05353, Townshend, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05353, Townshend, Vermont is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.58 percent of residents in 05353 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grace Cottage Hospital with a distance of 0.80 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05353 (Townshend, VT)

The health and well-being of residents in Townshend, Vermont (ZIP Code 05353), are significantly influenced by their ability to access healthcare services. This comprehensive assessment examines the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, providing an "Overall Health Score" that considers the challenges and opportunities inherent in this rural community. This score will help prospective residents understand the practicalities of **moving to Townshend**, and current residents to navigate their healthcare needs.

The score is not a single number, but a synthesis of several factors: drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing and medical transport options, and considerations for individuals with disabilities. Each element is weighed to reflect its contribution to the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare. The higher the score, the better the access, and the more supportive the environment for maintaining good health.

**Drive Time and Road Infrastructure:**

Townshend's location in Windham County presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities is by personal vehicle. The primary roads serving the area are Vermont Route 30, which runs north-south, and Vermont Route 121, which provides east-west connectivity. These roads, while scenic, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, impacting drive times and safety.

The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in surrounding towns and cities. Brattleboro, approximately 20 miles south, is home to the Brattleboro Memorial Hospital. The drive to Brattleboro can take between 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Springfield, Vermont, located to the north, also offers healthcare facilities, with a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Routes 30 and 121 are the primary arteries for these commutes.

While the roads are generally well-maintained, the winding nature of Vermont's roads and the potential for snow and ice necessitate careful driving and preparedness. Residents should factor in extra travel time during inclement weather. The absence of major highways directly serving Townshend means that longer trips to larger medical centers, such as those in Lebanon, New Hampshire, or Albany, New York, require significant travel time, potentially exceeding an hour and a half.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Townshend are limited. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the Green Mountain Express (GMx), offering bus routes throughout Windham County. However, these routes typically have limited service and frequency, particularly for destinations outside of the immediate vicinity.

The GMx Route 121, a key route, does offer service to the town of Londonderry, which is a potential hub for connection to other routes. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with typically only a few trips per day. The GMx also offers a demand-response service, which is a door-to-door service that requires advance booking. This is an important consideration for those with mobility limitations or who live in areas not directly served by fixed routes.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. GMx strives to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and that drivers are trained to assist passengers with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the potential need for transfers can still present challenges for individuals with mobility issues. The availability of accessible stops and shelters is also a factor to consider.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Townshend is inconsistent. While these services may be available at certain times, particularly in areas with higher population density, their presence is not guaranteed. Residents should not rely on ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services are available in the region, but their availability and cost vary. Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and Bayada Home Health Care provide ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport. These services can be essential for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or who require specialized medical assistance during transport. However, these services can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies.

**Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities:**

Accessibility is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. Individuals with disabilities face unique challenges in accessing healthcare, including physical barriers, limited transportation options, and the need for specialized equipment or assistance.

The availability of accessible transportation is paramount. This includes accessible public transit options, the availability of medical transportation services, and the ability to navigate the physical environment of healthcare facilities. Healthcare providers in the region are generally committed to providing accessible services, but the limitations of the transportation infrastructure can still pose significant challenges.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Townshend (ZIP Code 05353) is moderate. While the community benefits from the presence of local healthcare providers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present significant challenges. Drive times to hospitals and specialized medical centers can be substantial, particularly during inclement weather.

The limited availability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transport further complicate access. While public transportation options exist, their limited frequency and potential need for transfers can pose challenges for some residents. The community's commitment to ADA accessibility is commendable, but the overall transportation infrastructure presents limitations.

For those considering **moving to Townshend**, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, including the GMx bus routes, and the potential need for medical transport services. Planning ahead for appointments, particularly during winter months, is crucial.

The community could benefit from increased investment in public transportation, including expanded routes, increased frequency, and improved accessibility. Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services and providing subsidies for medical transportation could also significantly improve healthcare access for all residents. Ultimately, improving **healthcare access** requires a multi-faceted approach that considers the unique challenges of this rural community and prioritizes the health and well-being of its residents.