06118, East Hartford, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06118, East Hartford, Connecticut is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.48 percent of residents in 06118 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hartford Hospital with a distance of 3.71 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 06118

For those considering a move to East Hartford, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06118), understanding healthcare access, particularly for a critical illness like breast cancer, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a subjective assessment of transportation options and their impact on accessing diagnostic and treatment services. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a nuanced perspective on navigating the healthcare landscape.

East Hartford, nestled along the Connecticut River, presents a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. However, healthcare access, especially for specialized services, can be significantly influenced by transportation. The Breast Cancer Score aims to illuminate these nuances, helping potential residents make informed decisions.

The score is not a definitive medical evaluation, but rather a guide to the practicalities of accessing breast cancer care. It acknowledges that timely access to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care is crucial for positive outcomes. The score considers the realities of daily life, including traffic, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transportation options.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The primary arteries for transportation in 06118 are I-84, I-91, and Route 2. These highways are vital for connecting residents to major medical centers. The drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, such as the Hartford Hospital Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center, is a crucial benchmark. Under ideal conditions, a drive via I-84 West typically takes 10-15 minutes. However, rush hour, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this time, potentially doubling it.

For appointments at smaller clinics or specialized imaging centers, such as those in Glastonbury or Manchester, the drive times are generally shorter, ranging from 5-10 minutes via Route 2 East or I-84 East. However, these routes can also experience congestion, especially around the Buckland Hills area.

Parking availability at these medical facilities is another factor. While most offer ample parking, the ease of finding a spot and the associated walking distance can impact the overall experience, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

Connecticut's public transit system, managed by CTtransit, offers a network of bus routes serving East Hartford. Several routes, including the 84, 88, and 91, provide connections to Hartford and surrounding towns. These routes are crucial for individuals without personal vehicles.

Accessing healthcare via public transit requires careful planning. The 84 route, for instance, connects East Hartford to Hartford Hospital. The journey can take upwards of 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and transfers. While CTtransit strives for punctuality, delays are possible, potentially causing patients to miss appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. CTtransit buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, individuals with mobility issues should verify the accessibility of specific routes and bus stops, as some may lack proper ramps or accessible pathways.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services are readily available in 06118, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized transport providers, cater to patients with specific needs, including those requiring wheelchair assistance or stretcher transport. These services often require advance booking and may be covered by insurance, depending on the patient's medical condition and the insurance plan.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Subjective Assessment**

Considering all factors, the Breast Cancer Score for 06118 is moderately favorable. While the proximity to major medical centers is a significant advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles or the potential for delays with public transit and traffic congestion warrant caution.

The score is positively influenced by the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options. However, the cost of these services and the need for advance planning can be a drawback.

**Implications for Moving to East Hartford**

For individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk, the Breast Cancer Score provides valuable insights. Potential residents should consider the following:

* **Proximity to healthcare:** The location within 06118 should be evaluated based on its proximity to major roads and public transit routes.
* **Transportation options:** The ability to drive, the reliability of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services should be assessed.
* **Financial considerations:** The cost of transportation, including gas, parking, ride-sharing, and medical transport, should be factored into the budget.
* **Accessibility needs:** Individuals with mobility issues should prioritize homes near accessible bus stops and medical facilities.

**Conclusion: Informed Choices for Health**

The Breast Cancer Score is a tool to empower potential residents of 06118 to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can proactively plan for their medical needs, ensuring timely access to essential services. This score, while subjective, emphasizes the importance of considering all aspects of transportation when evaluating a new community, particularly when dealing with a health concern as critical as breast cancer. Moving to East Hartford offers opportunities, but informed planning is key to navigating the complexities of healthcare access and ensuring a supportive environment for health and well-being.