05448, East Fairfield, Vermont Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 05448, East Fairfield, Vermont is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.88 percent of residents in 05448 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwestern Medical Center Inc with a distance of 10.94 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 05448

The quiet charm of East Fairfield, Vermont, nestled in the heart of Franklin County, offers a picturesque setting. But for residents navigating the complexities of healthcare, particularly those facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, the reality of **healthcare access** hinges on the efficiency and availability of **transportation**. This write-up, specifically tailored for ZIP code 05448, provides a comprehensive assessment of commuting options for prostate cancer care, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to empower individuals considering **moving to East Fairfield** or currently residing there with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

Prostate cancer treatment often necessitates frequent appointments: consultations, diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, if required. This regimen demands reliable and convenient access to medical facilities. The following analysis delves into the practicalities of reaching these vital resources from the 05448 ZIP code.

**Driving Distances and Routes:**

The primary mode of transportation in this rural area is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The closest major medical centers offering comprehensive prostate cancer care are located in Burlington, approximately 40 miles away, and St. Albans, a more accessible 15 miles.

Driving to Burlington, the most significant healthcare hub, involves navigating several key routes. The journey typically begins on **Vermont Route 108**, a scenic road that meanders through the town. From there, the most direct route utilizes **Vermont Route 104**, which eventually merges onto **Interstate 89 (I-89)** South. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive to the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC), the primary destination for specialized care, can take between 50 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes.

Alternatively, to reach St. Albans, the drive is considerably shorter. Departing from East Fairfield on **Vermont Route 108**, one can quickly connect to **Vermont Route 104A** and then **Vermont Route 36**, which leads directly into the city. This trip, usually taking about 20-30 minutes, offers access to Northwestern Medical Center.

The time of day significantly impacts drive times. Rush hour, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, can add considerable delays, especially on I-89. Weather conditions, particularly during Vermont’s harsh winters, can further complicate travel. Snow and ice necessitate slower speeds and can lead to road closures, making **transportation** planning crucial.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Franklin County are limited compared to urban areas. The primary provider is Green Mountain Transit (GMT). While GMT does not directly serve East Fairfield, the closest point of access is likely in St. Albans.

The **Route 61 bus**, also known as the Franklin County Connector, is a potential option. It offers limited service, primarily connecting St. Albans to surrounding towns. While the route itself may not directly service East Fairfield, a transfer from a connecting service might be possible. The bus routes are subject to change, and the schedule is limited, so the best approach is to consult the GMT website for the most up-to-date information.

It's crucial to note that the availability of **ADA features** (Americans with Disabilities Act) on public transit is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. GMT strives to provide accessible services, but it's necessary to verify the accessibility of specific routes and vehicles before relying on them.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Burlington area, though their presence in East Fairfield and St. Albans is less consistent. Availability may fluctuate based on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and may involve longer wait times and higher costs, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals needing assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. Several providers operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport companies. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and wheelchair access.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

* **Bayada Home Health Care:** Offers medical transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Transit:** A national provider of non-emergency medical transportation, serving various areas in Vermont.
* **Care Ride Vermont:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation services for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Considerations for Prostate Cancer Patients:**

Prostate cancer treatment can cause fatigue, making driving challenging. The side effects of treatment, such as urinary incontinence, can also impact travel comfort and convenience. Therefore, the availability of reliable **transportation** options is critical for maintaining quality of life and adherence to treatment plans.

For those considering **moving to East Fairfield**, it's essential to factor in the distance to medical facilities and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing. The availability of medical transportation services becomes particularly important for individuals who cannot drive or require assistance with mobility.

**Prostate Cancer Score: 05448**

Based on the assessment above, the Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP code 05448 reflects a moderate level of accessibility. While driving distances to major medical centers are manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative solutions, but their reliability and cost should be carefully considered.

The score reflects a need for careful planning and proactive arrangements for **transportation** to medical appointments. Residents should explore all available options, including medical transportation services, and establish a reliable system for ensuring timely access to care. The score also highlights the importance of considering **healthcare access** when making decisions about residency, especially for individuals with existing or potential health concerns.

The score is not a definitive measure but a guide to understanding the nuances of **healthcare access** in the context of prostate cancer treatment. The score also emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and the potential benefits of exploring medical transportation services to ensure continuity of care.