05464, Jeffersonville, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05464, Jeffersonville, Vermont is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.15 percent of residents in 05464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Copley Hospital with a distance of 12.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Jeffersonville, Vermont (ZIP Code 05464)

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of Jeffersonville, Vermont (ZIP Code 05464), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access. We delve into the complexities of transportation, analyzing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This comprehensive evaluation aims to inform potential residents considering moving to Jeffersonville, offering a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing medical care.

The health score is influenced by the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach necessary medical appointments, including routine check-ups, specialist consultations, and emergency services. Factors considered include the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the overall accessibility of these services for individuals with varying needs and abilities. Understanding these nuances is paramount in assessing the overall health and well-being of the Jeffersonville community.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions:**

Jeffersonville, nestled in the heart of Vermont, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities is via Route 15, a winding two-lane highway that connects Jeffersonville to larger towns and cities. The drive to the nearest hospital, the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, is approximately 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive primarily involves navigating Route 15 East, which can be particularly challenging during winter months due to snow and ice.

Further east, accessing medical services in the town of Morrisville requires a drive of roughly 20 to 30 minutes via Route 100. This route offers a slightly more direct path, but it also experiences heavy traffic during peak hours, particularly during the ski season. The conditions of these roads are generally well-maintained, but the mountainous terrain and variable weather patterns can significantly impact travel times and safety. Residents should be prepared for potential delays and consider the need for all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicles during winter.

Accessing specialized care in Montpelier requires a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily via Route 100 North and Interstate 89 South. While Interstate 89 provides a faster route, it can also be subject to heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. Road conditions on these highways are generally good, but potential hazards such as wildlife crossings and construction zones can affect travel times.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Jeffersonville are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service to the area, but its routes and schedules are infrequent, especially on weekends and evenings. The primary route serving Jeffersonville is the Route 116/117, which connects to Burlington. However, this route operates on a limited schedule, with service primarily focused on weekdays.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. GMT offers ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, the limited frequency of service and the long travel times can pose significant challenges for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments or emergency care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Burlington area, but their presence in Jeffersonville is sporadic. Availability is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable and potentially costly.

Medical transportation services are available for individuals who are unable to drive or utilize public transportation. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, offering transportation to and from medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may have limited availability.

Emergency medical services (EMS) are provided by the Jeffersonville Volunteer Fire Department. Response times can vary depending on the location of the emergency and the availability of personnel. The nearest hospital with a fully equipped emergency room is the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in Jeffersonville, Vermont (ZIP Code 05464), is moderately impacted by transportation challenges. While the community benefits from proximity to several hospitals and medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for long drive times, particularly during winter, present significant hurdles.

The reliance on personal vehicles is a primary factor influencing healthcare access. Residents without access to a car or those unable to drive due to age, disability, or other limitations face significant barriers to accessing medical care. The limited frequency of public transportation services exacerbates this issue, leaving vulnerable populations with few viable alternatives.

The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline for some individuals. However, the need for advance booking and the potential for limited availability can create additional challenges, particularly for those requiring urgent or unscheduled medical care.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Jeffersonville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing medical services. Exploring the availability of medical transportation services and establishing a network of support within the community is also highly recommended.

The local community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access. This could include advocating for increased public transportation service, partnering with ride-sharing companies to enhance availability, and expanding the availability of medical transportation services. Promoting carpooling programs and exploring the possibility of establishing a community-based transportation service could also improve healthcare access for residents.

The overall health score for Jeffersonville reflects the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access. By addressing the transportation challenges and promoting community-based solutions, the community can enhance the well-being of its residents and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The focus must remain on improving transportation options to enhance healthcare access for all, thereby improving the overall health score for the community.