05867, Sutton, Vermont Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer 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.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Sutton, Vermont (ZIP Code 05867)

The quaint town of Sutton, Vermont, nestled in the heart of the Northeast Kingdom, presents a unique challenge for residents navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for assessing the quality of life and the ease of receiving timely medical care. This "Prostate Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 05867, offering a comprehensive view for current residents and those considering moving to Sutton.

The primary concern for individuals managing prostate cancer is the timely access to specialists, diagnostic tools, and treatment options. This score will analyze the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, considering drive times, accessibility features, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This analysis is not just about distance; it's about the practicalities of getting from Sutton to the necessary medical appointments, especially when fatigue, mobility issues, or the side effects of treatment are factors.

The backbone of transportation in Sutton and the surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. Driving is often the most direct route to healthcare, but the terrain and road conditions can influence travel times, especially during Vermont's challenging winters. From Sutton, the most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating the state's network of highways and roads.

The primary artery for travel is **Vermont Route 114**, which snakes its way through the town, connecting Sutton to neighboring communities. Heading south on Route 114 will eventually lead to **Interstate 91**, a major north-south thoroughfare. This interstate provides access to larger hospitals and specialist practices in cities like White River Junction, approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive, and even further to medical centers in Burlington, which can take up to three hours. The trip to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, a highly regarded facility, takes approximately two hours via I-91.

Alternatively, heading north on Route 114 provides access to **U.S. Route 2**, which leads to the city of Montpelier, about an hour and a half away, and the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington. This route offers another option for accessing specialized care. The drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination. The presence of snow and ice in the winter months can significantly increase travel times and pose a safety risk, making reliable transportation even more critical.

Public transit options in the area are limited, which presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus services in the region, but their routes and schedules may not directly serve Sutton or offer frequent connections to major medical centers. Residents would likely need to travel to a larger town like St. Johnsbury to access a GMT route, which could add considerable time and complexity to the commute.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on public transit is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. While GMT strives to provide accessible services, the specific availability of wheelchair lifts, ramps, and other accommodations on routes serving the region from Sutton requires careful investigation. Those considering moving to Sutton or already residing there should contact GMT directly to confirm accessibility features and schedules that align with their healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some parts of Vermont, but their presence in rural areas like Sutton is often limited. Availability can be inconsistent, and wait times may be long. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. Relying on ride-sharing as the primary mode of transportation to healthcare is often unreliable and expensive.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport companies operate in Vermont, including smaller, local providers. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary depending on the specific location and the type of assistance required.

For individuals managing prostate cancer, the ability to schedule and coordinate medical transportation can be a crucial factor in their overall well-being. Exploring the options and understanding the costs associated with medical transport services is essential for ensuring timely access to care.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Sutton, Vermont, is therefore significantly impacted by the limited public transit options, the unreliable nature of ride-sharing services, and the potential challenges associated with weather-dependent driving conditions. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and consideration of the physical demands of driving, particularly for those undergoing treatment.

The score also highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness. Patients and their families should research and identify all available transportation options, including medical transport services, and establish a network of support to assist with appointments. The score emphasizes the need to consider the logistical challenges of healthcare access when making decisions about moving to Sutton or remaining in the community.

For individuals with prostate cancer, the distance to healthcare facilities is not just measured in miles; it's measured in time, effort, and the potential for stress. The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 05867 serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is a multifaceted issue, and the transportation infrastructure plays a critical role in shaping the experience of patients and their families. The score underscores the importance of advocating for improved transportation options and supporting initiatives that enhance healthcare access in rural communities.