06354, Moosup, Connecticut Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 06354, Moosup, Connecticut is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.10 percent of residents in 06354 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is William W Backus Hospital with a distance of 16.25 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Moosup, CT (ZIP Code 06354)

The quaint New England town of Moosup, Connecticut, nestled within the 06354 ZIP code, offers a picturesque setting for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, individuals with asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, must consider the accessibility of healthcare services when contemplating a move. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the complexities of transportation options and healthcare access, providing a comprehensive overview for potential residents. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities that shape healthcare access in Moosup.

Moosup's relative isolation, a charming attribute for some, presents unique challenges for healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized care centers are located in neighboring towns, demanding careful consideration of transportation options. This assessment considers the practicalities of getting to appointments, managing potential asthma exacerbations, and ensuring timely access to medical assistance.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating Highways and Roads**

For many Moosup residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option, however, hinges on traffic conditions and the distance to healthcare facilities. The primary artery connecting Moosup to the wider region is Route 14, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours. Route 14 provides access to the larger Route 6, which connects to major hospitals and medical centers.

Traveling to Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam, approximately 10 miles from Moosup, typically takes 15-20 minutes via Route 14 and Route 44. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including an emergency department, critical care, and pulmonology specialists. The drive is generally straightforward, but potential traffic delays on Route 14 should be factored in, especially during morning and evening commutes.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. The drive to Backus Hospital in Norwich, roughly 25 miles away, necessitates navigating Route 14 to Route 6, then onto I-395. This journey can take 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Backus Hospital boasts a larger network of specialists, including advanced respiratory care and a dedicated asthma clinic.

Yale New Haven Hospital, a major tertiary care center, is approximately 50 miles from Moosup. The journey requires utilizing Route 14, Route 6, and I-395 South, and then I-95 North. Travel time can range from 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. While offering a wide array of specialized services, the distance introduces significant travel time, potentially impacting access to urgent care during asthma flare-ups.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Moosup are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Southeastern Connecticut Transportation Authority (SECT) operates bus routes in the region, but service within Moosup is infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to larger towns.

Route 901, the primary SECT route serving Moosup, offers limited service to Putnam and Danielson, providing access to some healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of buses is low, and the routes may not align with appointment schedules. Moreover, accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, are available on SECT buses, but riders should confirm these features before traveling.

The lack of frequent and direct public transit options highlights the importance of exploring alternative transportation strategies for individuals with asthma. The limited public transit accessibility emphasizes the need for careful planning and reliance on other modes of transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Moosup area, but their availability and cost may vary. The reliance on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful consideration of potential wait times, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. Booking rides in advance is highly recommended to ensure timely arrival at appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer another option. Companies like Med-Trans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, while more expensive than ride-sharing, can provide a reliable and comfortable way to access healthcare, especially for those with severe asthma or mobility limitations.

**Healthcare Access and the Asthma Score**

The "Asthma Score" for Moosup, CT (06354), reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the town offers a tranquil environment, the limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles introduce challenges for individuals with asthma. The drive times to hospitals and specialized care centers, while manageable, require careful planning and consideration of potential traffic delays.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative options, but their cost and availability must be factored into the overall assessment. The limited public transit options emphasize the importance of exploring alternative transportation strategies for individuals with asthma.

For individuals with well-controlled asthma, the relatively short drive times to Day Kimball Hospital may be manageable. However, those with more severe asthma or complex medical needs may find the distance to specialized care centers in Norwich or New Haven more challenging.

**Moving to Moosup: Considerations for Asthma Patients**

Before making the move to Moosup, prospective residents with asthma should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation preferences. They should research the availability of pulmonologists and asthma specialists in the region and assess the feasibility of accessing these services.

A pre-move visit to the area, including a test drive to healthcare facilities during peak traffic hours, is highly recommended. This will provide a realistic understanding of travel times and potential challenges. Exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also crucial.

Finally, individuals with asthma should establish a clear plan for managing asthma exacerbations, including a readily accessible supply of medication and a designated emergency contact. This proactive approach will ensure a smoother transition and facilitate effective healthcare access in Moosup.