05867, Sutton, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05867, Sutton, Vermont is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.46 percent of residents in 05867 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital with a distance of 14.18 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sutton, Vermont (ZIP Code 05867)

The crisp air of Sutton, Vermont, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, might seem idyllic, but assessing healthcare access reveals a more nuanced reality. For residents, particularly those facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis, understanding transportation options is paramount. This 'Lung Cancer Score' aims to illuminate the complexities of accessing vital medical care within and beyond ZIP code 05867, focusing on the critical element of transportation. We'll examine drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for those seeking treatment or considering moving to Sutton.

The primary concern for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialized medical care. This often necessitates travel to larger medical centers equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities. In Sutton, the nearest comprehensive oncology services are located in Burlington, Vermont, and Lebanon, New Hampshire. The journey to Burlington, a bustling city, typically involves a drive of approximately two hours, primarily via Interstate 91 (I-91) South and then onto Interstate 89 (I-89) North. This route, while relatively straightforward, is susceptible to delays due to weather conditions, particularly during Vermont's long winters.

Alternatively, the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, offers another option. This trip involves traveling south on I-91 and then east on New Hampshire Route 10. The drive time is comparable to Burlington, also around two hours, but the route is slightly more rural, and the potential for delays remains a factor. Both destinations require careful planning, considering the unpredictable nature of Vermont's weather and the potential for fatigue associated with frequent long-distance travel.

Public transportation options in Sutton are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) system, while serving some surrounding areas, does not directly provide service to Sutton. The absence of a robust public transit network presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or who lack access to a personal vehicle. This is a crucial consideration for those with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may impair their ability to drive safely. The lack of public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is less consistent in rural areas like Sutton. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Securing a ride for a medical appointment requires careful planning and potentially advance booking, which adds another layer of complexity to the already challenging situation. The reliability of ride-sharing services in Sutton is a critical factor to consider when evaluating healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical assistance during transport. However, these services often require pre-booking and may involve significant costs, making them a potential financial burden for some patients.

The availability of medical transportation is a vital lifeline for patients who cannot drive themselves or rely on family or friends. However, the cost and availability of these services can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for those with limited financial resources. The need for accessible and affordable medical transportation is a recurring theme when evaluating healthcare access in rural areas.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Sutton, Vermont, is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals navigating the complexities of healthcare access. The score must account for the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the financial burdens associated with medical transport. It highlights the importance of considering transportation when assessing healthcare access, especially for vulnerable populations.

For those considering moving to Sutton, the 'Lung Cancer Score' should be a key consideration. It is essential to assess the availability of transportation options and to factor in the potential challenges of accessing specialized medical care. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about where to live and how to ensure timely access to vital healthcare services.

The impact of a lung cancer diagnosis extends beyond the medical realm; it touches every aspect of a person's life, including their ability to access necessary care. The 'Lung Cancer Score' underscores the importance of proactive planning and the need for community-based solutions to address the transportation challenges faced by residents of Sutton, Vermont, and other rural areas. It's a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it's about the ability to get there.