05495, Williston, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05495, Williston, Vermont is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.55 percent of residents in 05495 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Univ. Of Vermont - Fletcher Allen Health Care with a distance of 6.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Williston, Vermont (ZIP Code 05495)

This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in Williston, Vermont (ZIP Code 05495), considering various transportation modalities. It aims to inform individuals contemplating moving to Williston and assess the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. The score encompasses drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

Williston, a thriving Chittenden County community, offers a blend of suburban and rural living, presenting unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town’s proximity to Burlington, the state’s largest city, significantly influences its healthcare landscape. However, reliance on personal vehicles remains a dominant factor in navigating the area.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Williston is the personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfare, Interstate 89 (I-89), provides a direct route to many major medical facilities. Reaching the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, a regional hub, typically takes around 15-20 minutes during non-peak hours. Peak-hour traffic, especially during the morning and evening commutes, can extend this to 30 minutes or more.

Travel to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within Williston, often accessible via **US Route 2** and **Vermont Route 2A**, is generally swift, averaging 5-10 minutes. These routes are crucial for accessing immediate medical attention and routine check-ups.

Heading north on I-89 offers access to facilities in Essex Junction, a neighboring town. This drive, generally taking 10-15 minutes, provides an alternative for specialized care or services. Understanding these drive times is crucial for residents, especially those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

**Public Transportation:**

The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) system offers public transportation within the Chittenden County region, including Williston. Several routes serve the area, connecting it to Burlington and surrounding towns. The primary route serving Williston is Route 11, which provides frequent service along **US Route 2**. This route offers connections to other GMT lines, expanding healthcare access to facilities beyond Williston.

Route 11 buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may pose a challenge for those requiring timely medical attention. Careful planning and consideration of the bus schedule are crucial when relying on public transportation.

The availability of public transportation is a significant asset, especially for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. However, the reliance on a fixed schedule and potential for delays must be considered.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Williston area, providing an alternative transportation option. While availability may vary depending on the time of day and demand, these services offer a convenient way to reach healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes.

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 specialized assistance. Several providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private transportation companies. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive themselves and lack access to other transportation options.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

Several medical transportation brands serve the Williston area. These include local ambulance services, which can provide emergency and non-emergency transport. Additionally, private companies specializing in medical transportation offer scheduled rides for appointments. Researching these options and understanding their services, costs, and insurance coverage is essential for residents.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The “Overall Health Score” for Williston reflects a mixed picture. The town benefits from its proximity to Burlington and the presence of major medical facilities. Drive times are generally manageable, especially for routine appointments. However, reliance on personal vehicles remains high, potentially creating challenges for those without access to a car.

Public transportation provides a viable alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency and schedule must be acknowledged. Ride-sharing services offer flexibility but can be expensive. Medical transportation services provide a crucial safety net for individuals with specific needs.

**Moving to Williston and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Williston, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Assess your transportation needs and preferences, considering your health status and potential healthcare requirements. Factor in the cost of transportation, the availability of public transit, and the potential need for ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

**Conclusion:**

Williston offers a relatively good level of healthcare access, especially given its location within Chittenden County. The “Overall Health Score” is positive, reflecting a combination of convenient drive times, available public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation options. However, residents must be proactive in planning their transportation to medical appointments, considering their individual needs and circumstances. A well-informed approach to healthcare access is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being in Williston.