06078, Suffield, Connecticut Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 06078, Suffield, Connecticut is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.92 percent of residents in 06078 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rockville General Hospital with a distance of 12.87 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Suffield, CT (ZIP Code 06078)

Suffield, Connecticut, nestled in the fertile Connecticut River Valley, offers a charming New England lifestyle. For individuals contemplating a move to this picturesque town, particularly those managing arthritis, understanding the ease of **healthcare access** is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available in and around ZIP code 06078, aiming to illuminate the challenges and opportunities faced when commuting to medical appointments.

The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture, allowing potential residents to assess how easily they can reach essential medical care, especially given the mobility limitations that often accompany arthritis.

**Driving the Arteries of Care:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, Suffield's **transportation** network revolves primarily around the major roadways. Interstate 91 (I-91) serves as the primary north-south artery, offering relatively quick access to major medical centers in Hartford, approximately 15-20 minutes south, and Springfield, Massachusetts, a similar distance north.

Route 75, running north-south through Suffield, provides a more local route, connecting to surrounding towns and offering access to smaller medical practices and specialists. Route 168, a smaller east-west road, offers a convenient connection to Bradley International Airport (BDL), a potential asset for those needing to travel for specialized medical care.

The drive times, of course, are subject to traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times on I-91. Patience and careful planning are essential, especially for individuals with arthritis who may experience increased pain or fatigue during prolonged periods of sitting.

**Public Transit: A Limited Pathway:**

Public transit options in Suffield are, unfortunately, limited. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) does not offer extensive bus routes within the town itself. The primary public transit option is the CTtransit route 913, which runs along Route 75, connecting Suffield to Windsor Locks and Windsor. This route provides limited service, typically operating on an hourly basis, with reduced service on weekends.

Accessibility for individuals with arthritis is a critical consideration. CTtransit vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for passengers with mobility impairments. However, the infrequent service and potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges for those needing to travel to medical appointments.

The lack of comprehensive public **transportation** can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. Careful consideration of this limitation is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Suffield**.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Suffield, providing an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with arthritis. These services provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles, and often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the area, including:

* **CareRide:** A well-established provider, offering a range of services, including non-emergency medical transport.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Primarily known for emergency services, AMR also provides non-emergency medical transport in some areas.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Many local ambulance services offer non-emergency transport as part of their services.

The cost of medical **transportation** can vary depending on the distance, level of assistance required, and the specific provider. It's essential to research and compare prices and services to find the most suitable option.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape:**

The availability of medical facilities within Suffield itself is another crucial factor. The town has several primary care physicians, specialists, and physical therapy clinics. However, for more specialized care, residents may need to travel to Hartford or Springfield.

Hartford Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital, and the Hospital of Central Connecticut are major medical centers located within a reasonable driving distance. These hospitals offer a wide range of specialties, including rheumatology, orthopedics, and pain management, all essential for managing arthritis.

Springfield, Massachusetts, also offers excellent medical facilities, including Baystate Medical Center. The proximity of these medical centers provides residents with access to a comprehensive range of healthcare services.

**The Arthritis Score: A Summary Assessment:**

Suffield, while offering a desirable quality of life, presents some challenges regarding **healthcare access** for individuals with arthritis. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services require careful consideration.

The town's proximity to major medical centers in Hartford and Springfield is a significant advantage, providing access to specialized care. However, the drive times, especially during peak hours, can be a concern.

For someone **moving to Suffield** with arthritis, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and financial resources is crucial. Exploring all available options, from personal vehicles to medical **transportation**, and establishing a reliable plan for getting to medical appointments is essential for maintaining their health and well-being. The **Arthritis Score** for ZIP code 06078 reflects a mixed picture: good access to healthcare but with **transportation** challenges that require careful planning and consideration.