05872, West Charleston, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05872, West Charleston, Vermont is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.93 percent of residents in 05872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 10.72 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in West Charleston, Vermont (ZIP Code 05872)

The crisp mountain air of West Charleston, Vermont, offers a picturesque escape, but the serenity of this community masks a critical reality: healthcare access, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is significantly influenced by the available transportation options. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services from ZIP code 05872, providing vital insights for residents and those considering **moving to West Charleston**. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the **transportation** landscape impacting **healthcare access**.

The primary challenge for West Charleston residents lies in its rural location. The nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. Driving is the dominant mode of **transportation**, with Route 105 serving as the primary artery connecting West Charleston to the wider world. This road, while scenic, can be subject to weather-related delays, especially during Vermont's harsh winters. The secondary roads, like the quieter sections of Route 111 and local town roads, offer alternative routes, but often add to travel time and present their own challenges.

The most direct route to the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, a leading cancer treatment center, involves a drive of approximately 100 miles, a journey that typically takes between two and two and a half hours under ideal conditions. This route primarily utilizes Route 105 East to Interstate 91 South, then onto Interstate 89 North. The drive time is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care can place a significant burden on patients and their caregivers, both in terms of time and financial resources.

Another option, closer in distance but potentially more time-consuming, is to access Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. This route involves traveling approximately 90 miles, primarily via Route 105 East, then onto Route 5 South, and finally, Route 120 South. The journey, while shorter in distance, can be susceptible to traffic congestion, especially around the Hanover area. The Lung Cancer Score considers the variability in drive times, accounting for potential delays and the impact on patient well-being.

Public **transportation** options are limited in West Charleston. There is no direct public bus service connecting the town to major medical centers. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides regional bus service, but its routes are infrequent and primarily focused on serving larger population centers like St. Johnsbury, which is about a 30-minute drive from West Charleston. From St. Johnsbury, a patient might be able to connect to other services, but this would involve multiple transfers and significantly increase travel time, making it a less viable option for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. The lack of accessible, reliable public transit significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public **transportation** systems provide accessible services. However, the limited reach of public transit in this area, coupled with the potential for long travel times and multiple transfers, makes it difficult for individuals with mobility limitations to access these services. The Lung Cancer Score must account for the challenges faced by patients with disabilities, who may require specialized **transportation** support.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in some parts of Vermont, but their availability in West Charleston is unreliable. The sparse population density and the distance to major urban centers often make it difficult to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of consistent ride-sharing options presents a significant hurdle for patients who cannot drive or lack access to personal vehicles. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the limited availability of these services.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline in rural areas. Several companies operate in Vermont, including specialized medical transport providers and ambulance services. These services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, but they provide a reliable option for patients needing assistance. The Lung Cancer Score recognizes the importance of these services, but also acknowledges the financial burden they can place on patients.

The financial implications of **transportation** costs are another critical consideration. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees can quickly accumulate, adding to the financial strain associated with a cancer diagnosis. For patients with limited financial resources, these costs can become a significant barrier to accessing timely and appropriate care. The Lung Cancer Score incorporates an assessment of the financial burden associated with **transportation**, considering the availability of financial assistance programs and the potential impact on patient outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score for West Charleston (ZIP code 05872) is influenced by several factors. The primary driver is the significant distance to comprehensive cancer care facilities, resulting in long drive times. The lack of reliable public transit and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate the challenges. While medical **transportation** services offer a viable alternative, their cost can be prohibitive.

The score is not simply a number but a reflection of the real-world challenges faced by individuals battling lung cancer in this rural community. It underscores the importance of considering **healthcare access** when making decisions about where to live, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or those at risk. It also highlights the need for initiatives that improve **transportation** options and reduce the financial burden associated with accessing essential medical services.

For individuals **moving to West Charleston**, a careful assessment of their **transportation** needs and the availability of support services is essential. Understanding the challenges and proactively planning for **healthcare access** can significantly improve the quality of life for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a crucial tool for informed decision-making, ensuring that residents of West Charleston have the information they need to navigate the complexities of **healthcare access** and receive the care they deserve.