06793, Washington, Connecticut Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 06793, Washington, Connecticut is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.09 percent of residents in 06793 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Waterbury Hospital with a distance of 13.08 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06793**

The air hangs heavy with the scent of autumn leaves and the faint promise of snow in the quaint New England town of Torrington, Connecticut, ZIP Code 06793. Nestled in the Litchfield Hills, this area presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma. Assessing the ease of transportation to medical facilities is paramount in determining the “Asthma Score” for this region. This score reflects the accessibility of healthcare resources, a crucial factor for those considering moving to Washington, or any location, where respiratory health is a priority.

The primary determinant of the Asthma Score hinges on commute times. Driving, the dominant mode of transportation, dictates the speed and efficiency with which residents can reach critical medical appointments. The major arteries serving Torrington are Route 8, a north-south highway, and Route 4, an east-west thoroughfare. These roads, while offering direct access to larger cities, can become congested during peak hours, particularly in the vicinity of commercial areas. The drive to Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in Torrington, is generally manageable, averaging 5-10 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. However, reaching specialists and advanced care often necessitates longer journeys.

Accessing healthcare in Hartford, approximately 30 miles southeast, presents a more significant transportation hurdle. The drive, primarily via Route 8 and then onto I-84, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. These conditions are frequently exacerbated by accidents, weather, and rush-hour congestion, potentially delaying critical care for asthma sufferers. This delay significantly impacts the Asthma Score.

Public transportation options, while available, offer limited utility for healthcare access in 06793. The Northwest Connecticut Transit District (NWCTD) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent, and coverage is limited to specific areas. The primary route relevant to healthcare access is the Route 101, which connects Torrington to Winsted and occasionally to other surrounding towns. However, the NWCTD's services are not designed for frequent trips, and the schedules are often not conducive to medical appointments. Moreover, ADA accessibility features, such as ramps and lifts, are available on all NWCTD buses, but the limited routes and schedules diminish their practicality for asthma patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources. This factor further impacts the Asthma Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance companies, provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) for individuals needing assistance. While these services offer a valuable option, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation alternatives. This expense impacts the Asthma Score.

The Asthma Score also considers the impact of environmental factors. Torrington's location in a valley can contribute to air stagnation, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms. Air quality monitoring stations provide real-time data, allowing residents to adjust their activities and transportation choices accordingly. However, relying on this data requires constant vigilance, adding another layer of complexity for asthma patients.

The availability of pharmacies and urgent care facilities within the ZIP code also contributes to the score. Having readily available access to medication and immediate care is crucial for managing asthma. Torrington boasts several pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, and a local urgent care center, providing convenient access to essential healthcare resources.

The Asthma Score for 06793, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of a local hospital, pharmacies, and urgent care facilities offers some advantages, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential for traffic congestion pose significant challenges. The drive times to specialists and advanced care facilities in Hartford and other cities further complicate the accessibility equation.

Considering the factors, the Asthma Score for 06793 is moderately favorable. The score is negatively affected by the limited public transportation options and the potential for traffic delays, particularly when traveling to larger cities for specialized care. The score is positively affected by the presence of local healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and urgent care centers. For those considering moving to Washington, or any location, where respiratory health is a concern, a thorough evaluation of transportation infrastructure and healthcare access is essential. Careful consideration of the Asthma Score and its contributing factors will enable informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.