05346, Putney, Vermont Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 05346, Putney, Vermont is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.76 percent of residents in 05346 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grace Cottage Hospital with a distance of 8.14 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Putney, Vermont (ZIP Code 05346)

The quaint charm of Putney, Vermont, nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, offers a life of natural beauty and community spirit. But for residents facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: navigating **healthcare access** in a rural environment. This write-up analyzes the **transportation** landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 05346, providing a “Prostate Cancer Score” that reflects the ease – or difficulty – of accessing specialized care. This is crucial information for anyone **moving to Putney**, or for current residents seeking to understand their options.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” considers factors like drive times to specialized urological care, availability of public **transportation**, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the existence of medical **transportation** options. Each category is weighted to reflect its importance in the overall assessment. The higher the score, the better the access to care.

**Drive Times and Road Networks: The Backbone of Access**

Putney's geographic isolation significantly impacts **healthcare access**. The primary route for accessing specialized medical facilities is by car. The most direct path to larger medical centers involves navigating the scenic, yet often winding, roads of Vermont.

The primary artery connecting Putney to the outside world is Interstate 91 (I-91). Heading north on I-91 offers access to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, a regional hub for advanced cancer care. The drive, without traffic, is approximately one hour, covering roughly 50 miles. This drive time is, however, subject to seasonal variations, particularly during winter months when icy conditions can significantly extend travel times. The route follows I-91 North, and then merges with US-4 West.

Traveling south on I-91 provides access to hospitals in Brattleboro, Vermont, including Brattleboro Memorial Hospital, which offers some urological services. The drive to Brattleboro is considerably shorter, typically around 15-20 minutes, covering approximately 10 miles. This proximity makes it a more accessible option for routine appointments and initial consultations. The route follows I-91 South.

Other roads, such as Route 5, offer alternative routes, though they are generally slower and less direct. Route 5 runs parallel to I-91, providing a more local and scenic option. Route 142 also provides access to areas west of Putney. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter, can be a significant factor in determining travel times.

The “Drive Time Score” is based on the average time to reach the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, factoring in potential delays due to weather and traffic. Given the reliance on personal vehicles and the distance to specialized facilities, the score reflects the challenges of rural **healthcare access**.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Putney are limited. The primary mode of public **transportation** is the Green Mountain Express (GMX) bus service, which provides regional service. The GMX Route 91 connects Putney with Brattleboro and points north. However, the frequency of service is limited, with buses running on a schedule that may not align with medical appointments.

The GMX bus service does offer ADA-accessible buses, providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and schedule constraints make it less than ideal for patients needing frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the bus service does not directly serve Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, requiring multiple transfers and significantly increasing travel time.

The “Public Transportation Score” is low, reflecting the limitations of the available services. While the ADA accessibility is a positive feature, the lack of frequency and direct routes to specialized care centers significantly impacts the score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the region, but their availability in Putney is variable. The availability of these services is often dependent on the time of day and the demand in the area. Patients may experience difficulties securing a ride, particularly for early morning appointments or late-night discharges.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized option for patients needing assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

The “Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Score” reflects the presence of these services, but also accounts for their limitations. The variable availability of ride-sharing services and the need for advance booking for medical **transportation** services impact the score.

**The Prostate Cancer Score for Putney (ZIP Code 05346)**

Considering all factors, the “Prostate Cancer Score” for Putney (ZIP code 05346) is moderate. While the proximity to Brattleboro offers some convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care, the limited public **transportation** options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options for individuals facing a prostate cancer diagnosis.

**Recommendations for Individuals Moving to Putney and Residents Seeking Care**

For individuals **moving to Putney**, it's crucial to understand the **healthcare access** landscape. Researching the availability of urological specialists, understanding the **transportation** options, and considering the potential impact of weather on travel times are essential steps.

For current residents, it's important to proactively plan for medical appointments. Building relationships with local healthcare providers, exploring medical **transportation** options, and utilizing available resources can help mitigate the challenges of accessing care.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” serves as a guide, highlighting the complexities of navigating **healthcare access** in a rural environment. While Putney offers a unique lifestyle, understanding the **transportation** challenges is crucial for ensuring timely and effective care. The beauty of Putney is undeniable, but the reality of **healthcare access** requires careful consideration and proactive planning.