06382, Uncasville, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06382, Uncasville, Connecticut is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.32 percent of residents in 06382 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is William W Backus Hospital with a distance of 6.27 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 06382 (Uncasville, CT)

The quest for optimal healthcare, particularly concerning a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, demands a keen understanding of accessibility. For residents of Uncasville, Connecticut (ZIP code 06382), this involves navigating the intricate web of transportation options to reach vital medical services. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" if you will, considers the ease of commute, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the specialized support of medical transportation, all crucial elements determining healthcare access. This is especially important for anyone considering moving to Uncasville, seeking a community that prioritizes well-being.

The primary arteries of transportation in and around Uncasville are the I-395 and Route 32. The I-395 provides a relatively swift north-south connection, while Route 32 serves as a more local east-west thoroughfare. The drive times to key healthcare facilities, such as the Backus Hospital Cancer Center in Norwich, will vary based on traffic, but generally, the drive is around 15-20 minutes via Route 32 or I-395, depending on the specific location within Uncasville. This relatively short commute time is a positive factor in the overall score, representing a reasonable window for timely access to care.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge for those unable to drive or lacking access to a car. This is where the public transit system, Southeastern Connecticut Transportation Authority (SECTRA), comes into play. While SECTRA offers bus routes, the frequency and reach are limited. The primary route serving Uncasville is the 901, which connects to Norwich and New London. Unfortunately, the frequency of this route may not be ideal for urgent medical appointments, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding another 30-45 minutes to the journey.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. SECTRA buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system with mobility limitations should be carefully assessed. For those with mobility issues, pre-planning and coordination are essential. The Breast Cancer Score must acknowledge the potential difficulties that public transit users may face, especially when dealing with the physical and emotional demands of breast cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation option. Their availability in Uncasville is generally good, offering on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can quickly accumulate, especially with frequent appointments. The Breast Cancer Score needs to factor in the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing, recognizing that transportation costs can become a significant burden for patients.

Beyond ride-sharing, medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for those needing assistance. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with trained personnel and vehicles equipped to accommodate patients with specific needs. These services can be invaluable for individuals who are unable to drive or require assistance during their journey. The availability and cost of these services are essential components of the overall score.

The Breast Cancer Score should also consider the availability of support services within the healthcare facilities themselves. Does the Backus Hospital Cancer Center offer transportation assistance programs or partnerships with local organizations? Are there volunteer drivers or patient navigators who can help with transportation logistics? These supportive elements can significantly enhance the overall accessibility of care.

The score also needs to consider the proximity to specialized cancer centers. While Backus Hospital provides comprehensive cancer care, including oncology and radiation therapy, patients may need to travel further afield for specialized treatments or clinical trials. The drive time to major cancer centers in New Haven (Yale New Haven Hospital) or Boston (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute) can be significant, potentially adding hours to the travel time. This factor must be weighed in the overall score, recognizing the potential need for longer journeys.

The physical environment of Uncasville itself influences the score. Are there sidewalks and crosswalks that facilitate walking or wheelchair use to access bus stops or local services? The walkability of the area impacts the overall accessibility for those without a vehicle. The score must reflect the ease or difficulty of navigating the local environment.

The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, is not a single number but a multifaceted assessment. It considers the convenience of driving, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, the specialized support of medical transportation, and the availability of supportive services within the healthcare system. The score also factors in the proximity to specialized cancer centers and the walkability of the local environment.

For residents of Uncasville, the score is moderately positive. The relatively short drive times to Backus Hospital Cancer Center offer reasonable access to care. However, the limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transportation and the presence of supportive services within the healthcare system are positive factors.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Uncasville (06382) highlights the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access. While the area offers reasonable access to basic cancer care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Uncasville and seeking a community that prioritizes comprehensive healthcare access. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a vital component of the overall well-being of individuals facing this challenging diagnosis.