06374, Plainfield, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06374, Plainfield, Connecticut is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.95 percent of residents in 06374 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is William W Backus Hospital with a distance of 13.27 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plainfield, CT (ZIP Code 06374)

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis can be daunting. Beyond the medical complexities, the practicalities of healthcare access – the ability to *transport* oneself to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care – become critically important. This write-up assesses the *healthcare access* landscape for individuals residing in Plainfield, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06374), focusing on breast cancer-related services and the *transportation* options available. Understanding these factors is crucial, especially for those *moving to Plainfield* and seeking reliable healthcare.

Plainfield, nestled in eastern Connecticut, presents a unique geographical challenge. While offering a tranquil, rural lifestyle, its proximity to major medical centers is a key consideration for those needing specialized care. The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, evaluates the ease with which residents can reach essential breast cancer services, factoring in drive times, public transit, and alternative *transportation* solutions.

The primary healthcare hub for Plainfield residents is Backus Hospital in Norwich, roughly 15 miles away. This drive, typically taking 20-30 minutes, utilizes major roadways like Route 395 and Route 14. Traffic flow is generally manageable, but rush hour can extend travel times. The availability of parking at Backus Hospital is usually adequate, but it's wise to factor in extra time, particularly for appointments early in the morning.

For specialized breast cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and advanced diagnostics, many Plainfield residents seek out facilities in New London, approximately 25 miles away. The journey involves navigating Route 395 South and then connecting to I-95. This commute can take 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The I-95 corridor is known for its congestion, especially during peak hours and on weekends, potentially impacting *healthcare access*.

Yale New Haven Hospital, a nationally recognized center for cancer care, is a more significant undertaking, approximately 65 miles away. This drive involves using Route 395 South to I-95 South, which can take upwards of 1 hour and 15 minutes, and potentially longer during periods of heavy traffic. This distance necessitates careful planning and consideration of *transportation* options, especially for frequent appointments.

Public transit in Plainfield is limited. The Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) provides bus service throughout the region. While SEAT does serve Plainfield, the routes and schedules are not directly tailored to medical appointments, and the frequency of service is limited. Furthermore, the routes do not directly connect to all the major hospitals, necessitating multiple transfers. ADA-accessible buses are available on all SEAT routes, ensuring *healthcare access* for individuals with mobility challenges.

For those relying on public transit, the journey to Backus Hospital would likely involve taking the SEAT bus to Norwich and then transferring to another route, potentially adding significant time to the commute. Reaching New London or Yale New Haven Hospital via public transit would be considerably more complex, involving multiple transfers and extended travel times. This highlights a significant challenge in *healthcare access* for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Plainfield, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. Booking rides in advance is recommended to ensure timely *transportation* to medical appointments.

Several medical *transportation* services cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service, ensuring patients are safely transported. While these services offer peace of mind, they come with associated costs, which may be covered by insurance in certain circumstances. Researching and pre-arranging medical *transportation* is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive themselves.

When *moving to Plainfield*, prospective residents should carefully consider their *healthcare access* needs. Assessing the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of *transportation* options, and the potential for travel delays is essential. The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness.

The Breast Cancer Score for Plainfield, CT (06374) reflects a mixed landscape. While the proximity to Backus Hospital provides reasonable *healthcare access*, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing for specialized care in New London or Yale New Haven Hospital presents challenges. Public transit options are limited, and the availability of ride-sharing services can vary.

For individuals *moving to Plainfield* with a history of breast cancer or a family history of the disease, a thorough assessment of *transportation* needs is vital. This includes exploring all available options, from personal vehicles and ride-sharing services to medical *transportation* providers. It is also essential to understand the insurance coverage for *transportation* assistance.

Furthermore, it is crucial to establish a relationship with a primary care physician in Plainfield. This physician can serve as a crucial resource, providing referrals to specialists, coordinating care, and offering guidance on navigating the *healthcare access* system. They can also assist with understanding insurance coverage and accessing resources for *transportation* assistance.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Plainfield, CT (06374) highlights the importance of proactive planning for *healthcare access*. While the community offers a peaceful setting, its geographical location necessitates careful consideration of *transportation* options, particularly for those requiring specialized breast cancer care. By understanding the available resources and planning accordingly, residents can ensure timely access to essential medical services and support.