Burke. The most direct route to the nearest significant healthcare hub, the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, involves a journey of approximately 120 miles. This drive, primarily via Vermont Route 114 south to Interstate 91 south, then to Interstate 89 north, typically takes around two and a half to three hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The final leg of the trip to the hospital involves navigating the Burlington city streets. This extended travel time can be a significant burden, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing acute symptoms.

Another viable option is to travel to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. The route involves a drive of approximately 100 miles, primarily via Vermont Route 114 south to US Route 2 west, then to Interstate 91 south. This journey typically takes around two to two and a half hours. While closer than Burlington, this drive still presents a considerable time commitment. The condition of the roads, especially during the harsh Vermont winters, can further complicate travel.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in 05832. There is no direct public bus service connecting East Burke to Burlington or Lebanon. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some regional bus service, but it does not directly serve East Burke. The nearest GMT route, the Route 80 bus, operates between St. Johnsbury and Montpelier, approximately 30 miles away. This route is not designed to facilitate healthcare access. Furthermore, the frequency of service is limited, and the travel time to access this route from East Burke would be significant, making it an impractical option for patients needing regular medical appointments. The lack of ADA-accessible features on these routes further limits the accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also scarce in this area. Their availability is highly variable, and wait times can be extensive. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments would be unreliable and potentially cost-prohibitive. The lack of readily available transportation options underscores the need for careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles or other specialized services.

Medical transport services are crucial for patients unable to drive themselves. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. These services can be essential for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their travels. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak demand or in adverse weather conditions. Booking well in advance is often necessary.

Some specialized medical transport services cater to patients with specific needs, such as oxygen support or stretcher transport. These services are essential for patients with advanced lung cancer who may require specialized care during their travels. The availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 05832 reflects the significant challenges associated with transportation to healthcare. The long drive times to specialized medical facilities, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create a complex landscape for patients seeking timely and efficient care. The reliance on personal vehicles or specialized medical transport services adds to the financial and logistical burden.

For individuals considering moving to East Burke, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and the transportation options available is essential. It is crucial to factor in the time and cost associated with travel to medical appointments, the potential for weather-related delays, and the availability of support services.

The Lung Cancer Score for 05832 underscores the importance of proactive planning. Residents should establish relationships with healthcare providers in advance, explore available transportation options, and familiarize themselves with local support services. This proactive approach can help mitigate the challenges of healthcare access and improve the overall quality of life for those living with or at risk of lung cancer in this beautiful but geographically isolated community. The vibrant beauty of East Burke is a powerful draw, but the realities of healthcare access must be carefully considered to ensure a fulfilling and healthy life.