06103, Hartford, Connecticut Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 06103, Hartford, Connecticut is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.01 percent of residents in 06103 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Connecticut Childrens Medical Center with a distance of 0.93 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06103**

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access vital healthcare services. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of hypertension-related care within Hartford's 06103 ZIP code, a crucial aspect for anyone contemplating moving to Hartford. We will examine the various transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, to assess the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities and manage their hypertension. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the challenges and advantages faced by individuals seeking care in this area.

The 06103 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Hartford, presents a diverse landscape regarding healthcare access. The availability of transportation options directly impacts the ability of residents to adhere to treatment plans, attend appointments, and receive timely medical attention. This analysis considers drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary roadways influencing healthcare access are Interstate 84 (I-84) and Interstate 91 (I-91). These highways serve as the major arteries for navigating the city and connecting to surrounding areas where medical facilities are located. The drive time to various healthcare providers is a critical factor. For example, a trip to Hartford Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from the center of 06103 can take approximately 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours, utilizing the I-84 East. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, significantly impacting access for individuals with hypertension who may need immediate medical attention.

Local roads such as Asylum Avenue, Farmington Avenue, and Albany Avenue also play a crucial role in accessing healthcare facilities. These roads provide alternative routes, especially when traffic congestion on the interstates is heavy. The efficiency of these routes depends on traffic flow, which can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the day of the week. The presence of traffic lights and the overall condition of the roads also contribute to the travel time.

Public transportation, provided primarily by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), offers another avenue for accessing healthcare. Several bus routes serve the 06103 ZIP code, including the 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, and 26. These routes connect various parts of the city to major hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. The availability of these routes is a significant advantage for individuals who do not own a car or cannot drive.

However, the effectiveness of public transit is influenced by several factors. Bus schedules, frequency of service, and the distance between bus stops and medical facilities can impact the overall travel time. For individuals with hypertension, the time spent commuting can be a significant consideration, especially if they require frequent medical appointments. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the buses is a critical factor. All CTDOT buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring that those with physical limitations can access healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to both personal vehicles and public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing residents to request a ride directly from their location to a healthcare facility. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand for rides. For individuals with hypertension, ride-sharing can be a valuable option, particularly if they need to attend appointments outside of regular public transit hours or if they have difficulty navigating public transportation.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the Hartford area, including American Medical Response (AMR) and Careline. These services can be particularly helpful for individuals with hypertension who may have difficulty traveling independently.

The "Hypertension Score" for 06103 considers these factors. The score assesses the ease with which residents can access healthcare facilities for hypertension management. The score is influenced by drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests greater challenges.

The analysis reveals that while 06103 has a range of transportation options, challenges exist. The reliance on interstates during peak hours can lead to delays, impacting access to timely care. Public transit, while available, may involve longer travel times. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, but their availability and cost must be considered.

Considering these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for 06103 reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While the availability of multiple transportation options is a positive aspect, the potential for delays due to traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit can pose challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

For individuals moving to Hartford, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The choice of residence within 06103 and its proximity to healthcare facilities and transportation hubs can significantly impact healthcare access. Planning for transportation needs, including considering the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport, is vital for effective hypertension management.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static metric. It can fluctuate based on changes in traffic patterns, improvements in public transit, or the expansion of ride-sharing services. Regular monitoring of these factors is essential to ensure that residents of 06103 have adequate access to the healthcare they need. The ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and enhance healthcare access will ultimately contribute to a healthier community.