06384, Voluntown, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06384, Voluntown, Connecticut is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.37 percent of residents in 06384 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is William W Backus Hospital with a distance of 13.44 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06384

The quaint New England town of Voluntown, Connecticut, nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, offers a certain rural charm. Residents of ZIP code 06384, however, face a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for specialized services like breast cancer treatment. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for anyone considering moving to Voluntown or currently residing there. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment of the ease and efficiency of commuting to healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer care, considering various transportation options.

The score will weigh factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transportation options. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the realities of navigating the healthcare system from Voluntown, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

**The Driving Landscape: A Road Less Traveled**

The primary mode of transportation in Voluntown is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The town's location, far from major urban centers, necessitates reliance on cars for most errands, including medical appointments. The major arteries serving the area are Route 165, Route 49, and Route 138, which offer a scenic, if sometimes slow, passage.

For breast cancer care, residents of 06384 will likely need to travel to larger hospitals and specialized clinics located in Norwich, New London, or Westerly, Rhode Island. The drive to The William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich, a common destination for healthcare, involves a journey of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Voluntown. This commute typically involves navigating Route 165 and then either Route 82 or Route 2, depending on the destination within Norwich.

Traveling to Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London takes about 35-45 minutes. This route involves a combination of Route 165, Route 2, and I-95. The drive to Westerly Hospital in Rhode Island is roughly 30-40 minutes, primarily via Route 49 and Route 95.

These drive times, while manageable, can become significantly longer during peak hours, inclement weather, or in the event of accidents. The rural nature of the roads also means limited options for alternative routes if a delay occurs. This reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on those without access to a car or those who are unable to drive due to health conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Voluntown and the surrounding areas is limited. The Southeastern Area Transit District (SEAT) provides bus service, but its routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting towns within New London County. While SEAT does offer some routes that pass through or near Voluntown, they are not designed for direct access to major hospitals or cancer treatment centers.

Furthermore, the limited frequency of bus services means that relying on public transit for medical appointments requires significant planning and can involve lengthy wait times. The lack of direct routes and the need for transfers further complicate the journey. ADA-accessible buses are available, but the overall accessibility of the system for those with mobility challenges remains a concern due to the limited reach and frequency of service.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in more urban areas. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in the evenings. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, medical transport services often require advance booking and can be expensive, posing a financial barrier for some residents.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for transportation and healthcare access in ZIP code 06384 is moderate. While driving times to hospitals and cancer treatment centers are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges.

The score is negatively impacted by the following: the lack of direct public transportation to specialized medical facilities, the limited availability of ride-share services, and the cost of medical transportation. The score is positively influenced by the relatively short driving distances to several hospitals and the availability of personal vehicles for many residents.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Voluntown or those already residing there, it is essential to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. If reliable access to a personal vehicle is unavailable, the challenges of commuting to healthcare facilities become significantly more pronounced.

Residents should explore all available options, including:

* **Planning ahead:** Scheduling appointments well in advance and allowing ample time for travel, accounting for potential delays.
* **Utilizing ride-share services:** Exploring the availability and cost of ride-share services, and considering them as a backup option.
* **Investigating medical transportation:** Researching and contacting medical transportation providers to understand their services and costs.
* **Advocating for improved public transit:** Contacting local and regional transportation authorities to advocate for improved public transit options, including routes that directly serve medical facilities.
* **Exploring telehealth:** Utilizing telehealth services for appropriate medical appointments to reduce the need for travel.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not just about the quality of medical care but also about the ability to get there. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare and ensuring that residents of Voluntown can receive the timely and appropriate care they deserve. The rural setting of 06384 presents unique challenges, but with careful planning, proactive engagement, and a willingness to explore all available options, residents can navigate the transportation hurdles and access the healthcare they need.