06002, Bloomfield, Connecticut Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 06002, Bloomfield, Connecticut is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.53 percent of residents in 06002 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital & Medical Center with a distance of 4.28 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 06002

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly managing hypertension, demands consistent access to quality healthcare. For residents of Bloomfield, Connecticut, specifically within the 06002 ZIP code, this access is intricately linked to the available transportation options. Understanding these options, their inherent challenges, and their impact on healthcare access is crucial for individuals living with hypertension or those considering moving to Bloomfield. This write-up will explore the landscape of transportation in 06002, assessing its influence on healthcare access and ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" for this specific geographic area.

Bloomfield, nestled in Hartford County, presents a unique transportation profile. While not a sprawling metropolis, its proximity to Hartford and the presence of major roadways create a complex web of commuting possibilities. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 91 (I-91), the primary north-south route, and the Wilbur Cross Highway (Route 15), also known as the Merritt Parkway. These highways, coupled with local roads like Cottage Grove Road, Park Avenue, and Bloomfield Avenue, define the framework for private vehicle transportation.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, a critical factor in managing hypertension, fluctuate depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. During peak commuting hours, the journey to Hartford Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, via I-91 can easily exceed 20 minutes from various points within 06002. Outside of rush hour, the same trip might take closer to 10-15 minutes. Similarly, access to Saint Francis Hospital, another significant healthcare destination, requires navigating I-91 or Route 15, again subject to traffic delays.

Public transportation, while present, offers a different set of considerations. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus routes that serve Bloomfield, providing a vital link for those without personal vehicles. CTtransit Route 901, a key route, traverses Bloomfield Avenue, connecting residents to Hartford and other surrounding towns. However, the frequency of these buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, might pose a challenge for those requiring regular medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial aspect of public transportation. CTtransit buses are equipped with features such as ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, the availability of accessible routes and the potential for longer travel times, including transfers, need to be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access for individuals with hypertension, especially those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially circumventing the limitations of public transit schedules and the complexities of private vehicle ownership. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some, particularly those on fixed incomes or with frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing also fluctuates, with potential delays during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), represent another option. These services cater specifically to individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. While they offer a dedicated solution, they often require pre-booking and may have associated costs. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical factors in ensuring timely access to healthcare.

The impact of these transportation options on healthcare access is multifaceted. For individuals with hypertension, consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and ongoing monitoring is paramount. Delays in transportation, whether due to traffic, public transit schedules, or cost, can disrupt this continuity of care. This disruption can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" for 06002, therefore, must reflect the complexities of its transportation landscape. The score should consider drive times to major healthcare providers during peak and off-peak hours. It should evaluate the frequency and accessibility of CTtransit routes, particularly the availability of ADA-compliant services. The score should also factor in the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

Furthermore, the score should acknowledge the potential challenges faced by individuals with limited mobility, those with financial constraints, and those who rely on public transportation. The presence of sidewalks, bike lanes, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, which can facilitate access to local pharmacies and clinics, should also be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Bloomfield, particularly those with hypertension, a thorough understanding of the transportation options is essential. Researching the proximity of healthcare providers, assessing the reliability of public transit, and evaluating the cost of ride-sharing are crucial steps in making an informed decision.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for 06002 is not a simple numerical value. It is a complex assessment that weighs the interplay of various transportation factors and their impact on healthcare access. While Bloomfield offers a range of transportation options, the challenges of traffic, public transit schedules, and cost must be carefully considered to ensure that residents with hypertension can consistently access the care they need to manage their condition effectively. The score should serve as a tool for residents, potential movers, and policymakers to understand the transportation landscape and its implications for health outcomes within the community.