05826, Craftsbury, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05826, Craftsbury, Vermont is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.29 percent of residents in 05826 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital with a distance of 22.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05826 (Craftsbury, Vermont)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Craftsbury, Vermont (ZIP Code 05826) requires a deep dive into their access to healthcare, a critical component of overall well-being. This analysis focuses on the transportation infrastructure, a significant determinant of healthcare access, and considers the challenges and opportunities for those residing in this rural community. The score will reflect the ease, or lack thereof, with which residents can reach medical facilities, influencing their ability to receive timely and appropriate care. For anyone **moving to Craftsbury**, understanding these factors is paramount.

The primary challenge in 05826 is its rurality. This translates to longer travel times to healthcare providers compared to more urban areas. The landscape is beautiful, with rolling hills and picturesque views, but the very features that attract people to the area also present transportation hurdles. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, making access contingent on car ownership and driving ability.

The primary roadways serving Craftsbury are Route 14 and Route 12. Route 14, running north-south, connects Craftsbury to neighboring towns like Hardwick and Greensboro, providing access to essential services, including primary care physicians and urgent care facilities. Route 12, running east-west, links Craftsbury to Wolcott and Morrisville, where more specialized medical services, including hospitals, are available. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Vermont winters, impacting drive times and potentially hindering access to care.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the specific location within the ZIP code. A trip to the Copley Hospital in Morrisville, for instance, can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the starting point in Craftsbury and traffic conditions. Reaching the North Country Hospital in Newport, a more comprehensive facility, requires a drive of around an hour, utilizing Routes 14 and 100. For routine appointments with primary care physicians in Hardwick or Greensboro, the drive is typically shorter, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes.

Public transportation options are limited in 05826. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some service in the region, but its routes are infrequent and primarily serve larger towns and cities. The primary route relevant to Craftsbury residents is the Route 116, which connects Hardwick to Montpelier. However, this route does not directly pass through Craftsbury, necessitating a drive to Hardwick to access the bus service. The frequency of the Route 116 is limited, with only a few trips per day, making it an impractical option for most medical appointments. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the GMT buses should be confirmed for those with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent and availability is often limited, especially in rural areas like Craftsbury. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore not a reliable option. The response times and the availability of drivers are crucial considerations.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to transportation. Several providers operate in the region, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transport. These services require advance booking and may involve fees. The availability of these services, however, is not always guaranteed, and the cost can be a barrier for some residents.

The distance to specialized medical services is another factor impacting the overall health score. For specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, residents of 05826 often need to travel to larger medical centers in Burlington or Lebanon, New Hampshire. These trips can involve drive times of two hours or more, significantly increasing the time commitment and logistical challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

The lack of local pharmacies is another consideration. Residents typically need to drive to Hardwick or Morrisville to fill prescriptions, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access. The availability of telehealth services can partially mitigate this issue, providing access to remote consultations and prescription refills.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 05826 is, therefore, moderate, reflecting the challenges of rural living. While the community benefits from the beauty of the Green Mountains, the **transportation** infrastructure presents significant hurdles to accessing timely and convenient healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to this score.

The score is further impacted by the distance to specialized medical facilities and the lack of local pharmacies. However, the presence of medical **transportation** services and the increasing availability of telehealth services provide some mitigation.

To improve the health score, several strategies could be implemented. Increasing the frequency and reach of public **transportation**, particularly routes connecting Craftsbury to neighboring towns with healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services and ensuring their consistent availability is another potential solution.

Expanding the availability of telehealth services, including access to reliable internet connectivity, would allow residents to access remote consultations and manage their health needs more efficiently. Supporting local initiatives that promote health and wellness, such as community health programs and mobile clinics, could also improve the overall health score.

For those **moving to Craftsbury**, it is essential to understand the **healthcare access** limitations and plan accordingly. Researching the locations of healthcare providers, understanding the drive times, and exploring the available **transportation** options are crucial steps. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in a nearby town and identifying backup **transportation** options are also recommended.

The overall health score in 05826 is a reflection of the community's strengths and weaknesses. The beauty of the area and the strong sense of community are positive factors. However, the challenges of rural living, particularly the limitations in **healthcare access**, must be carefully considered. By acknowledging these challenges and implementing strategic solutions, the community can work towards improving the overall health score and ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.