05827, Craftsbury Common, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05827, Craftsbury Common, Vermont is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.47 percent of residents in 05827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 20.97 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Craftsbury Common, VT (ZIP Code 05827)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Craftsbury Common, Vermont (ZIP code 05827), considering the multifaceted nature of transportation. The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical services, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Craftsbury Common, as they directly impact health outcomes and overall well-being.

The score is not a static number but a nuanced assessment, acknowledging the inherent challenges of rural healthcare access. It weighs the availability and reliability of various transportation modes against the distances to healthcare facilities, recognizing that geographic isolation presents unique hurdles. The following sections will detail each transportation aspect, providing context for the final score.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation in Craftsbury Common is the personal vehicle. This reliance on cars underscores the importance of understanding drive times to various healthcare providers. The nearest hospitals and specialist offices are located in surrounding towns and cities, necessitating travel on Vermont's network of roads.

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Route 14, Route 16, and Route 12. Traveling east on Route 14 leads to Hardwick, a town with a small hospital, Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital. The drive to Hardwick is generally around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Route 16 heads south towards Montpelier, the state capital, where several larger medical facilities and specialist practices are available. The drive to Montpelier can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Route 12 provides access to Morrisville and the Copley Hospital, a facility that is roughly 30-45 minutes away.

These drive times are estimates and can be significantly affected by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can make travel treacherous, increasing drive times and potentially limiting access to healthcare. The condition of the roads is also a factor; while Vermont maintains its roads, rural roads can be subject to wear and tear, which can make travel uncomfortable.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Craftsbury Common is limited, a common characteristic of rural communities. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus services, but the routes and schedules are designed to serve specific areas and may not be directly accessible to Craftsbury Common.

The primary GMT route that serves the surrounding area is the Route 110, which runs between Hardwick and Montpelier. However, this route does not directly pass through Craftsbury Common. Residents would need to arrange for a ride to a pick-up point along Route 14 or Route 16 to access the bus service.

The frequency of GMT service is limited, with buses running on a set schedule. This means that residents must carefully plan their trips to healthcare appointments, considering the bus schedule and the time required to travel to the pick-up point.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration for public transit. GMT buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating areas. However, the availability of accessible transportation depends on the specific bus route and the availability of accessible vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are extremely limited in Craftsbury Common. The rural nature of the area and the low population density make it challenging for these services to operate efficiently. Residents cannot rely on ride-sharing for routine healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services are available to provide specialized transport for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. These services often involve a contracted company or a volunteer network that can provide transportation to and from medical appointments.

Medical transportation services can be a valuable resource for residents who cannot drive themselves or who have difficulty using public transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate specific medical needs. However, the availability of medical transportation services may be limited, and residents may need to book appointments in advance.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for Moving:**

Access to healthcare in Craftsbury Common presents challenges that are typical of rural areas. While the community benefits from a peaceful environment and a strong sense of community, the distance to healthcare facilities and the limited transportation options can be a significant barrier.

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Craftsbury Common is impacted by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation is a significant factor, as it requires residents to own and maintain a car. The limited public transportation options and the absence of readily available ride-sharing services further constrain healthcare access.

Medical transportation services provide a valuable resource for individuals who need assistance, but their availability may be limited. The overall score will reflect these challenges, acknowledging the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure access to healthcare.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Craftsbury Common (ZIP code 05827) is considered **moderate**. While the community has access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transportation and the absence of ride-sharing services create significant barriers.

For individuals considering moving to Craftsbury Common, it is crucial to assess their transportation needs and capabilities. Owning a reliable vehicle is essential for accessing healthcare. Residents should also familiarize themselves with medical transportation services and explore options for arranging transportation to healthcare appointments.

The community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access. Supporting local volunteer driver programs, advocating for expanded public transportation options, and exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers are all viable strategies. These efforts can help to improve the Overall Health Score and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.

The assessment highlights the importance of considering transportation when evaluating the suitability of a location. While Craftsbury Common offers a desirable lifestyle, the challenges of healthcare access must be carefully weighed. Individuals who prioritize convenient access to medical services may find that Craftsbury Common presents unique challenges.