05403, South Burlington, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05403, South Burlington, Vermont is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.76 percent of residents in 05403 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Univ. Of Vermont - Fletcher Allen Health Care with a distance of 2.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05403

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 05403, focusing on the crucial element of **healthcare access** through various **transportation** options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for individuals considering **moving to South Burlington**, Vermont. The goal is to illuminate the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services, directly impacting overall well-being.

The score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation, weighing the strengths and weaknesses of available transportation modalities. It considers factors like distance, travel time, accessibility, cost, and availability, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape. This information is vital for residents to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The dominant thoroughfare in 05403 is Shelburne Road (Route 7), a major artery leading south towards the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington. Driving times to UVMMC are generally favorable, typically ranging from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Peak hours, especially weekday mornings and afternoons, can significantly extend these times, particularly around the intersection of Shelburne Road and Dorset Street.

Other healthcare facilities, such as the Community Health Centers of Burlington (CHCB) locations, are also easily accessible by car. The CHCB on Shelburne Road is usually a quick 5-10 minute drive. The speed and convenience of personal vehicles make them a preferred choice for many residents, especially for urgent medical needs. However, the reliance on a car introduces considerations of vehicle maintenance, fuel costs, and parking availability.

Alternative routes, like Spear Street and Williston Road, offer some relief from traffic congestion on Shelburne Road. These routes provide access to various healthcare providers, including specialists and urgent care facilities. Understanding these alternative pathways is critical for efficient travel planning.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) system provides public transportation within and around 05403. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a viable alternative to driving, especially for those without personal vehicles or seeking to reduce their environmental impact.

Route 7, running along Shelburne Road, is a primary transit artery, connecting 05403 with Burlington and other surrounding towns. This route provides direct access to UVMMC and other key healthcare facilities. Route 11, which travels along Dorset Street, provides another valuable connection, particularly for reaching services located further east.

GMT buses are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. However, travel times on public transit can be significantly longer than driving, especially during off-peak hours. Waiting times at bus stops and the need for transfers can add considerable time to the commute.

The GMT website and mobile app provide real-time information on bus schedules and locations, aiding in travel planning. Residents can also access information on fare options, including passes and reduced fares for eligible individuals.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 05403 area. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient option for reaching healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical visits.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or other special needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients can safely and comfortably reach their appointments. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and the specific provider. Researching and comparing options is essential for finding the most suitable and affordable transportation solution.

**Accessibility Considerations:**

Accessibility is a crucial factor in evaluating healthcare access. The availability of accessible transportation options, such as buses with ramps and medical transport services, is vital for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations.

The proximity of healthcare facilities to public transit routes is another important consideration. Facilities located near bus stops or transit hubs are more accessible to individuals who rely on public transportation.

The physical accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves is also essential. Ensuring that facilities have ramps, elevators, and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities is crucial for creating an inclusive healthcare environment.

**Cost of Commuting:**

The cost of commuting to healthcare is a significant factor impacting overall health. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, parking fees, and public transit fares can add up, particularly for individuals with chronic health conditions who require frequent medical visits.

The availability of financial assistance programs, such as transportation subsidies or reduced fares, can help mitigate the financial burden of commuting. Exploring these programs and understanding eligibility requirements is essential for residents.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can also be a significant factor. Comparing prices and exploring alternative options is essential for finding affordable transportation solutions.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 05403 is considered moderately favorable. The availability of personal vehicles and the relatively short drive times to UVMMC and other healthcare facilities are significant advantages. The presence of GMT bus routes provides a viable alternative for those without cars or seeking to reduce their environmental impact.

However, the reliance on Shelburne Road and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours can impact travel times. The longer travel times on public transit and the cost of ride-sharing services are potential drawbacks.

The availability of ADA-accessible transportation options and the presence of medical transport services enhance healthcare access for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize carpooling or utilizing public transit** during peak hours to mitigate traffic congestion.
* **Explore the GMT bus routes** and utilize the real-time tracking app for efficient travel planning.
* **Research and compare ride-sharing and medical transport options** to find the most affordable and suitable solution.
* **Advocate for improvements to public transit**, such as increased frequency and extended service hours.
* **Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to public transit routes** when selecting a healthcare provider.
* **Utilize online resources** like the GMT website and the Vermont Department of Health website for detailed information on transportation options and healthcare services.
* **For those considering moving to South Burlington**, carefully evaluate the transportation options available based on their individual needs and circumstances.

By understanding the complexities of healthcare access through transportation, residents of 05403 can make informed decisions about their health and well-being. This assessment provides a foundation for navigating the healthcare landscape and ensuring that essential medical services are readily accessible.