05084, West Hartford, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05084, West Hartford, Vermont is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.00 percent of residents in 05084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is White River Jct Va Medical Center with a distance of 6.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05084

ZIP Code 05084, encompassing the picturesque town of Thetford, Vermont, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the challenges inherent in accessing essential services. This write-up assesses the overall health score for residents, focusing specifically on the critical aspect of healthcare access, considering the diverse transportation options available. Understanding the intricacies of navigating the region is paramount, especially for those contemplating **moving to West Hartford**, Connecticut, and seeking a comparative analysis of healthcare accessibility.

The score considers several factors: drive times to medical facilities, the availability and efficiency of public transportation, the presence and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the specialized medical transport options available. Each element contributes to a holistic understanding of the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical care. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on the health and well-being of the community.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 05084 is undoubtedly the automobile. The region’s geography, characterized by rolling hills and dispersed populations, favors personal vehicles. Residents rely on their cars for the majority of their transportation needs, including trips to doctors' appointments, pharmacies, and hospitals. Drive times are, therefore, a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility.

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, serves as a primary healthcare hub for many residents of 05084. The drive to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center typically involves navigating **Interstate 91** and **Route 10**, with an average travel time of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within the ZIP Code. The drive itself is generally scenic, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and road safety.

Other medical facilities, such as Gifford Medical Center in Randolph, Vermont, are also accessible. The journey to Gifford Medical Center usually involves traveling on **Route 113** and **Route 12**, with an estimated drive time of 30 to 45 minutes. This longer travel time highlights the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare, particularly for urgent or emergency situations.

Public transportation in 05084 is limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Advance Transit bus service provides some coverage, but its routes and schedules are designed to serve the broader Upper Valley region, not specifically to cater to the healthcare needs of 05084 residents. The routes, while offering some connectivity, may not always align with the timing of medical appointments.

The Advance Transit system, while offering a valuable service, has limited routes and frequency within the ZIP Code. The system’s routes do not have specific numbers, making it harder to identify and plan for commutes. The buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the rural nature of the area and the infrequency of service often necessitate careful planning and coordination.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Upper Valley region, including 05084. However, their availability is often inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services cannot be guaranteed, especially for urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, further limiting their access to healthcare.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. These services, including ambulance and non-emergency medical transport, are available in the area. However, the response times for these services can vary, and the availability of specialized transport, such as dialysis transport, may be limited.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 05084 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services, and the complexities of medical transport services all contribute to the overall picture.

The drive times to medical facilities, while generally manageable, can be impacted by weather conditions and traffic. The limited public transportation options and the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for those without personal vehicles. The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net, but the response times and specialized services may not always meet the needs of all residents.

When comparing this situation to the healthcare access landscape in a more urban environment, such as **West Hartford**, the contrast is stark. West Hartford, with its denser population, robust public transportation network, and readily available ride-sharing services, offers significantly greater healthcare accessibility. The proximity of medical facilities, the frequency of public transit routes, and the reliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a higher overall health score in West Hartford.

For individuals considering **moving to West Hartford**, the enhanced healthcare access is a significant advantage. The ability to easily reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and hospitals is a crucial factor in maintaining overall health and well-being. The availability of diverse transportation options reduces the stress and inconvenience associated with healthcare access, allowing residents to focus on their health.

In contrast, residents of 05084 must carefully consider the transportation challenges when planning their healthcare needs. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services require careful planning and coordination. The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net, but the response times and specialized services may not always meet the needs of all residents.

The overall health score for 05084, therefore, is influenced by the need for residents to navigate a complex transportation landscape to access healthcare. While the scenic beauty and rural charm of the area are undeniable, the transportation limitations pose a significant challenge for those seeking medical care.

In conclusion, the health score for healthcare access in 05084 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport services provides some relief, but their reliability and cost can be barriers. For those considering **moving to West Hartford**, the enhanced healthcare access is a significant advantage, offering a stark contrast to the transportation challenges faced by residents of 05084. The overall health score reflects the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access, highlighting the need for careful consideration and planning for residents of this charming, yet geographically challenging, Vermont community.