06804, Brookfield, Connecticut Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 06804, Brookfield, Connecticut is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.32 percent of residents in 06804 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Danbury Hospital with a distance of 4.88 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Brookfield, CT (ZIP Code 06804)

Considering a move to the charming town of Brookfield, Connecticut (ZIP code 06804), especially if you or a loved one manages asthma? This assessment, the "Asthma Score," delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options to medical facilities. Understanding the ease of reaching doctors, specialists, and emergency care is paramount for asthma management, and this write-up aims to provide a clear picture of the landscape in Brookfield. We’ll explore drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements impacting healthcare access.

Brookfield, nestled in Fairfield County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to essential services. However, like any location, healthcare access is intricately tied to the available transportation infrastructure. For individuals with asthma, prompt access to medical care during an exacerbation can be life-saving. The Asthma Score will help you gauge the practicality of accessing healthcare facilities from various points within Brookfield, weighing your options for a healthy move.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Road Ahead**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Brookfield. Several major roadways facilitate travel to medical facilities in and around the town. The primary artery is Interstate 84 (I-84), which runs east-west, providing quick access to Danbury and Waterbury. The proximity to I-84 is a significant advantage for Brookfield residents, offering a direct route to larger medical centers.

The drive to Danbury Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes between 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is a crucial factor, especially during an asthma flare-up. The route usually involves taking Federal Road (US-7) south to the hospital. Another option is to take Exit 9 off of I-84 and then follow the appropriate signage.

For specialized care, the drive to Yale New Haven Hospital in New Haven, while longer, is still feasible. This trip, usually taking around an hour and fifteen minutes, would involve taking I-84 east to I-91 south. This is a consideration for individuals needing specialized pulmonology or allergy care not readily available in the immediate vicinity.

Smaller, local medical offices and urgent care facilities are also accessible by car. Routes like Route 25 and Route 133 provide convenient access to these facilities within Brookfield and neighboring towns. Rush hour traffic, particularly on Federal Road and I-84, can significantly impact travel times, so factoring in potential delays is essential.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Options**

Public transportation in Brookfield, while present, is limited compared to more urban areas. This is a critical consideration for individuals who do not drive or prefer not to drive. The primary public transit option is provided by the Housatonic Area Regional Transit (HART) system.

HART offers bus routes that serve the area, but service frequency and coverage are not as extensive as in larger cities. Route 7, for example, connects Brookfield to Danbury, offering a potential link to Danbury Hospital. However, the frequency of these buses may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges or those traveling with assistive devices. HART buses are generally equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, it is always advisable to confirm specific accessibility features with HART before relying on their services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Brookfield. These services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for non-emergency medical appointments. However, availability can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. During peak hours or in areas with limited ride-share presence, waiting times could be longer.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include ambulances for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, offering a range of services.

Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide emergency medical transport. For non-emergency appointments, companies specializing in NEMT can transport individuals to and from medical facilities. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

**Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive Assessment**

The Asthma Score for Brookfield, CT (06804) reflects a mixed picture regarding healthcare access. While driving offers the most direct and flexible option, public transportation is limited. Ride-sharing services provide an alternative, but their availability is variable. Medical transport services offer specialized support for those who need it.

**Moving to Brookfield:**

For individuals with asthma, the proximity to I-84 and the relatively short drive to Danbury Hospital are significant advantages. However, the limited public transportation options and potential for traffic delays require careful consideration.

When moving to Brookfield, it is crucial to consider proximity to medical facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for traffic delays. Researching local medical practices, specialists, and emergency care facilities is also essential.

The Asthma Score is not a definitive rating but a framework for evaluating healthcare access. It highlights the importance of considering transportation options when making a move. By understanding the landscape of healthcare access in Brookfield, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions and ensure they have reliable access to the medical care they need.