05846, Island Pond, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05846, Island Pond, Vermont is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.21 percent of residents in 05846 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 20.35 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Island Pond, Vermont (ZIP Code 05846)

Island Pond, Vermont, nestled in the heart of the Northeast Kingdom, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. This analysis focuses on the critical element of healthcare access, specifically examining transportation options within and to this rural community. The overall health score will be influenced by the availability, accessibility, and efficiency of these transportation modalities, impacting residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The primary concern for healthcare access in Island Pond revolves around its remoteness. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This dependence on transportation significantly impacts the health score, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, chronic conditions, or limited financial resources.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for healthcare appointments. Residents primarily utilize **Interstate 91 (I-91)**, the major north-south artery through Vermont, for travel outside the immediate area. Accessing I-91 from Island Pond requires navigating **Vermont Route 105**, a two-lane highway that serves as the primary east-west connector. The drive to the nearest hospital, North Country Hospital in Newport, VT, typically takes approximately 45 minutes, assuming favorable driving conditions.

The drive to larger medical centers in Burlington, VT, or Lebanon, NH, can extend to two to three hours, depending on traffic and weather. These longer travel times can present significant challenges, particularly during the harsh Vermont winters, when snow and ice can make roads treacherous. Residents must factor in the potential for delays, increasing the stress and inconvenience associated with healthcare appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in Island Pond. The **Green Mountain Transit (GMT)** offers some regional bus services, but these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. While GMT strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the limited route coverage and potential for lengthy travel times can pose significant barriers for those needing accessible transportation.

For individuals unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally unavailable in Island Pond. This lack of readily accessible ride-sharing options further restricts healthcare access, leaving residents reliant on family, friends, or specialized medical transport services.

Medical transport services, while available, can be costly and require advance planning. Ambulance services are primarily for emergency situations. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, such as private ambulance companies or specialized transportation services, offer scheduled rides to medical appointments. However, availability may be limited, and insurance coverage for NEMT services varies.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers within Island Pond. The presence of a primary care physician, a dentist, and other essential healthcare professionals can mitigate the need for frequent travel to distant facilities. However, the scarcity of specialists and advanced medical services within the community necessitates travel for more complex medical needs.

The demographics of Island Pond also play a significant role in the overall health score. An aging population and a higher percentage of individuals with chronic conditions can increase the demand for healthcare services and exacerbate the challenges associated with transportation. The economic status of the community also impacts healthcare access, as transportation costs can be a significant financial burden for low-income residents.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Island Pond. The ability to easily and reliably access medical care is a fundamental aspect of overall health and well-being. The challenges associated with transportation in this rural community can negatively affect health outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations.

The local healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services, is another crucial component of the health score. The presence of a well-equipped and staffed local clinic or medical center can significantly improve healthcare access and reduce the need for long-distance travel.

The overall health score for Island Pond, Vermont, is therefore influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The remoteness of the community, the limited public transportation options, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized medical transport all contribute to the challenges of healthcare access. The availability of local healthcare providers, the demographics of the community, and the economic status of the residents further shape the overall health score.

For prospective residents, a thorough understanding of these transportation and healthcare access considerations is essential. Evaluating the availability of reliable transportation options, assessing the proximity to medical facilities, and understanding the potential costs associated with healthcare travel are crucial steps in making an informed decision about moving to Island Pond.

The overall health score for Island Pond, 05846, is a reflection of the complex relationship between transportation and healthcare access. While the natural beauty and tranquility of the area are undeniable, the limitations in transportation options and the distance to medical facilities pose significant challenges. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone prioritizing their health and well-being when considering moving to this rural Vermont community. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is paramount to receiving timely and appropriate medical care, ultimately influencing the overall health score for residents of Island Pond.