05032, Bethel, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05032, Bethel, Vermont is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.17 percent of residents in 05032 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gifford Medical Center with a distance of 8.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05032 (Bethel, Vermont)

This comprehensive assessment of healthcare access within ZIP Code 05032, encompassing the charming town of Bethel, Vermont, provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available to residents seeking medical care. The evaluation considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a picture of the realities faced by individuals needing to reach healthcare providers. This information is particularly relevant for those **moving to Bethel**, Vermont, and needing to understand the practicalities of healthcare access.

The score reflects the inherent challenges of a rural environment, where distances and limited infrastructure significantly impact healthcare accessibility. The assessment acknowledges the importance of timely access to medical attention and how the available **transportation** options directly influence the overall health and well-being of the community.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in Bethel is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town’s location in the heart of Vermont, while picturesque, presents geographic constraints. The major thoroughfare serving Bethel is Vermont Route 107, a two-lane road that snakes through the White River Valley. This road provides direct access to the neighboring towns of Woodstock to the east and Sharon to the west.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. The Gifford Medical Center in Randolph, approximately 15 miles east via Route 107, represents a critical hub for medical services. Under ideal conditions, the drive to Randolph takes about 20-30 minutes. However, factors such as weather conditions, particularly during Vermont's harsh winters, can dramatically increase travel times, potentially doubling or tripling the duration.

Further afield, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, a major regional medical center, is approximately 45 miles southeast. The most direct route involves traveling on Route 107 to Route 4, then onto Interstate 89 South. The drive typically takes around an hour, but this can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours or when there are accidents.

Access to specialists and advanced medical care often necessitates longer journeys. Burlington, Vermont, home to the University of Vermont Medical Center, is a considerable distance, approximately 80 miles north. The journey involves taking Interstate 89 North, and travel times can range from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather. This lengthy travel time can be a significant barrier for residents needing specialized care or frequent appointments.

**Public Transit:**

Public **transportation** options in Bethel are limited, reflecting the rural nature of the area. The primary provider is Stagecoach Transportation Services, which offers bus routes throughout the White River Valley. However, the service frequency and route coverage are not extensive.

The primary route serving Bethel is Route 80, which connects the town with Randolph and White River Junction. The bus service operates on a limited schedule, with fewer trips on weekends and evenings. This schedule may not align with the needs of residents requiring medical appointments at various times.

The buses operated by Stagecoach are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. This ensures accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage pose a challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. Reliance on public transit can mean longer travel times and the potential for missed appointments due to schedule constraints.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bethel area, though their availability may be inconsistent. Demand for these services is lower than in more urban areas, which can lead to longer wait times and potentially higher fares. The reliability of ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is, therefore, uncertain.

Specialized medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services are typically provided by ambulance companies or private medical **transportation** providers. However, these services can be costly and may require prior arrangements. They are generally reserved for individuals with significant mobility limitations or those needing medical supervision during transit.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The overall **healthcare access** score for residents of ZIP Code 05032 is moderately impacted by the limitations of **transportation** options. While personal vehicles offer the most flexibility, the distances to major medical centers and the potential for weather-related delays pose challenges. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate access for those without personal vehicles or the financial means for specialized transport.

The availability of local healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and urgent care clinics, mitigates some of the **transportation** challenges. However, access to specialists and advanced medical services often requires travel to larger medical centers, increasing the burden on residents.

**Overall Health Score:**

The Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 05032 is a 6 out of 10. This score reflects the following:

* **Strengths:** The presence of Route 107 provides a direct route to nearby healthcare facilities. The availability of ride-sharing services, though limited, offers an alternative to personal vehicles.
* **Weaknesses:** The limited public transit options, the potential for weather-related delays, and the distances to major medical centers significantly impact **healthcare access**. The cost and availability of specialized medical **transportation** services add to the challenges.

**Recommendations:**

* Enhance public transit services: Increased frequency and route coverage for Stagecoach Transportation Services would improve **healthcare access**, particularly for residents without personal vehicles.
* Promote ride-sharing: Encourage the availability of ride-sharing services by partnering with local businesses and organizations.
* Support medical transport: Advocate for affordable and accessible medical **transportation** services for individuals with mobility limitations.
* Improve road infrastructure: Continue to maintain and improve the roads, especially Route 107, to ensure safe and efficient travel.

This assessment provides a critical overview of the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access** in Bethel, Vermont. It highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** options and ensure that all residents have timely and reliable access to the medical care they need. For those **moving to Bethel**, this information is essential for understanding the practicalities of accessing healthcare in a rural environment.