05405, Burlington, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05405, Burlington, Vermont is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

93.21 percent of residents in 05405 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Univ. Of Vermont - Fletcher Allen Health Care with a distance of 3.39 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05405

The health and well-being of residents in Burlington, Vermont, ZIP code 05405, are intrinsically linked to their ability to access healthcare. This comprehensive analysis evaluates the transportation landscape, a crucial determinant of healthcare access, offering an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, painting a detailed picture for those considering moving to Burlington or seeking to understand the existing healthcare accessibility.

The primary arteries of transportation in and around Burlington, particularly for accessing healthcare, include Interstate 89 (I-89), U.S. Route 2 (US-2), and various local roads. Drive times to healthcare facilities are largely dependent on traffic conditions and the specific location within the ZIP code. Residents in the northern portions of 05405, closer to the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC), often experience shorter commute times. Conversely, those residing in the southern or western areas might face longer drives, especially during peak hours. The efficiency of these routes is a critical factor in the overall health score, as prolonged travel can exacerbate health issues, especially during emergencies.

UVMMC, the primary healthcare provider in the region, is a major destination for residents of 05405. Reaching this facility by car from most locations within the ZIP code typically takes between 5 and 20 minutes, assuming normal traffic flow. However, the proximity to the hospital is a significant advantage for those living nearby. The time factor becomes more critical for specialized clinics or urgent care facilities located further afield. The presence of multiple routes, including I-89 and US-2, provides alternative options, which can be crucial in the event of accidents or traffic congestion.

Public transportation offers an alternative to private vehicles, particularly for those without access to a car or who prefer not to drive. The Chittenden County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides bus services throughout Burlington and the surrounding areas. Several CCTA routes serve 05405, connecting residents to UVMMC and other healthcare facilities. Route 1, for example, is a key route, offering direct access to the medical center. Route 2 provides another option for reaching the hospital.

The CCTA strives to ensure accessibility for all riders, including those with disabilities. All buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and designated seating. While public transit offers a valuable service, the frequency of buses and the overall travel time can be a limiting factor. The health score must consider the potential for longer travel times, especially for those living in areas with less frequent service.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Burlington, providing another transportation option for healthcare access. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Surge pricing, which occurs during peak hours or periods of high demand, can also increase the cost of transportation, potentially creating a financial barrier for some residents.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a critical role in healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services are essential for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, and the efficiency and reliability of these services directly impact the health score. Ambulance services are readily available in 05405 for emergency situations, ensuring rapid response times. NEMT services, provided by companies like MedRide, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, such as dialysis or physical therapy.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 05405 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of multiple transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, contributes positively to the score. However, the efficiency of these options, as measured by travel times, frequency of service, and cost, is equally important. The density of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code also plays a role, as proximity to providers reduces travel times and improves overall accessibility.

The presence of UVMMC as a major healthcare provider in the area is a significant advantage for residents of 05405. The hospital's comprehensive services and specialized care options reduce the need for residents to travel outside the region for treatment. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within the ZIP code also contributes to the score, as it reduces the need for long-distance travel.

The health score also considers the demographics of the population. For example, the presence of a significant elderly population or individuals with disabilities necessitates a robust and accessible transportation system. The availability of ADA-compliant public transit, specialized medical transport services, and ride-sharing options is crucial for ensuring that these residents can access the healthcare they need.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 05405 is rated as good. The availability of multiple transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, contributes to a positive score. The proximity to UVMMC and other healthcare facilities also enhances accessibility. However, improvements could be made in the frequency and coverage of public transit, particularly in the southern and western areas of the ZIP code. Further, the affordability of ride-sharing services and the availability of NEMT services could be enhanced to address potential barriers to healthcare access for certain segments of the population.

For individuals considering moving to Burlington, ZIP code 05405, this analysis provides valuable insights into the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The overall health score reflects the relative ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, offering a crucial factor in the decision-making process. By understanding the transportation options available, residents can make informed choices about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the care they require. The continued investment in public transit, ride-sharing programs, and medical transport services will further enhance the health score, ensuring that all residents of 05405 have equitable access to healthcare.