05465, Jericho, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05465, Jericho, Vermont is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.12 percent of residents in 05465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Univ. Of Vermont - Fletcher Allen Health Care with a distance of 11.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Jericho, VT (ZIP Code 05465)

Jericho, Vermont, nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, offers a picturesque New England charm. Its residents enjoy a strong sense of community and access to outdoor recreation. However, when considering overall health, a crucial factor emerges: **healthcare access**. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 05465, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical services. This analysis is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Jericho**, as it directly impacts their health and well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Jericho, VT, is influenced by several key elements. These include the distance to medical facilities, the mode of **transportation** available, and the reliability of these options. We'll examine the primary methods of reaching healthcare providers, from private vehicles to public transit, and assess their respective strengths and weaknesses. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing residents in accessing healthcare.

Driving is the most common method of **transportation** for Jericho residents. The town is served primarily by US Route 2, a major east-west artery. Accessing larger medical facilities in Burlington, approximately 20 miles west, necessitates travel on US-2. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, particularly morning and evening commutes, congestion can significantly extend travel times.

The secondary route, VT-15, offers an alternative, especially for accessing facilities in the neighboring towns of Essex and Underhill. This route provides a more scenic drive but may involve more winding roads and slower speeds. Residents heading south towards Waterbury or Montpelier will likely utilize VT-15, connecting to I-89.

For residents without personal vehicles, or for those seeking to avoid the stress of driving, public **transportation** options exist, although they are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service to and from Jericho. Route 116, while not directly serving Jericho, runs through the nearby town of Essex, offering connections to Burlington. This requires a transfer, which adds to the overall travel time.

GMT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, is limited. This can pose a significant challenge for individuals needing urgent medical care or those with mobility limitations.

The primary medical facilities serving Jericho residents are located outside of the town. The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington offers a comprehensive range of services, including specialized care. The commute to UVMMC is the most common destination for residents. Other options include smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in Essex and Colchester.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Burlington area, including Jericho. However, their availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. Several providers operate in the Burlington area, including specialized non-emergency medical **transportation** companies. However, these services require advance booking and can be costly.

The availability of these services is crucial for those who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of **transportation**. The cost and scheduling complexities of these services can, however, pose challenges.

The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the limited public **transportation** options, presents a significant challenge for residents of Jericho. While driving offers the most direct route, traffic and weather conditions can impact travel times. The reliance on private vehicles can also be a burden for those without access to a car or who are unable to drive.

The lack of robust public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services further exacerbate the issue. This situation highlights the need for improved **transportation** infrastructure and increased access to affordable and reliable **transportation** options for Jericho residents.

For individuals **moving to Jericho**, it is essential to consider the implications of **healthcare access**. Prospective residents should assess their individual healthcare needs and determine whether the available **transportation** options meet those needs. This includes considering the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized care, and the ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape.

The overall health score for Jericho, VT, is therefore influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The town's rural location, while offering a desirable lifestyle, presents challenges in accessing healthcare. The availability of private vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the cost of alternative **transportation** services all contribute to the overall score.

The score could be improved by increasing the frequency and coverage of public transit, particularly on weekends and evenings. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as dedicated bus lanes, could also reduce travel times. Furthermore, expanding the availability of affordable ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services would benefit residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who lack access to a personal vehicle.

Ultimately, the ability of Jericho residents to access healthcare is a crucial determinant of their overall health and well-being. Understanding the **transportation** landscape and the challenges it presents is essential for residents, policymakers, and healthcare providers alike. This understanding is particularly important for those **moving to Jericho**, who must factor in **healthcare access** when making their relocation decisions.