06451, Meriden, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06451, Meriden, Connecticut is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.34 percent of residents in 06451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Midstate Medical Center with a distance of 1.37 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Meriden, CT (ZIP Code 06451)**

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is deeply personal. For those contemplating a move to Meriden, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06451), and specifically for individuals concerned about breast cancer care, understanding the ease of transportation to vital medical services is paramount. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive overview of transportation options, painting a picture of healthcare access within this specific geographic area. We will consider drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, all factors contributing to a "Breast Cancer Score" for this ZIP code.

Meriden, a city nestled in central Connecticut, offers a blend of suburban and urban living. Its location provides relatively easy access to major highways, which is a significant advantage when considering healthcare transportation. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are Interstate 91 (I-91) and the Wilbur Cross Parkway (Route 15). I-91 runs north-south, connecting Meriden to major cities like Hartford to the north and New Haven to the south. Route 15, also known as the Merritt Parkway in certain sections, offers a more scenic route, though it’s not designed for heavy commercial traffic.

The drive times to key healthcare facilities from 06451 are crucial. The MidState Medical Center, located within Meriden itself, is a primary destination. Drive times to this facility are generally short, typically under 10 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. For more specialized care, like that offered at Yale New Haven Hospital, the drive time via I-91 is usually around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Hartford Hospital, another major regional medical center, is accessible via I-91, with a drive time of approximately 30-40 minutes. These drive times are estimates and can vary significantly during peak traffic hours.

Public transportation presents another facet of healthcare access. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus routes that serve Meriden. The primary bus routes include the 501, 502, and 503, providing connections to neighboring towns and cities. While these routes offer a viable alternative to driving, their frequency and travel times should be considered. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical component of public transit. CTDOT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility challenges. However, it's crucial to confirm the specific features of each route and bus before relying on public transit for medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation, which can be particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The availability and cost of these services in Meriden are generally good, but it's important to factor in potential surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand. Booking in advance for medical appointments is highly recommended.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, which can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance with medical equipment. These services require advanced booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, so it's important to research and plan accordingly.

When assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" for 06451, several factors come into play. Proximity to MidState Medical Center provides a significant advantage, offering quick access to local medical services. The availability of I-91 and Route 15 provides relatively efficient transportation to larger regional medical centers, ensuring access to specialized care. The presence of public transit, while not always the most convenient option, offers a crucial alternative, especially for those who cannot drive. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services further enhance the transportation landscape, providing options for those who need them.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for 06451 is reasonably favorable, considering the combination of transportation options and the proximity to key healthcare facilities. However, it's important to acknowledge that healthcare access is not solely determined by transportation. The availability of specialized breast cancer care, the quality of medical services, and the patient's individual needs are all critical factors.

For individuals considering moving to Meriden, understanding these transportation options is essential. When assessing the suitability of a location, consider the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized care, and the individual's ability to utilize available transportation resources. Moving to Meriden presents a balanced scenario, offering reasonable healthcare access through a combination of private and public transportation options.