06354, Moosup, Connecticut COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 06354, Moosup, Connecticut is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.10 percent of residents in 06354 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Day Kimball Hospital with a distance of 13.32 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Moosup (06354)

The quaint New England town of Moosup, nestled within the 06354 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up, a "COPD Score," examines the accessibility of healthcare services, particularly concerning transportation options. It's a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Moosup, offering a detailed perspective on navigating the area with COPD. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Moosup is the availability of medical facilities. While the town itself may not boast a sprawling hospital, the proximity to larger healthcare centers in surrounding areas is critical. The primary consideration for anyone with COPD is the speed and ease of reaching these facilities during a flare-up or for routine appointments. This necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation. For those residing in Moosup, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Route 14 and Route 169. Route 14, a vital east-west thoroughfare, connects Moosup to Putnam and Plainfield, offering access to hospitals and specialist offices. Route 169, running north-south, provides a route to larger cities and healthcare providers in the region.

Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic and the time of day. During peak hours, navigating Route 14 can be challenging, particularly near intersections. Expect a drive to Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam to take approximately 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions, potentially extending to 30 minutes during rush hour. Similarly, accessing Backus Hospital in Norwich via Route 169 and Route 2 can take around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic flow. The ability to manage these drive times, particularly during a respiratory crisis, is a vital consideration for COPD patients.

Public transportation presents an alternative, though its availability is limited. The Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) provides bus services in the region. However, the coverage within Moosup and its surrounding areas is sparse. Route 901, which runs through Plainfield and connects to other routes, might offer a connection to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not directly serve all medical locations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor for COPD patients. SEAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route options and potential for long wait times make public transit a less-than-ideal choice for those experiencing breathing difficulties. The reliance on public transit for healthcare access in Moosup presents a considerable challenge for many COPD patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. While these services are available in the area, their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, making it a potentially expensive option for frequent medical appointments. The dependence on ride-sharing services for healthcare access can be a significant financial burden.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include trained personnel and equipment to assist patients with mobility challenges and medical emergencies. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including American Ambulance and AMR (American Medical Response). While these services offer a higher level of care and support, they come with a higher price tag. The utilization of medical transport is often reserved for emergency situations or when other transportation options are unavailable.

The "COPD Score" for transportation access in Moosup, therefore, is moderate. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a car. Public transportation is limited and may not be a viable option for many COPD patients. Ride-sharing services are available but unreliable and costly. Medical transport provides specialized care but is expensive.

Moving to Moosup requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. Individuals with COPD should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or medical transport. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities or ensuring access to reliable transportation is crucial for maintaining quality of life.

Healthcare access in Moosup is not insurmountable, but it requires proactive planning. Individuals with COPD should research the locations of healthcare providers, assess the feasibility of various transportation options, and develop contingency plans for emergencies. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is essential for managing COPD and ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care.