06336, Gilman, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06336, Gilman, Connecticut is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.37 percent of residents in 06336 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is William W Backus Hospital with a distance of 5.82 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 06336

The quest for optimal healthcare access, particularly when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex journey. It's a journey that extends far beyond the medical facility itself, encompassing the often-overlooked realm of transportation. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP code 06336, focusing on transportation options available for accessing breast cancer-related healthcare services. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Gilman, CT, within this ZIP code, and need to understand the realities of their healthcare access.

The geographical layout of 06336, encompassing the town of Gilman and surrounding areas, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access. The primary arteries for vehicular transportation are Interstate 395 (I-395), providing north-south connectivity, and Route 12, a vital east-west thoroughfare. These highways, while facilitating longer commutes, are often subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

For individuals requiring breast cancer screenings, diagnostic procedures, or treatment, proximity to specialized facilities is crucial. The closest comprehensive cancer centers and hospitals, offering a full spectrum of services, are located outside of Gilman. This necessitates a reliance on transportation to reach these facilities, thereby impacting the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

Let's delve into the specifics of each transportation mode.

**Driving:**

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation in 06336. The drive time to the nearest major hospitals and cancer centers varies depending on the destination and traffic conditions. To access the Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven Hospital, a premier cancer center, the drive is approximately 45-60 minutes via I-395 South and I-95 South, a journey that can be significantly lengthened during rush hour. Alternatively, the drive to Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London, CT, might take about 20-30 minutes via Route 12 South and I-95 South, offering a potentially shorter commute.

The condition of roads and the availability of parking at these facilities are also factors to consider. The time spent navigating parking garages or finding a suitable parking spot can add to the overall travel time and contribute to the stress of a healthcare visit. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle reliability and the potential financial burden of car maintenance and fuel costs.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in 06336 are limited, which significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." The Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) provides bus services within the region, but the routes and schedules may not directly serve all healthcare facilities or offer convenient connections.

The primary bus routes that might be relevant include those connecting Gilman to Norwich and New London. However, these routes often have limited frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends. The absence of dedicated bus routes to major cancer centers and hospitals necessitates multiple transfers, adding to the travel time and the potential for physical strain, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. SEAT buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the ease of navigating the bus system with mobility limitations can vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 06336, offering a potential alternative to driving or public transportation. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly in less populated areas, and the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Considerations:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 06336 is influenced by several factors. The relatively long drive times to major healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Gilman, CT, understanding these transportation challenges is essential. The ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services are crucial factors in ensuring timely access to breast cancer-related healthcare.

Furthermore, the availability of support systems, such as family members or friends who can provide transportation assistance, can significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score." The existence of local support groups and resources that offer transportation assistance to patients undergoing treatment can also mitigate the challenges.

**Conclusion:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 06336 reflects the need for careful planning and consideration when it comes to accessing breast cancer-related healthcare. While driving remains the primary mode of transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate alternative options. The limited public transportation infrastructure and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services present additional challenges.

For those considering moving to Gilman, CT, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of support systems is crucial. Proactive planning, including exploring all available transportation options, understanding the associated costs, and identifying potential sources of assistance, can significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score" and ensure that individuals in 06336 have timely and convenient access to the care they need. The health of the community depends on the ability to overcome the barriers of transportation and ensure everyone has healthcare access.