06002, Bloomfield, Connecticut Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 06002, Bloomfield, Connecticut is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.53 percent of residents in 06002 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital & Medical Center with a distance of 4.28 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bloomfield, CT (ZIP Code 06002)

Bloomfield, Connecticut, ZIP code 06002, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing asthma. The interplay of environmental factors, healthcare access, and transportation options significantly impacts the quality of life for residents. This analysis, an "Asthma Score" write-up, examines the commute to healthcare, a crucial element influencing asthma management. We delve into drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering moving to Bloomfield or seeking improved healthcare access.

Bloomfield, nestled in Hartford County, offers a blend of suburban and urban environments. The presence of major roadways, including Interstate 91 (I-91) and the Wilbur Cross Highway (Route 15), shapes transportation dynamics. These thoroughfares, while facilitating movement, can also contribute to air pollution, a significant trigger for asthma exacerbations. Commuting times, especially during peak hours, become critical considerations.

For individuals relying on personal vehicles, healthcare access in 06002 involves navigating these roadways. Driving to nearby hospitals like Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center in Hartford, or the UConn Health Center in Farmington, typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Route 187 and Cottage Grove Road provide direct access to local clinics and medical facilities within Bloomfield, often requiring less than a 10-minute drive. However, the variability in traffic flow necessitates careful planning, especially for urgent care needs.

Public transportation in Bloomfield, while available, presents challenges for asthma sufferers. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus routes serving the area. The 91, 92, and 96 routes connect Bloomfield to Hartford and surrounding towns. These buses offer accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. However, bus travel times can be significantly longer than driving, potentially exposing individuals to prolonged periods in environments with varying air quality. Furthermore, the frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, might limit healthcare access for those without alternative transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation avenue. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially reducing commute times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments. Availability also varies depending on the time of day and demand, potentially creating delays in accessing medical care.

Medical transport services, including brands like MedTrans and CareLine, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer specialized transportation, often with trained personnel and accommodations for medical equipment. Medical transport is particularly valuable for those unable to drive or use public transportation due to their asthma. However, the need to schedule these services in advance and the associated costs require careful consideration.

The "Asthma Score" for commuting to healthcare in 06002 must account for the environmental factors. Proximity to major roadways, potential for air pollution, and seasonal variations in air quality influence asthma triggers. The availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code is a significant advantage, reducing commute times and potentially minimizing exposure to environmental triggers.

Healthcare access in Bloomfield is also impacted by the availability of specialized asthma care. Identifying pulmonologists, allergists, and asthma educators within a reasonable distance is crucial. Proximity to pharmacies offering asthma medications and respiratory supplies is another important consideration.

For individuals considering moving to Bloomfield, the "Asthma Score" provides valuable insights. The score should weigh the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential environmental triggers. A higher score indicates better healthcare access and a potentially more manageable environment for asthma sufferers.

The interplay of these factors underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to asthma management in Bloomfield. Individuals must actively assess their transportation needs, healthcare access, and environmental sensitivities. Careful planning, proactive communication with healthcare providers, and utilization of available resources are essential for optimizing asthma control.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for commuting to healthcare in 06002 reflects a nuanced reality. While the presence of major roadways offers transportation options, the potential for air pollution and traffic congestion presents challenges. Public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services provide alternative solutions, each with its own advantages and limitations. The "Asthma Score" emphasizes the importance of individual assessment, proactive planning, and a commitment to optimizing healthcare access for individuals managing asthma in Bloomfield.