06119, West Hartford, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06119, West Hartford, Connecticut is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.89 percent of residents in 06119 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital & Medical Center with a distance of 1.66 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 06119

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires reliable **transportation**, swift access to specialized care, and a supportive environment. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 06119 (West Hartford, CT), aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluating the ease of accessing vital breast cancer services, from screening to treatment, considering the **transportation** landscape. This is especially relevant for those **moving to West Hartford**, seeking to understand the practicalities of healthcare access.

Our assessment considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a realistic picture of the journey a patient might face, highlighting both strengths and potential challenges in accessing critical **healthcare access** within this community.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Recovery**

Driving remains a primary mode of **transportation** for many in West Hartford. The proximity of key medical facilities significantly influences the Breast Cancer Score.

Hartford Hospital, a major cancer center, is generally accessible within a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. Accessing the hospital usually involves navigating I-84 East or West, crucial arteries for commuters. Alternatively, Route 44 (Albany Avenue) provides a more direct route, though it can experience congestion, especially during peak hours.

The UConn Health Center, another significant healthcare provider, typically requires a 20-30 minute drive, also depending on traffic conditions. This journey often involves using I-84 West, potentially encountering delays. Route 6 (Farmington Avenue) offers an alternative, but it's also prone to congestion.

The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, a renowned cancer treatment facility, is approximately a 2-hour drive via I-91 South and I-95 South. This long commute necessitates careful planning, especially for frequent appointments.

These drive times, while generally manageable, can be significantly impacted by rush hour, weather conditions, and unexpected road closures. This underscores the importance of considering alternative **transportation** options.

**Public Transit Pathways: Navigating the System**

Public transit offers an alternative, but its impact on the Breast Cancer Score in 06119 is more nuanced.

CTtransit, the state's primary bus service, provides routes that serve West Hartford. Route 60, for example, connects West Hartford Center to Hartford, including stops near Hartford Hospital. Route 66 offers a similar route, with variations.

The availability of public transit is a significant factor in **healthcare access**. However, bus routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, requiring transfers. The frequency of buses, especially during off-peak hours, can also be a limiting factor.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. CTtransit buses are generally equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the availability of accessible stops and the ease of navigating transfers can vary. This is particularly important for patients undergoing treatment who may have mobility limitations.

The overall reliance on public transit for cancer treatment in 06119 is limited due to longer travel times and the need for frequent transfers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding the Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another layer of **transportation** options, enhancing the Breast Cancer Score. These services provide on-demand rides, offering convenience and flexibility, especially for those unable to drive.

The availability of ride-sharing services in West Hartford is generally good, with relatively short wait times. This is particularly beneficial for patients needing to attend appointments or receive treatment.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent trips. Additionally, the reliability of these services can be impacted by weather conditions and driver availability.

Medical transport services, such as CareLine and MedRide, specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. They can be invaluable for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring extra support.

The availability of medical transport services in 06119 is generally good. However, it's essential to book these services in advance, especially for appointments at specialized facilities.

**The Score: A Composite View**

The Breast Cancer Score for 06119 is a composite of these factors. The score would be considered "Good" based on drive times to major hospitals, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options.

However, the score is tempered by the limitations of public transit, potential traffic congestion, and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport. The score is also influenced by the distance to specialized cancer centers like Memorial Sloan Kettering.

**Considerations for Moving to West Hartford**

For individuals **moving to West Hartford** and seeking to assess the healthcare landscape, this analysis provides a practical framework.

Consider the following:

* **Proximity to hospitals:** Evaluate the drive times to hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care.
* **Reliance on **transportation**: Assess your ability to drive or your reliance on alternative **transportation** methods.
* **Financial resources:** Factor in the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport.
* **Support network:** Consider the availability of family or friends to assist with **transportation**.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a definitive measure, but a guide to understanding the complexities of accessing breast cancer care in 06119. It highlights the importance of planning, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach to **healthcare access**.

The Breast Cancer Score will continue to evolve. Infrastructure changes, the availability of new **transportation** options, and the expansion of healthcare services will influence the score over time. The goal is to foster a community that prioritizes **healthcare access** and supports individuals navigating the challenges of breast cancer.