05461, Hinesburg, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05461, Hinesburg, Vermont is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.22 percent of residents in 05461 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Univ. Of Vermont - Fletcher Allen Health Care with a distance of 11.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05461 (Hinesburg, VT)

The overall health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to essential services, particularly healthcare. This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare accessibility for residents of ZIP Code 05461, Hinesburg, Vermont, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. Understanding the ease, or difficulty, of commuting to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other health-related destinations is paramount to assessing the overall health score of this community, especially for those considering moving to Hinesburg.

The geographic reality of Hinesburg, nestled in the Champlain Valley, presents both opportunities and challenges. The town's relative proximity to Burlington, Vermont's largest city, offers access to a wider range of healthcare options. However, the rural nature of the area necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents, impacting the transportation component of the overall health score.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary artery connecting Hinesburg to the broader healthcare network is **Route 116**, a north-south thoroughfare that serves as the town's main street. Heading north on Route 116 provides access to the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, a comprehensive tertiary care facility. During peak traffic hours, the drive can take upwards of 30 minutes, covering approximately 15 miles. The route involves navigating through Williston, a town known for its commercial activity, which can lead to congestion.

Southbound on Route 116 leads to Bristol, a smaller town with a local health center, providing primary care services. The drive to Bristol is shorter, typically around 15 minutes, offering a more convenient option for routine appointments. However, the scope of services is more limited compared to the larger facilities in Burlington.

For those needing to access healthcare facilities in other directions, **Route 2** provides an east-west corridor. This route can be used to access facilities in Richmond, a town east of Hinesburg. The drive to Richmond is generally shorter than the Burlington commute, but still requires a vehicle.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Role:**

Public transportation options in Hinesburg are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) offers bus service in the area, but the routes and frequency are not ideally suited for healthcare commutes. The primary route serving Hinesburg is the **Route 116** bus, which runs between Burlington and Bristol.

While this route does offer a connection to UVMMC, the schedule is not frequent, and the travel time is significantly longer than driving, often exceeding an hour. The bus does not offer direct access to all healthcare facilities, and transfers may be required. The accessibility of the GMT buses for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) is a positive aspect, offering ramps and designated seating. However, the limited service and long travel times present a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Hinesburg area, offering an alternative to driving. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially making it an unaffordable option for regular healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with mobility limitations or other health needs, offer a specialized solution. These services, such as **Care Wheels** and **Burlington Medical Transport**, provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist passengers. While these services are invaluable for those who cannot drive or use public transportation, they can be costly and require advance booking. The availability of these services is a positive factor, but their accessibility is dependent on affordability and service capacity.

**Pharmacy Access and Healthcare Access:**

Access to pharmacies is a crucial element of healthcare access. Hinesburg has a local pharmacy, providing convenient access to medications and other healthcare products. However, for specialized medications or a wider selection, residents may need to travel to Burlington or other towns. The drive to Burlington provides access to a variety of pharmacies, including those affiliated with large healthcare systems.

Healthcare access is not limited to medical appointments. Access to mental health services, dental care, and other specialized healthcare providers is essential. The availability of these services within Hinesburg is limited, necessitating travel to Burlington or other surrounding towns. The commute time, availability of transportation, and cost of services all contribute to the overall healthcare access score.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 05461 is influenced by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access. These factors particularly affect those with mobility limitations, low incomes, or those who do not have access to a vehicle.

The availability of UVMMC in Burlington offers access to a wide range of healthcare services. However, the commute time and potential traffic congestion can make it difficult for residents to attend appointments regularly. The presence of a local health center in Bristol offers a more convenient option for primary care, but the scope of services is more limited.

**Moving to Hinesburg: Considerations for Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Hinesburg, healthcare access should be a key consideration. Assessing the availability of transportation options, the proximity to healthcare facilities, and the potential cost of healthcare services is crucial. Those with mobility limitations or those who rely on public transportation should carefully evaluate the challenges of commuting to medical appointments.

The overall health score for Hinesburg is moderately affected by the transportation component. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the challenges of commuting, particularly for those without personal vehicles, can impact the ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. The community's efforts to improve public transportation, expand ride-sharing options, or support medical transportation services could significantly improve the overall health score.