06279, Willington, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06279, Willington, Connecticut is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.97 percent of residents in 06279 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Day Kimball Hospital with a distance of 18.29 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Willington, CT (ZIP Code 06279)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates accessible, reliable, and efficient **transportation**. This write-up analyzes the **transportation** landscape surrounding breast cancer care for residents of Willington, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06279), providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on factors influencing **healthcare access**. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for those **moving to Willington** or seeking care within the area.

Willington, a primarily rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to **healthcare access**. The relative remoteness, coupled with limited public transit, necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options for individuals facing the complexities of breast cancer treatment. The availability and efficiency of **transportation** directly impact the patient's ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and receive vital support.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Care**

The primary arteries for reaching comprehensive breast cancer care from Willington are Interstate 84 (I-84) and Route 44. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in surrounding towns and cities, requiring varying drive times depending on traffic and destination.

Hartford Hospital, a major healthcare provider with a dedicated cancer center, is approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive via I-84 West. This route, while generally efficient, can be susceptible to traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially adding significant time to the commute. The drive involves navigating several exits and merges, requiring drivers to be alert and aware.

Another significant option is the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, which is also accessible via I-84 West, with a similar drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes. This route offers a direct path, but again, traffic remains a variable.

For those seeking care closer to home, the UConn Health John Dempsey Hospital in Farmington, CT, is another option. The drive, primarily via I-84 West, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This option provides access to specialized cancer care, but requires a longer commute than Hartford-based facilities.

The drive times mentioned above are estimates and can fluctuate based on traffic, weather conditions, and individual driving styles. The Breast Cancer Score considers these factors, acknowledging that longer drive times can exacerbate the stress and burden of treatment.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transit options in Willington are significantly limited, presenting a major hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus routes, but their frequency and coverage in the area are sparse.

The primary bus route serving Willington is the 904 route, which connects to the CTfastrak system in Hartford. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with typically only a few scheduled trips per day. This makes it challenging for patients needing to attend appointments or treatments at specific times.

The 904 route is not fully ADA-accessible, which is a significant concern for patients with mobility limitations. While some buses are equipped with ramps and other accessibility features, availability may be limited. Patients relying on public transit must carefully plan their trips, factoring in potential delays and accessibility issues.

The limited public transit options significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score, highlighting the challenges faced by those without access to a car or the financial means for alternative **transportation**. The lack of reliable public transit can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress for patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Willington, offering an alternative **transportation** option, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a car. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some patients, as frequent trips to and from appointments can quickly become expensive. The Breast Cancer Score considers the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing services.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized medical **transportation** providers, provide a crucial lifeline for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services offer door-to-door **transportation**, ensuring patients can safely and comfortably reach their appointments.

However, medical transport services can be costly and may require advance booking. The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges the importance of these services while also considering the financial and logistical challenges associated with their use.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 06279 is a composite metric, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Proximity to cancer centers and hospitals, with longer drive times negatively impacting the score.
* **Public Transit:** Frequency, accessibility, and reliability of bus routes, with limited options lowering the score.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Consistency and cost of ride-sharing services, with inconsistent availability and high costs negatively affecting the score.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability, cost, and ease of access to medical **transportation** services, with limited access and high costs lowering the score.

Based on these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for Willington, CT (ZIP Code 06279) is moderate. While the area offers access to quality cancer care, the limited public transit and potential reliance on personal vehicles or costly ride-sharing services present significant challenges for patients. The score highlights the need for improved public transit options, increased awareness of medical **transportation** services, and potential financial assistance programs to alleviate the burden of **transportation** for individuals facing breast cancer.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

For those **moving to Willington** or residing in the area, understanding the **transportation** landscape is crucial. The Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for assessing **healthcare access** and planning for the complexities of treatment. While the region offers access to excellent medical care, the **transportation** challenges necessitate careful planning, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach to ensure patients can receive the care they need. The score underscores the importance of advocating for improved public transit, supporting medical transport services, and exploring financial assistance programs to enhance the **healthcare access** for all residents. The journey through breast cancer is arduous; simplifying the **transportation** aspect can make a significant difference.