05471, Montgomery Center, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05471, Montgomery Center, Vermont is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.70 percent of residents in 05471 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 19.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05471 (Montgomery Center, VT)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Montgomery Center, Vermont (ZIP Code 05471), requires a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical factor influencing this score is the ease with which individuals can **transport** themselves to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other health-related destinations. This analysis will examine the available **transportation** options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport resources. We will paint a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access** in this rural Vermont community, providing crucial insights for anyone **moving to Montgomery Center**.

The primary mode of **transportation** for healthcare in 05471 is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Montgomery Center is nestled within the Green Mountains, and its geographical isolation necessitates reliance on cars for most errands, including medical visits. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in larger towns, requiring residents to navigate winding roads and potentially challenging weather conditions, especially during the long Vermont winters.

For those heading south, the most direct route to larger medical centers begins on VT-118, a scenic but often narrow road. This road connects directly to VT-100, a major north-south thoroughfare. Driving south on VT-100 leads to Morrisville, approximately 30 miles away, where Copley Hospital offers a range of services. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Further south, approximately 50 miles away, is the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, a major regional hospital. The drive to Burlington, primarily via VT-100 and I-89, can take upwards of 1.5 hours, making it a significant time commitment.

Traveling north from Montgomery Center, VT-118 connects to VT-105, which eventually leads to Newport, Vermont, about 25 miles away. North Country Hospital in Newport offers a more local option. The drive to Newport is usually about 40 minutes. While this is a shorter distance, the roads can be more challenging, particularly in winter.

The reliance on personal vehicles poses several challenges to **healthcare access**. Residents without cars, or those who cannot drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints, face significant barriers. The cost of vehicle ownership, including gas, insurance, and maintenance, can be a burden, particularly for low-income individuals. Furthermore, the time commitment required for medical appointments, especially those requiring travel to Burlington, can be substantial, potentially impacting work, childcare, and other responsibilities.

Public **transportation** options in 05471 are limited, which further complicates **healthcare access**. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve Montgomery Center. For example, the GMT route 116, which serves the nearby town of Stowe, does not directly connect to Montgomery Center. This means that residents would need to find their own way to Stowe to access the bus. The lack of frequent service and the need for transfers significantly extend travel times and make public **transportation** less practical for many medical appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on GMT buses are generally present, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for long travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with disabilities. The availability of accessible bus stops in Montgomery Center is also a factor to consider, as the terrain can be challenging for those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some parts of Vermont, but their presence in rural areas like Montgomery Center is often inconsistent. The availability of drivers can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for some residents, further impacting **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves to appointments. Several companies provide non-emergency medical **transportation** in Vermont. These services typically involve scheduled rides in specialized vehicles, often with trained personnel. However, the availability of these services in Montgomery Center and the surrounding areas may be limited, and the cost can be significant.

One prominent medical transport provider is Bayada Home Health Care, which offers transportation services, including medical appointments. Another is Senior Solutions, which offers non-emergency medical transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The availability of these services and their coverage area should be confirmed.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 05471 is negatively impacted by the limited **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public **transportation**, and the potential for limited ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers to accessing timely and affordable medical care. The drive times to the nearest medical facilities, particularly those in Burlington, can be substantial, adding to the challenges.

For individuals **moving to Montgomery Center**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is crucial. Those without access to a personal vehicle should carefully consider the challenges of accessing medical care and explore alternative options, such as medical transport services or the potential for carpooling with neighbors. The availability of reliable **transportation** is a critical factor in maintaining good health and well-being in this rural Vermont community.

The local community could potentially improve **healthcare access** by advocating for increased public **transportation** services, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies, and supporting the expansion of medical transport options. Initiatives to promote carpooling and volunteer driver programs could also help to address the **transportation** challenges.

In conclusion, while Montgomery Center offers a beautiful and tranquil environment, the limitations in **transportation** options pose a significant challenge to **healthcare access**. Individuals **moving to Montgomery Center** must carefully consider these factors when assessing their overall health and well-being. The community's efforts to improve **transportation** options will be critical in ensuring that all residents have access to the medical care they need.