05670, South Barre, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05670, South Barre, Vermont is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 05670 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Central Vermont Medical Center with a distance of 1.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05670

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for healthcare access within ZIP code 05670, encompassing South Barre, Vermont. The score considers various modes of **transportation**, drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. This information is crucial for anyone considering **moving to South Barre**, Vermont, and prioritizing their **healthcare access**. Understanding the logistical challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare in this area is paramount for informed decision-making.

The overall health score is a composite, weighing factors like proximity to medical facilities, the ease of reaching them via different transport methods, and the availability of services catering to diverse needs. It aims to offer a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape, allowing residents to make informed choices about their health and well-being.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

The primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in 05670 is personal vehicle. The reliance on cars shapes the healthcare experience significantly. Driving times to essential medical facilities vary depending on location within the ZIP code and the specific facility.

The Central Vermont Medical Center (CVMC) in Berlin, a major regional hospital, is a critical destination. Residents in South Barre can expect a drive time of approximately 10-15 minutes, primarily utilizing Route 14 and potentially Route 64. This is generally considered a reasonable commute, providing relatively quick access to emergency care and specialized services.

For specialized care or appointments at facilities in Montpelier, the state capital, the drive time extends to roughly 20-30 minutes. This journey typically involves Route 14 and US Route 2, offering a scenic but potentially slower route, particularly during peak traffic hours.

Access to facilities further afield, such as those in Burlington or Lebanon, New Hampshire, significantly increases drive times. Burlington, with its University of Vermont Medical Center, could require a drive of 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, primarily via Interstate 89. Lebanon, home to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, is also a similar drive, traversing Interstate 89 and US Route 4. These longer distances necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in 05670 are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service in the area, but its routes and frequency are not extensive.

Route 100, a key route, connects Montpelier and Barre, passing through South Barre. This route provides a potential connection to healthcare facilities in Montpelier and Barre, but its schedule may not align perfectly with appointment times. The buses are generally equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The frequency of Route 100, however, is a significant factor. Service is typically less frequent on weekends and evenings, potentially limiting access to healthcare during these times. This underscores the importance of planning and considering alternative **transportation** options.

Other GMT routes, such as those serving the Barre area, might offer additional connections, but require transfers and extended travel times. The lack of a comprehensive public transit network in the area is a key limitation for **healthcare access** for those unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially in rural areas like South Barre. The reliability of these services can be a concern, particularly for urgent medical needs.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals requiring assistance. These services cater to patients who need non-emergency medical transport to appointments or other healthcare facilities.

The availability of these services is a positive aspect of the healthcare landscape. However, the cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier for some individuals, highlighting the need for exploring insurance coverage and financial assistance programs.

**The Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 05670 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to CVMC and the relatively short drive times to Montpelier are positive aspects. However, the limited public transit options and the potential challenges of ride-sharing availability introduce complexities.

The reliance on personal vehicles emphasizes the importance of car ownership for accessing healthcare. For those without a car, the limited public transit and the potential costs associated with medical transport services pose significant barriers.

The score also considers the potential impact of longer drive times to specialized facilities in Burlington or Lebanon. These longer distances can be a significant burden, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The health score for 05670 emphasizes the importance of careful planning and consideration when it comes to healthcare access. While the proximity to CVMC offers a significant advantage, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services require proactive strategies.

For those **moving to South Barre**, understanding these nuances is crucial. Assessing your individual needs, exploring available resources, and developing a **transportation** plan are essential steps. The health score underscores the importance of being informed and proactive in navigating the healthcare landscape.

The healthcare landscape in 05670 requires a nuanced understanding. While the area offers access to essential medical facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful consideration. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive overview, empowering residents to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.