06010, Bristol, Connecticut Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 06010, Bristol, Connecticut is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.17 percent of residents in 06010 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bristol Hospital with a distance of 0.52 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bristol, CT (ZIP Code 06010)

Considering a move to Bristol, Connecticut, ZIP code 06010, and managing hypertension? Understanding the ease of **transportation** to your healthcare providers is crucial. This "Hypertension Score" write-up explores the accessibility of medical care, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, all vital components of **healthcare access** in this city. This analysis aims to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your **moving to Bristol** experience, ensuring your health needs are met.

Bristol, nestled in Hartford County, offers a blend of suburban and urban living. The city's layout and transportation infrastructure directly influence a resident's ability to reach medical appointments, a critical factor for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This score considers the practicalities of getting to your doctor, the pharmacy, and any specialized care you might require.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For those who prefer the convenience of a personal vehicle, the primary roadways in and around Bristol are essential. Interstate 84 (I-84) acts as a major artery, connecting Bristol to Hartford and Waterbury. Access to I-84 is readily available from various points within 06010, typically requiring a short drive. Depending on traffic, travel times to major hospitals and specialist offices in Hartford, for instance, can range from 20 to 45 minutes.

Route 6, running east-west, is another key thoroughfare within Bristol, providing access to local businesses, medical facilities, and neighboring towns. Route 72, a north-south route, also plays a significant role in local traffic flow. The city's streets, including North Main Street, Pine Street, and Farmington Avenue, are crucial for navigating within Bristol itself.

Drive times to medical facilities within Bristol are generally manageable. Bristol Hospital, a central healthcare provider, is easily accessible from most locations within the ZIP code, with drive times usually under 15 minutes. However, peak traffic times, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can add to travel durations.

**Public Transportation Options:**

For residents who rely on public transit, the availability and efficiency of bus services are vital. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) provides bus service in the Bristol area, though the network might not be as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas. The CTtransit system, operating in the Hartford area, provides limited service to Bristol.

Specific routes serving 06010 include Route 120, which provides service to downtown Bristol and connects to other routes. It is essential to check the CTtransit website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair ramps and audio-visual announcements, are available on CTtransit buses, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The frequency of bus service can vary depending on the route and time of day. Planning trips in advance and allowing ample time for travel is crucial, especially for medical appointments. Consider the potential for delays and the need to transfer between routes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Bristol and offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly useful for short trips to medical appointments or pharmacies. Availability may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other health needs. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, providing door-to-door assistance for appointments. These services often require pre-booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria.

**Evaluating Healthcare Access:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 06010 considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average travel time to primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, reliability, and ADA compliance of bus routes serving medical facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The ease of accessing Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of NEMT services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance to Bristol Hospital and other healthcare providers.

The score is a subjective assessment based on these factors. A higher score indicates better access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. For individuals managing hypertension, a high score is particularly important, as it reflects the ease of adhering to treatment plans, attending appointments, and obtaining necessary medications.

**Practical Considerations for Managing Hypertension:**

Living with hypertension requires proactive management, including regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. When **moving to Bristol**, consider the following:

* **Choose a primary care physician (PCP) within reasonable driving distance.**
* **Identify local pharmacies with convenient locations and prescription refill services.**
* **Familiarize yourself with the CTtransit bus routes and schedules.**
* **Explore ride-sharing options and medical transport services.**
* **Factor in travel time when scheduling appointments.**
* **Consider the availability of telehealth services for routine check-ups.**

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare in Bristol, CT (06010) requires careful consideration of **transportation** options. While driving offers the most flexibility, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport provide valuable alternatives. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of assessing these factors when making decisions about **healthcare access** and **moving to Bristol**. By understanding the available resources and planning accordingly, individuals can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their well-being in this Connecticut city.