05821, Barnet, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05821, Barnet, Vermont is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.10 percent of residents in 05821 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital with a distance of 10.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05821 (Barnet, Vermont)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Barnet, Vermont (ZIP Code 05821), necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access, primarily focusing on the crucial element of transportation. This rural community, nestled in the Northeast Kingdom, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to reaching medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the ease – or difficulty – with which residents can access essential healthcare services. Understanding these factors is vital for anyone considering moving to Barnet, ensuring they can maintain their health and well-being.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Barnet is the reliance on personal vehicles. The region's topography, characterized by rolling hills and winding roads, makes walking or cycling impractical for most medical appointments. The absence of sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes further compounds this issue. Therefore, the overall health score is heavily influenced by the efficiency and reliability of vehicular transportation.

Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities are a critical component. The nearest full-service hospital, **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center**, is a significant drive, approximately 60 miles away, typically taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes via **Interstate 91 South** and **Interstate 89 North**. This journey can be particularly challenging during Vermont's harsh winters, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of accidents.

Closer options include smaller clinics and urgent care facilities. The **Caledonia Hospital** in nearby St. Johnsbury, approximately 15 miles away, offers a more accessible alternative. The drive, primarily on **U.S. Route 5**, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This facility provides a range of services, including primary care, specialty clinics, and emergency care, making it a vital resource for Barnet residents.

Further reducing drive times, **Littleton Regional Healthcare** in Littleton, New Hampshire, is approximately 25 miles away. This drive typically takes around 40 minutes via **U.S. Route 302** and offers a range of services. However, the proximity to the New Hampshire border also introduces the consideration of insurance coverage and out-of-state healthcare policies.

Public transit options in Barnet are limited. The primary provider is **Rural Community Transportation (RCT)**, which offers demand-response services. While RCT provides a crucial lifeline for some residents, its availability is often restricted by scheduling and geographic limitations. Routes and schedules are subject to change. Individuals requiring transportation must contact RCT in advance to arrange a ride, which may not always align with medical appointment times.

RCT's services are often the only option for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, or those with disabilities. However, the lack of fixed routes and frequent service frequency limits its effectiveness in providing reliable and timely access to healthcare. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. However, even with ADA-compliant vehicles, the need for advance booking and potential wait times can present challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas, but their presence in Barnet is limited. The availability of drivers can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for low-income individuals, further impacting their healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance. **Ambulance services** are available for emergencies, but their use is restricted to urgent medical situations. **Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)** providers, such as **LogistiCare** or **Molina Healthcare**, may be contracted by insurance companies to provide transportation for appointments. However, the availability and coverage of NEMT services vary depending on the individual's insurance plan and the specific medical needs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Barnet, Vermont, is moderate. While the presence of nearby healthcare facilities, such as Caledonia Hospital, provides a degree of accessibility, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit options, and the inconsistency of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. The long drive times to larger hospitals and the potential for weather-related disruptions further impact the score.

For individuals moving to Barnet, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Careful planning is essential for ensuring reliable access to healthcare. This includes considering the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for travel-related delays.

Furthermore, the community's efforts to improve healthcare access play a vital role in raising the overall health score. Initiatives to expand public transit options, promote ride-sharing programs, and support NEMT services can significantly improve healthcare access for all residents. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and winter weather preparedness, can also contribute to safer and more reliable transportation.

The overall health score is also influenced by the individual's ability to manage their health proactively. This includes seeking preventative care, adhering to medication schedules, and communicating effectively with healthcare providers. The availability of telehealth services can also play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access, particularly for individuals living in rural areas.

In conclusion, while Barnet offers a close-knit community and access to essential healthcare services, the transportation challenges significantly impact the overall health score. The reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the inconsistency of ride-sharing services require careful consideration. Individuals considering moving to Barnet must factor in these transportation limitations and proactively plan for their healthcare needs. Continued community efforts to improve healthcare access, coupled with individual health management strategies, are essential for ensuring the well-being of all residents.