06776, New Milford, Connecticut Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 06776, New Milford, Connecticut is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.52 percent of residents in 06776 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Danbury Hospital with a distance of 12.10 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Milford (ZIP Code 06776)

The crisp air of New Milford, Connecticut, often draws those seeking respite from urban congestion. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of the countryside must be balanced with the reality of healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 06776, providing an "Asthma Score" assessment to aid in understanding the ease of reaching medical care. The score reflects the complexity of **transportation** options, considering factors crucial for asthma sufferers: travel time, reliability, and accessibility. This information is particularly relevant for those **moving to New Milford**, seeking to understand the healthcare **access** situation.

The core of this analysis centers on the journey to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facility: New Milford Hospital, located at 21 Elm Street. This facility offers a range of services, including pulmonology and emergency care, critical for asthma management.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of **transportation**. From various points within 06776, the drive to New Milford Hospital is generally straightforward, but drive times fluctuate significantly depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code.

Residents in the northern reaches of 06776, near the intersection of Route 7 and Route 202, can expect a drive time of approximately 5 to 10 minutes. The route typically involves a quick jaunt south on Route 7, turning east onto Elm Street. Route 7, a major north-south artery, often experiences moderate traffic during peak hours, particularly in the morning and late afternoon.

Those residing further east, closer to the Housatonic River, will likely utilize Route 202, a more winding road that offers scenic views but can add a few minutes to the journey. Drive times from this area range from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the precise starting point. The intersection of Route 202 and Route 7 can be a bottleneck, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Southern residents, closer to the town center, enjoy the shortest drive times, often within 5 minutes. Accessing Elm Street from this area is direct, with limited traffic congestion.

The Asthma Score for driving is moderately favorable. While the drive times are generally reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles necessitates consideration of potential traffic delays, especially during rush hour or inclement weather. This can be a significant stressor for asthma sufferers, potentially triggering symptoms.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public **transportation** in New Milford is limited, which significantly impacts the Asthma Score. The primary option is the Housatonic Area Regional Transit (HART), providing bus services within the region. However, HART's routes within 06776 and to the hospital are sparse.

The primary HART route serving New Milford is Route 1, which connects to Danbury. While Route 1 does provide service to New Milford, its frequency is limited, with buses running approximately every hour during peak times and less frequently during off-peak hours and weekends. The closest bus stop to New Milford Hospital is located on Main Street, a short walk from the hospital.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration. HART buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and potential for longer travel times make public **transportation** a less desirable option for individuals with asthma, particularly during an exacerbation. The Asthma Score suffers considerably due to the limited public **transportation** options.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in New Milford. However, their reliability and availability can be variable, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. Wait times can be longer compared to more urban areas, which could pose a challenge for someone experiencing asthma symptoms.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized option. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. However, they offer the advantage of trained personnel and vehicles equipped to handle medical needs, making them a potentially valuable resource for asthma sufferers.

The Asthma Score for ride-share and medical **transportation** is mixed. While these options provide alternatives to driving, their reliability and cost are significant considerations. The availability of medical **transportation** services is a positive factor, but the need for pre-planning and associated costs can be a barrier.

**Asthma Score Summary and Recommendations:**

The overall Asthma Score for **healthcare access** in 06776 is moderate. While driving offers the most direct route to New Milford Hospital, reliance on a personal vehicle necessitates consideration of traffic and potential delays. Public **transportation** is limited, posing a significant challenge. Ride-share services provide an alternative, but their reliability can be variable. Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized option, but at a higher cost.

For individuals with asthma considering **moving to New Milford**, several recommendations are crucial. First, assess your individual needs and triggers. If you experience frequent exacerbations or require rapid access to medical care, living within close proximity to the hospital or along a primary route is highly recommended.

Second, explore the availability and reliability of ride-share services in your chosen area. Familiarize yourself with the local HART bus routes and schedules. Consider pre-booking medical **transportation** services for routine appointments or potential emergencies.

Third, prioritize regular communication with your pulmonologist and develop an asthma action plan. This plan should include clear instructions for managing symptoms and accessing medical care. Consider the impact of seasonal allergens and weather conditions, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Finally, when evaluating housing options, consider the proximity to pharmacies and urgent care facilities, in addition to the distance to the hospital. Being prepared and understanding the **transportation** landscape are vital elements in successfully managing asthma in New Milford.