05847, Lowell, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05847, Lowell, Vermont is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.23 percent of residents in 05847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 16.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05847

The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 05847, assesses the overall health score based on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Lowell.

ZIP Code 05847, nestled in the heart of Vermont, presents a unique challenge. Its rural nature means healthcare facilities are often spread out, and transportation options are limited compared to urban centers. This geographical reality significantly impacts the overall health score. The score reflects the realities of the area, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the existing infrastructure.

**Drive Time and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation in 05847 for accessing healthcare is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The quality of the road network and the distances involved are key factors in determining the overall health score. Residents rely heavily on state highways and local roads to reach their appointments.

The major thoroughfare serving the area is **Vermont Route 100**, a vital artery connecting several towns and villages. Travel times along Route 100 to the nearest hospitals and clinics vary depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the time of day. During peak hours, congestion can add significant time to the commute.

**Vermont Route 2** provides another essential route, particularly for those heading east or west. While generally less congested than Route 100, it still contributes to travel times. Access to the interstate system, **Interstate 91**, requires navigating local roads, adding to the overall travel duration.

Drive times to the nearest major healthcare facilities, such as North Country Hospital in Newport and Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin, can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the starting point and traffic conditions. This extended travel time directly impacts the health score, potentially delaying access to critical care.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in 05847 is limited, which significantly lowers the overall health score. The lack of robust public transit is a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

The **Green Mountain Transit (GMT)** provides some bus service in the area, but its routes are often infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. The schedules and routes need to be carefully considered to ensure they align with appointment times.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. The availability of ADA-compliant buses and services is essential to ensure equitable access to healthcare. The lack of frequent and accessible public transit options in this ZIP code presents a challenge.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in 05847 is limited. This scarcity reduces the options for those who do not drive or have access to a vehicle. The lack of reliable ride-sharing services negatively impacts the overall health score.

Medical transport services play a crucial role in bridging the gap for individuals who cannot drive themselves to appointments. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. However, availability and cost can vary, and these services may require advance booking.

**Medical Transport Services:**

**AmCare Ambulance Service** is a regional provider of ambulance and medical transport services. They offer non-emergency transportation, but availability can be a factor.

**Northeast Ambulance Service** is another provider in the area. They provide similar services, and their coverage area may extend into 05847.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score:**

Several factors influence the overall health score in 05847. The rural nature of the area, the distances to healthcare facilities, and the limited public transit options all contribute to a lower score. The reliance on personal vehicles, while common, can be a barrier for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

The availability of ride-sharing services is a critical factor. The lack of robust ride-sharing options further reduces the overall score. Medical transport services can help fill the gap, but their availability and cost can vary.

**Impact on Healthcare Access:**

The transportation challenges in 05847 directly impact healthcare access. Longer travel times can lead to delayed appointments, missed appointments, and reduced access to preventive care. This can negatively affect health outcomes, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention.

The lack of convenient transportation options can also contribute to social isolation and limit access to other essential services, further impacting the overall health and well-being of the community.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving the overall health score in 05847 requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transit options is crucial. This could involve expanding bus routes, increasing frequency, and improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to increase their availability in the area is another potential solution. Subsidizing or providing financial assistance for medical transport services could also help improve access for those who need it most.

Promoting telehealth services and remote patient monitoring can reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up care. Telehealth can be a valuable tool to improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 05847 is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options available. The rural nature of the area, the distances to medical facilities, and the lack of robust public transit and ride-sharing services pose significant challenges.

Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations. Investing in improved transportation infrastructure, expanding public transit options, and promoting telehealth services can significantly improve healthcare access and the overall health and well-being of the residents of 05847. For those considering moving to Lowell, careful consideration of these transportation challenges is essential.