05255, Manchester Center, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05255, Manchester Center, Vermont is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.10 percent of residents in 05255 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grace Cottage Hospital with a distance of 21.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Manchester Center (ZIP Code 05255)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Manchester Center, Vermont (ZIP Code 05255), requires a deep dive into the crucial intersection of transportation and healthcare access. This assessment considers the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone considering moving to Manchester Center, as they directly impact the quality of life and overall well-being.

The geographical layout of Manchester Center, nestled within the Green Mountains, significantly influences transportation dynamics. While the area boasts scenic beauty, it also presents challenges for efficient movement. The primary artery serving the region is **Route 7**, a major north-south thoroughfare. **Route 11/30** provides an east-west connection. These highways are critical for accessing healthcare facilities both within and outside the immediate vicinity.

Drive times to medical facilities represent a core component of healthcare access. The Southwestern Vermont Medical Center in Bennington, approximately 30 miles south, is a major regional hospital. A drive to Bennington via Route 7 typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The Rutland Regional Medical Center, located about 50 miles north, offers another option. The journey to Rutland, primarily via Route 7, can take approximately an hour and fifteen minutes. These drive times, while manageable, can be taxing, especially during emergencies or for individuals with chronic health conditions.

Public transportation options in Manchester Center are limited, impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) operates a bus route, though it primarily serves the immediate area and surrounding towns. The specific routes and schedules should be consulted for accurate information, but the GMT system is not always equipped to handle medical appointments. The system has ADA features, including accessible ramps and lifts, and accessible seating.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provides an alternative transportation solution. However, the frequency and reliability of these services in Manchester Center are subject to demand and driver availability. Residents may encounter longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of consistent availability can create significant barriers to accessing timely medical care.

Medical transport services, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), play a vital role in ensuring healthcare access for those with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. The local ambulance service provides emergency medical transport to hospitals. NEMT services, which often involve specialized vehicles and trained personnel, cater to individuals requiring transportation to medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or other healthcare-related destinations. These services are crucial for those who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options.

Evaluating the overall health score also requires consideration of the availability of healthcare providers within Manchester Center itself. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities reduces the need for long-distance travel for routine medical needs. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or neurology, may still necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Bennington or Rutland.

The demographics of Manchester Center also influence healthcare access. The aging population may require more frequent medical appointments and specialized transportation services. Individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions face additional challenges in accessing healthcare. The availability of affordable housing and social support services also impacts overall health and well-being.

The weather in Vermont, particularly during the winter months, poses a significant challenge to transportation and healthcare access. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, increasing travel times and potentially delaying medical appointments. Public transportation schedules may be disrupted, further exacerbating the difficulties faced by residents.

The overall health score for residents of Manchester Center is therefore a complex interplay of various factors. While the area offers access to major medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public transportation, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for weather-related disruptions pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services and the presence of local healthcare providers mitigate some of these challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Manchester Center, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Understanding the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transit and ride-sharing, and the potential for weather-related disruptions will enable informed decision-making. Additionally, investigating the availability of local healthcare providers and medical transport services is crucial.

In conclusion, while Manchester Center offers a desirable quality of life, the complexities of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered. Improving public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and enhancing medical transport infrastructure would significantly improve the overall health score for residents. These improvements would ensure that all individuals, regardless of their mobility or health status, can readily access the medical care they need.