05822, Barton, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05822, Barton, Vermont is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.31 percent of residents in 05822 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 14.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05822 (Barton, Vermont)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 05822, focusing specifically on the critical element of healthcare accessibility. This analysis considers the diverse transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone considering moving to Barton, Vermont, or seeking to understand the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing medical care within this rural area.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Barton, Vermont, is the reliance on personal **transportation**. The town’s geographical isolation and the dispersed nature of its population necessitate a dependence on automobiles for the majority of residents. This reality significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for individuals with limited mobility, those who cannot drive, or those lacking reliable vehicle ownership. The ability to navigate the road network is therefore paramount.

For residents of 05822, the most direct route to significant medical facilities often involves traveling along **Vermont Route 16** and **Vermont Route 122**. These roadways, while scenic, can present challenges during Vermont's harsh winters. Snow and ice accumulation can impede travel, increasing drive times and the risk of accidents. Further travel to larger hospitals may necessitate using **Interstate 91 (I-91)**, which offers a more direct, albeit longer, route to facilities in larger towns and cities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on the specific destination and the prevailing traffic and weather conditions. The nearest urgent care facility is located in Orleans, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 16. The North Country Hospital in Newport, a more comprehensive facility, is roughly a 30-40 minute drive via Route 100 and Route 105. For specialized care or tertiary facilities, residents often travel to Burlington, a journey that can easily exceed two hours via I-91.

Public **transportation** options in Barton are limited, which significantly affects the overall health score. The lack of robust public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some service, but routes and schedules are often infrequent and primarily focused on connecting larger towns and cities. This service may not be readily accessible to all residents, especially those living in more remote areas or with mobility limitations.

GMT route 87, serving the Northeast Kingdom, is the closest route to Barton. This route may offer some access to medical facilities, but its frequency and coverage are limited, and it may not be a viable option for all appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, even with ADA features, the limited frequency of service can still pose a challenge to healthcare access.

While public transit options are limited, the emergence of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers offers alternative solutions. However, the availability and affordability of these services are crucial factors. Ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft may operate in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport individuals to medical appointments, play a vital role in bridging the healthcare access gap. Several medical transport providers operate in Vermont, including specialized ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) companies. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, those who cannot drive, or those requiring assistance during their journey. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant barrier, and insurance coverage varies.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 05822 is influenced by the availability of these services. Medical **transportation** brands such as MedStar and American Medical Response may be available in the area, offering specialized services to patients. However, the effectiveness of these services hinges on their affordability, reliability, and the ability to meet the specific needs of the patient.

The consideration of healthcare access must extend beyond the physical journey. Telemedicine and virtual appointments offer an increasingly important avenue for accessing healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The availability of reliable internet connectivity is, therefore, a critical factor. The health score is negatively impacted by poor internet access, as it limits the ability to utilize telemedicine services, receive remote monitoring, and access online patient portals.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 05822 is moderate, reflecting the challenges inherent in a rural environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost of medical **transportation** services all contribute to the difficulties residents face in accessing healthcare. However, the presence of ride-sharing services, the increasing availability of telemedicine, and the efforts of medical transport providers offer some mitigation.

Moving to Barton requires a careful assessment of individual healthcare needs and the available **transportation** options. For those without reliable access to a personal vehicle, the limited public transit options and the potential cost of medical **transportation** services must be carefully considered. The availability of telemedicine services and the reliability of internet connectivity are also crucial factors.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in 05822 is a complex issue. While the community benefits from the presence of medical **transportation** providers and the potential for telemedicine, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the geographical isolation present significant challenges. Improving healthcare access in Barton requires a multi-faceted approach, including expanding public transit options, supporting medical **transportation** services, and enhancing access to telemedicine and affordable healthcare. This is a key consideration for anyone contemplating **moving to Barton**.