05867, Sutton, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05867, Sutton, Vermont is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.46 percent of residents in 05867 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital with a distance of 14.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Sutton, Vermont (ZIP Code 05867)

Considering a move to the charming town of Sutton, Vermont (ZIP code 05867)? Beyond the picturesque landscapes and close-knit community, a crucial factor to consider is healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare facilities from Sutton, factoring in transportation options, drive times, and accessibility. Understanding these elements is vital for making an informed decision about your well-being and the practicality of settling in this rural Vermont haven.

Sutton, nestled in the Northeast Kingdom, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The town's relative remoteness, while contributing to its tranquility, necessitates careful consideration of transportation options for medical appointments and emergencies. The Overall Health Score reflects the realities of accessing care from this specific location.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare in Sutton is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The town's sparse population and limited public transit options mean that driving is often the most direct and convenient route. However, the distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for inclement weather, particularly during Vermont's long winters, are significant factors to weigh.

The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities from Sutton involves traveling on **Vermont Route 114** south. This scenic but winding road eventually connects to **Interstate 91** (I-91), a major north-south artery that provides access to larger towns and cities with hospitals and specialized medical services. The drive to the nearest hospital, **North Country Hospital** in Newport, is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

For those seeking specialized care or more comprehensive medical facilities, a drive to **Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center** in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is often necessary. This journey involves traveling south on I-91, and can take anywhere from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. This longer drive time is a significant consideration, particularly for those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical attention.

Public transportation options in Sutton are extremely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system, and the availability of buses or trains for medical appointments is minimal. This significantly impacts the Overall Health Score, as it limits options for those who do not drive or cannot drive.

While there are no scheduled public bus routes directly serving Sutton, the **Rural Transportation Authority** (RTA) offers demand-response transportation services in the region. This service, however, requires advance booking and is primarily intended for essential trips, including medical appointments. The RTA's vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking can make this a less-than-ideal solution for urgent medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also not readily available in Sutton. Their presence is sporadic, and their reliability for timely transportation to medical appointments is questionable. This further reduces the Overall Health Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a more viable option. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve pre-scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments, often utilizing specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

**Medicaid** and other insurance programs often cover the cost of NEMT services, making them a more accessible option for some residents. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the specific insurance plan and the distance to the healthcare facility. Booking in advance is crucial to ensure availability, especially during peak times.

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Sutton is moderate, primarily due to the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly those offering specialized care, are significant, and the lack of public transit and ride-sharing services further compounds the challenges.

The remoteness of Sutton presents a unique set of considerations for those prioritizing healthcare access. While the town offers a peaceful and idyllic lifestyle, the practicalities of getting to medical appointments must be carefully considered. The availability of medical transportation services, although helpful, requires pre-planning and coordination.

For individuals considering moving to Sutton, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and their ability to manage the transportation challenges is essential. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical attention may find the drive times and limited transportation options to be a significant drawback.

Conversely, those who are generally healthy, have reliable transportation, and are willing to plan their medical appointments in advance may find Sutton to be a suitable location. The Overall Health Score, therefore, is not a definitive judgment but a starting point for a personalized assessment.

The Overall Health Score is also influenced by the weather. Vermont winters can bring heavy snow, ice, and reduced visibility, making driving conditions hazardous and increasing travel times. This adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility issues or health conditions that are exacerbated by cold weather.

In summary, the Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Sutton, Vermont, is contingent on individual circumstances and priorities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the distance to healthcare facilities are key considerations. However, the availability of medical transportation services and the town's proximity to major highways offer some mitigation.

For those contemplating moving to Sutton, a comprehensive evaluation of their healthcare needs, their ability to drive or access alternative transportation, and their comfort level with the potential challenges of rural healthcare access is essential. This thorough assessment will help determine if Sutton is the right fit for their lifestyle and healthcare requirements. The Overall Health Score, while not a definitive rating, serves as a valuable tool for making an informed decision.