06380, Taftville, Connecticut Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 06380, Taftville, Connecticut is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.52 percent of residents in 06380 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is William W Backus Hospital with a distance of 2.37 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Taftville, CT (ZIP Code 06380)

The quaint village of Taftville, Connecticut, nestled within the larger town of Norwich (ZIP Code 06380), presents a unique challenge for individuals managing asthma. The ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, particularly during an asthma exacerbation, is crucial. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities from various points within Taftville, considering both the immediate needs of an asthma attack and the ongoing requirements of chronic asthma management. This is especially relevant for those considering moving to Taftville, as understanding healthcare access is a vital aspect of quality of life.

The primary concern for an individual experiencing an asthma attack is rapid access to medical care. This often necessitates immediate transportation to the nearest emergency room. In Taftville, the closest hospital is William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich. The most direct route involves a drive along **Route 12**, a major thoroughfare that bisects Taftville. Travel time is generally under 10 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, traffic on Route 12 can be unpredictable, particularly during rush hour, which could significantly impact response times.

Another route to Backus Hospital involves utilizing **Route 97** south to connect with **Route 2**, a limited-access highway. This option might be slightly longer in terms of distance but could offer a quicker travel time during periods of heavy traffic on Route 12. This is especially important when considering the potential for a sudden asthma flare-up. The availability of clear and efficient routes to the hospital is paramount.

Public transportation options within Taftville are limited. The Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) provides bus service throughout the Norwich area. However, the routes serving Taftville, particularly **Route 1**, have limited frequency, with buses typically running hourly or less frequently. This makes public transit an unreliable option for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, while SEAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, the extended travel times and potential for delays render them less suitable for asthma emergencies.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Norwich area. While these services offer a more flexible transportation option than public transit, their availability and response times can vary. During peak hours or in inclement weather, securing a ride-share may take longer, potentially delaying access to medical care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, are another option. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) offer services in the area. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis, and other healthcare facilities. However, they are often pre-booked and may not be readily available for immediate needs during an asthma exacerbation. The cost of medical transport can also be substantial, potentially posing a barrier to healthcare access for some individuals.

Beyond emergency care, ongoing asthma management requires regular check-ups with a pulmonologist, access to pharmacies for medication refills, and the ability to attend pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance from Taftville is critical. Backus Hospital offers pulmonology services, making it a convenient option for residents. Numerous pharmacies are located in Norwich, accessible via Route 12 or Route 97.

The accessibility of pharmacies is particularly important for individuals managing asthma. The timely access to medication, including rescue inhalers and controller medications, is crucial for preventing asthma attacks and managing the condition effectively. The proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and the ease of transportation to these locations are essential factors in determining the overall asthma score for Taftville.

The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is another important consideration. These programs provide education, exercise, and support to help individuals manage their asthma and improve their quality of life. Backus Hospital and other healthcare providers in the Norwich area offer these programs, but the travel time and transportation options to these facilities can be a barrier for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Taftville, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare services is a significant factor. While the drive times to Backus Hospital are generally short, the potential for traffic delays on Route 12 necessitates careful consideration. The limited public transportation options and the variability of ride-sharing services further emphasize the importance of reliable personal transportation.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Taftville, CT (ZIP Code 06380) is moderate. While the proximity of Backus Hospital offers relatively quick access to emergency care, the limitations of public transportation, the potential for traffic delays, and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges for some residents. Individuals with severe asthma or those without access to reliable transportation may face greater difficulties in accessing timely and appropriate healthcare.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs and access to asthma educators, is a crucial factor in managing the condition effectively. While these services are available in the Norwich area, the ease of access and the cost of transportation can impact the overall quality of care.

In conclusion, while Taftville offers a relatively convenient location for accessing emergency medical care, the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles require careful consideration for individuals managing asthma. Understanding the transportation landscape, the availability of healthcare services, and the potential for traffic delays is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life. The assessment of transportation and healthcare access is a critical element for anyone considering moving to Taftville, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and awareness.