05875, West Glover, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05875, West Glover, Vermont is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.95 percent of residents in 05875 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 16.29 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05875

The crisp Vermont air, the rolling hills, and the tight-knit community of West Glover (ZIP Code 05875) offer a bucolic charm that draws people seeking respite and connection. However, the allure of rural living necessitates a critical examination of healthcare access, especially for those considering a move. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape and its impact on the ability to receive timely and effective lung cancer care, a critical factor in determining a potential resident’s Lung Cancer Score.

Our focus is on the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, including diagnostic tests, treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, and follow-up care. The ease or difficulty of these commutes directly impacts a patient’s prognosis and quality of life. This analysis considers the primary modes of transportation available, their associated challenges, and the potential impact on individuals diagnosed with or at risk for lung cancer.

The primary challenge for West Glover residents 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 time. The most direct route to Burlington involves navigating Vermont Route 16, a winding two-lane road that eventually connects to Interstate 89 (I-89). This drive, approximately 100 miles, can take between two and two-and-a-half hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route to Lebanon, via Vermont Route 16 and Interstate 91 (I-91), is a similar distance, taking around two hours.

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation in this rural area. Personal vehicles offer the most flexibility in terms of scheduling and access to appointments. However, the long distances, particularly during harsh Vermont winters, can pose significant challenges. Snow and ice can make roads treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing travel. This is especially concerning for patients undergoing treatment, who may have compromised immune systems and be more vulnerable to the elements.

Public transportation options are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) system provides some bus service within the region, but routes are infrequent and do not directly connect West Glover to major medical centers. The primary route serving the area is the Orleans Express, which travels along Route 16. This route offers limited stops and connections, often requiring multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time. ADA accessibility on these buses is available, but the overall system is not designed for frequent trips to distant medical facilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the Burlington and Lebanon areas, but their availability in West Glover is sporadic. Securing a ride, especially for early morning appointments or late-night treatments, can be unreliable. The cost of ride-sharing for such long distances can also be prohibitive for many individuals, adding another layer of financial burden to an already stressful situation.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance. These services, such as the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) and private medical transport companies, provide door-to-door transportation for medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly. Their availability may also be limited, particularly for patients with complex scheduling needs.

The impact of these transportation challenges on lung cancer patients is profound. Delays in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care can negatively affect survival rates and overall quality of life. Frequent travel for appointments can be physically and emotionally draining, exacerbating the effects of the disease and its treatments. The financial burden of transportation costs can also create additional stress for patients and their families.

For individuals considering a move to West Glover, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Before making a decision, potential residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the accessibility of medical services. This includes considering the availability of specialists, the frequency of required appointments, and the financial resources available to cover transportation costs.

The Lung Cancer Score for West Glover, therefore, reflects the challenges inherent in accessing timely and convenient healthcare. The long distances to medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a higher score, indicating a greater degree of difficulty in accessing lung cancer care.

The remoteness of West Glover presents a significant hurdle for those battling lung cancer. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options creates barriers to care that can impact health outcomes. The importance of proactive planning and exploring all available resources, including support from family, friends, and community organizations, cannot be overstated.

The decision to move to West Glover is a personal one, influenced by various factors. However, for individuals with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. The beauty and tranquility of the area must be weighed against the practical realities of accessing potentially life-saving medical care.