05874, Westfield, Vermont Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 05874, Westfield, Vermont is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.01 percent of residents in 05874 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 12.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05874

This comprehensive analysis assesses the ease of accessing healthcare within and around ZIP Code 05874 (Westfield, Vermont), focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall health. This "Overall Health Score" considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. The goal is to inform residents, potential movers, and policymakers on the existing landscape and potential improvements.

Westfield, nestled in the heart of Vermont, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. Its rural setting, while offering scenic beauty and a close-knit community, often translates to longer travel distances and limited transportation choices. This write-up examines the existing infrastructure and services, offering a detailed perspective on the realities of commuting to healthcare appointments for residents of 05874.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation in and out of Westfield is by personal vehicle. The town is served by several key roads, including Vermont Route 100, a north-south artery that connects Westfield to neighboring towns and larger population centers. Traveling south on Route 100 provides access to Newport, approximately a 20-minute drive, where residents can find a hospital, several clinics, and specialist practices.

Heading north on Route 100 takes residents towards Jay, a 15-minute drive, and eventually to the Canadian border. While Jay offers some medical services, the more comprehensive healthcare options are predominantly located in Newport. Access to these facilities is relatively straightforward, yet the reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of vehicle ownership and maintenance for residents.

Other key roads include Route 118, which connects Westfield to Montgomery Center and eventually to the town of Montgomery. This route provides an alternative path to medical facilities, but it's typically less direct than Route 100. The roads are generally well-maintained, especially during the winter months, but weather conditions can significantly impact travel times and safety.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, with Newport being the primary destination for most medical needs. However, the drive times can be affected by weather conditions, traffic, and the availability of a personal vehicle. This dependence on personal transportation underscores the need for alternative transportation options.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in and around Westfield are limited, a common challenge in rural areas. The primary public transit provider is the Orleans County Transportation Agency (OCTA). OCTA operates a demand-response service, meaning that rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available to all residents, including those with disabilities, and provides door-to-door service.

The OCTA service can be a valuable resource for residents who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive. However, the need to schedule rides in advance and the potential for longer travel times due to shared rides can be a significant drawback. The service is ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The availability of public transit is a crucial factor in healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. While OCTA provides a vital service, the limited frequency and the need for advance scheduling can present challenges for residents with urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Westfield or the surrounding areas. This lack of ride-sharing options further limits transportation choices, especially for those who may need immediate or unscheduled medical care. The absence of these services emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or the need for pre-arranged transportation.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for residents with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical care. Several medical transport providers serve the area, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. These services are primarily used for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities.

The availability of medical transport services is a critical aspect of healthcare access, especially for individuals with disabilities or those with chronic health conditions. These services can provide a safe and reliable means of transportation, ensuring that residents can receive the medical care they need.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Westfield:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 05874 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The drive times to Newport are reasonable, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The absence of ride-sharing services further restricts transportation choices.

For individuals considering moving to Westfield, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. While the town offers a tranquil lifestyle and a close-knit community, prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score is influenced by the following considerations:

* **Drive Times:** While manageable, they are dependent on weather conditions and the availability of a vehicle.
* **Public Transit:** OCTA provides a valuable service, but the need for advance scheduling and potential for longer travel times can be a challenge.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The absence of Uber and Lyft significantly limits transportation choices.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of ambulance and NEMT services is crucial for those with mobility limitations or specialized needs.

The "Overall Health Score" for 05874 is moderate, with room for improvement. Enhancements to public transit, the potential introduction of ride-sharing services, and the continued support of medical transport providers would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. These improvements would contribute to a healthier and more accessible community, making Westfield an even more attractive place to live. The ability to easily access healthcare is a critical factor in overall well-being, and addressing the transportation challenges is essential for promoting a healthy community.