05462, Huntington, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05462, Huntington, Vermont is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.57 percent of residents in 05462 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Univ. Of Vermont - Fletcher Allen Health Care with a distance of 15.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05462 (Huntington, VT)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Huntington, Vermont (ZIP code 05462) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not just the quality of healthcare available but also the accessibility of that care. A critical component of this accessibility is the transportation landscape, which significantly impacts a resident's ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and other essential health services. This analysis delves into the drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transportation services relevant to Huntington, painting a picture of the ease – or difficulty – of accessing healthcare within this rural community.

The primary determinant of healthcare accessibility in Huntington is the reliance on personal vehicles. The geography of the area, nestled within the Green Mountains, dictates that most residents will depend on driving to access medical facilities. This reliance, however, is complicated by the winding roads and potential for inclement weather, especially during the long Vermont winters.

The closest significant healthcare hub is the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, approximately 25 miles away. The most direct route involves taking **Vermont Route 118** south to **Vermont Route 116** south, then connecting to **Interstate 89** east. The drive, under ideal conditions, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. However, during peak traffic hours, especially during the morning and evening commutes, this drive time can easily extend, adding stress and potentially delaying access to critical care.

Another option for accessing healthcare is the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans, roughly 40 miles away. This route involves traveling north on **Vermont Route 118** to **Vermont Route 104** and then east. The drive time to St. Albans is generally longer than the Burlington route, typically taking between an hour and an hour and fifteen minutes. This can be a factor for residents considering moving to Huntington.

The condition of the roads, especially during winter, can significantly impact these drive times. Snow, ice, and reduced visibility can make the already winding roads treacherous, increasing the risk of accidents and further delaying access to healthcare. Residents must be prepared for these conditions, ensuring their vehicles are properly equipped and that they have the necessary skills to navigate challenging road conditions.

Public transportation options in Huntington are limited, presenting a significant challenge to those without personal vehicles. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some service in the region, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs. The primary GMT route serving the area is the **Route 116** bus, which travels between Burlington and Bristol, passing through Huntington. This route operates on a limited schedule, with fewer trips on weekends and holidays.

While the **Route 116** bus does offer some connectivity to Burlington, the frequency and timing of the service might not align with the needs of patients requiring regular medical appointments. Additionally, the bus stops are not always conveniently located near medical facilities, requiring additional walking or transfers. The availability of ADA-accessible features on the GMT buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that they can utilize the public transit system. However, the limited frequency and route coverage of the GMT system in Huntington underscore the challenges faced by those who depend on public transportation for healthcare access.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Burlington area but their presence in Huntington is less reliable. The availability of these services can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty can make it difficult for residents to schedule medical appointments, knowing they might not be able to secure a ride when needed. The cost of ride-share services can also be a barrier, particularly for individuals with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. Companies like Bayada Home Health Care and other private providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be a more reliable option than ride-share services, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their journey. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific needs of the individual.

The overall health score for Huntington, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderately impacted by the limitations of the local infrastructure. While the University of Vermont Medical Center and Northwestern Medical Center offer a wide range of healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present significant challenges. The availability of ride-share services is inconsistent, and the cost of medical transportation can be a barrier for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Huntington, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is essential. Those who are able to drive and have reliable access to a vehicle will likely find it easier to access medical services. However, for those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations, the challenges of accessing healthcare in Huntington are more pronounced.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding the frequency and coverage of the GMT **Route 116** bus service, particularly to align with medical appointment schedules, would be beneficial. Promoting the availability and affordability of medical transportation services could also enhance healthcare access. Furthermore, investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and snow removal, would help ensure the safety and reliability of transportation options, especially during winter.

In conclusion, while Huntington offers access to quality healthcare through nearby medical centers, the transportation infrastructure presents significant hurdles. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and ride-share options, can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations. Understanding these challenges is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Huntington, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensuring they can access the care they require.