05065, Sharon, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05065, Sharon, Vermont is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.38 percent of residents in 05065 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gifford Medical Center with a distance of 14.80 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Sharon, Vermont (ZIP Code 05065)

The quaint town of Sharon, Vermont, nestled in the heart of the Upper Valley, offers a compelling blend of rural charm and community spirit. However, when considering a move to Sharon, prospective residents must carefully assess the crucial element of healthcare access. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 05065, examining transportation options and their impact on accessing medical services. Understanding these complexities is vital for anyone contemplating a relocation, ensuring that healthcare needs can be met efficiently and effectively.

The "Overall Health Score" considers several factors, including drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. The score is not a numerical grade but a comprehensive assessment of the ease and challenges of accessing healthcare from Sharon. This write-up aims to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its implications for healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Road Infrastructure:**

For residents of Sharon, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town’s location, while offering scenic beauty, presents challenges in terms of distance to major medical facilities. The most direct route to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, New Hampshire, a major regional healthcare provider, involves navigating **Interstate 89 (I-89)** and **Interstate 91 (I-91)**. The drive, typically taking around 30 to 45 minutes, is subject to traffic fluctuations, especially during peak commuting hours.

Other healthcare facilities, such as Gifford Medical Center in Randolph, Vermont, are more accessible via **Vermont Route 14**. This route, while shorter in distance, can be slower due to its two-lane configuration and potential for seasonal weather-related delays. The drive to Gifford Medical Center typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Local roads, including **Sharon Road** and **Route 132**, offer access to nearby towns and services, but they are not ideal for long-distance travel to specialized medical facilities.

The condition of Vermont roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and safety. Snow and ice can create hazardous driving conditions, potentially delaying or even preventing access to healthcare appointments. Residents should be prepared for these seasonal challenges and plan accordingly.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Sharon are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The **Advance Transit** bus system, which serves the Upper Valley region, does not directly service Sharon. Residents must rely on other options to connect to the bus routes.

The lack of robust public transportation underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation arrangements for healthcare appointments. This limitation is particularly challenging for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or otherwise unable to drive. For those considering moving to Sharon, this aspect of healthcare access must be carefully considered.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Upper Valley region, including Sharon. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center's Patient Transport Services** and independent providers. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility devices and medical equipment. While these services offer a valuable resource, they can be costly and may require advance booking.

**Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities:**

Healthcare access for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. Public transportation, where available, should adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring accessibility features such as ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the limited public transportation options in Sharon present a challenge for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services and medical transport providers should also be able to accommodate individuals with disabilities, offering accessible vehicles and trained personnel. When considering a move to Sharon, individuals with disabilities should investigate the availability and reliability of these specialized transportation services.

**Healthcare Access and Community Resources:**

The availability of healthcare services within Sharon itself is limited. Residents typically rely on healthcare providers in neighboring towns, such as White River Junction and Randolph, or further afield in Lebanon, New Hampshire. This reliance on external healthcare facilities highlights the importance of reliable transportation options.

Community resources, such as the local senior center and social service agencies, can provide assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These resources may offer volunteer driver programs or connect individuals with transportation assistance programs.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Sharon, Vermont (ZIP code 05065) is moderately challenging. While driving times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the lack of robust public transportation options and the potential for seasonal weather-related delays pose significant challenges. Ride-sharing services offer a supplementary option, but their availability and cost can be limiting. Medical transport services provide a specialized solution, but they can be expensive.

For individuals considering moving to Sharon, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who can drive or have access to a personal vehicle will find healthcare access more manageable. Individuals who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Planning and preparation are key to ensuring seamless healthcare access in this charming but geographically isolated community. The success of any move to Sharon requires a clear understanding of these transportation realities and their impact on healthcare access.