06010, Bristol, Connecticut Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 06010, Bristol, Connecticut is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.17 percent of residents in 06010 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bristol Hospital with a distance of 0.52 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Bristol, CT (ZIP Code 06010)

The crisp New England air, a double-edged sword for those with asthma. While the changing seasons paint a vibrant landscape, they also bring potential triggers. Choosing a home in Bristol, Connecticut (ZIP code 06010) requires careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly the ease of transportation to manage asthma symptoms. This "Asthma Score" analyzes the available transportation options, offering insights into the practicality of commuting to healthcare facilities. It’s a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Bristol, ensuring the best possible quality of life.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is proximity to medical facilities. In Bristol, the primary healthcare provider is **Bristol Hospital**, located at 41 Brewster Road. This is the central hub for urgent care, specialist appointments, and asthma management. Evaluating commute times to this location from various points within the 06010 ZIP code is essential.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for many residents. From the eastern side of 06010, accessing Bristol Hospital typically involves navigating **Route 6** and **Route 72**. During off-peak hours, the drive is a swift 10-15 minutes. However, rush hour, especially between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, can significantly extend this commute, potentially doubling the travel time. This is a critical consideration for individuals experiencing acute asthma exacerbations.

From the western side of 06010, residents can utilize **Route 69** to connect to Route 72 and then Brewster Road. This route offers a slightly longer, but often less congested, alternative. Expect a 15-20 minute drive during non-peak hours. Traffic flow on Route 69 tends to be more consistent than on Route 6, making it a potentially more reliable option during rush hour.

From the northern reaches of the ZIP code, accessing the hospital involves using **Pine Street** and connecting to **Middle Street**, then onto Brewster Road. This route generally takes about 10-12 minutes in light traffic. Similarly, from the southern areas, using **New Britain Avenue** to connect with **Main Street** and then to Brewster Road, provides a direct route, with a similar commute time, excluding peak traffic conditions.

**Public Transportation Options:**

For those without personal vehicles, or who prefer to avoid driving, public transportation offers a viable, albeit less direct, alternative. The **Connecticut Transit (CTtransit)** system serves Bristol, with several bus routes providing access to the hospital.

**Route 501** is a key route, operating through the city and making stops near Bristol Hospital. However, the frequency of Route 501 can be limited, particularly on weekends and evenings. Waiting times can be substantial, potentially adding considerable time to the overall commute. The buses are equipped with **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating.

**Route 502** provides a connection to Bristol from neighboring cities, such as New Britain. This route can be useful for those living outside of the immediate 06010 area but still needing access to the hospital. Transferring between routes may be necessary, which can add to the overall travel time and complexity.

While public transit offers a valuable service, its limitations must be acknowledged. The reliance on scheduled routes, the potential for delays, and the need for transfers can make it a less convenient option, particularly during an asthma emergency.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are readily available in Bristol. They provide a flexible alternative to public transportation, offering on-demand transportation to Bristol Hospital. The convenience of door-to-door service is a significant advantage, especially for individuals experiencing breathing difficulties. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. **Care Ride** and **Medical Transportation Services** are examples of companies providing this service in the area. These services offer a higher level of support and are often covered by insurance, making them a valuable option for those with significant mobility challenges or complex medical needs.

**Evaluating the Asthma Score:**

The "Asthma Score" for 06010 reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While driving offers the most direct and flexible access to healthcare, traffic congestion during peak hours poses a significant challenge. Public transportation provides a more affordable alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency and potential delays must be considered. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but come at a cost. Specialized medical transportation services provide the highest level of support, but their availability and cost need to be assessed.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions:**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Bristol, a thorough understanding of these transportation options is paramount. The proximity to Bristol Hospital, coupled with the availability of diverse transportation methods, provides a reasonable level of healthcare access. However, the potential for traffic delays and the limitations of public transportation necessitate careful planning and consideration. Prioritizing a location within 06010 that allows for easy access to major roadways, or close proximity to bus routes, will greatly improve the ability to manage asthma symptoms. The choice of where to live in Bristol, therefore, should be informed by a realistic assessment of transportation needs and the ability to quickly and reliably reach medical care. This comprehensive analysis of transportation options provides a valuable framework for making informed decisions about healthcare access and quality of life within the 06010 ZIP code.