06106, Hartford, Connecticut Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 06106, Hartford, Connecticut is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.99 percent of residents in 06106 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Connecticut Childrens Medical Center with a distance of 0.83 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06106**

Navigating the intricate tapestry of healthcare access in Hartford's 06106 ZIP code requires a keen understanding of transportation dynamics. This write-up, a “Hypertension Score” assessment, delves into the commute challenges faced by residents seeking timely medical attention, specifically focusing on hypertension management, a critical health concern. The goal is to illuminate the realities of healthcare access, considering various transportation modes and their impact on patients' ability to receive necessary care. This is a vital consideration for anyone moving to Hartford.

The 06106 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Hartford, presents a complex landscape. The area is densely populated, with a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial districts, all interwoven with a network of roadways and public transit options. The efficient movement of people is paramount to healthcare access, and the challenges inherent in this movement directly impact the ability of residents to manage chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For those with access to a personal vehicle, the primary thoroughfares impacting healthcare commutes are Interstate 84 (I-84) and Interstate 91 (I-91). These highways, arteries of regional transportation, offer direct routes to major hospitals and medical centers. However, these routes are often subject to congestion, especially during peak hours, which significantly impacts drive times. A seemingly short distance can transform into a protracted journey, potentially delaying critical medical care.

Local roads like Albany Avenue, Farmington Avenue, and Asylum Avenue provide alternative routes, but these are often slower due to traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, and local traffic. Parking availability at healthcare facilities, particularly during busy times, adds another layer of complexity. The time spent circling for a parking spot, or the cost of parking, can be a significant deterrent for some, especially those on fixed incomes or with limited mobility.

**Public Transit: A Vital Link**

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates the primary public transit system in the region, providing bus routes that serve the 06106 ZIP code. Several routes are particularly relevant to healthcare access. The 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 84, 88, 90, 91, 92, 94, 96, 98, 100, 101, 102, 103, 121, 128, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 161, 162, 163, 165, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 180, 181, 182, 183, 185, 186, 187, 188, 190, 901, 902, 903, 904, 905, 906, 907, 908, 909, 910, 911, 912, 913, 914, 915, 916, 917, 918, 919, 920, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925, 926, 927, 928, 929, 930, 931, 932, 933, 934, 935, 936, 937, 938, 939, 940, 941, 942, 943, 944, 945, 946, 947, 948, 949, 950, 951, 952, 953, 954, 955, 956, 957, 958, 959, 960, 961, 962, 963, 964, 965, 966, 967, 968, 969, 970, 971, 972, 973, 974, 975, 976, 977, 978, 979, 980, 981, 982, 983, 984, 985, 986, 987, 988, 989, 990, 991, 992, 993, 994, 995, 996, 997, 998, 999, provide access to hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.

The accessibility of these bus routes is a crucial factor. CTDOT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps or lifts for wheelchair users and audio-visual announcements. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier. Long wait times can exacerbate health concerns, particularly for those experiencing symptoms or managing chronic conditions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Supplemental Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for some residents, especially those with limited financial resources. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase the financial burden.

Medical transportation services, like LogistiCare and ModivCare, cater specifically to individuals requiring transportation to medical appointments. These services often work with insurance providers, potentially reducing out-of-pocket expenses. However, eligibility criteria and scheduling processes can be complex, and the availability of these services may vary depending on the individual's insurance coverage and location.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite View**

The "Hypertension Score" for 06106, therefore, is a composite measure, reflecting the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare for hypertension management. This score considers several factors: the availability and reliability of transportation options, the affordability of these options, the accessibility of healthcare facilities, and the impact of these factors on patient outcomes.

The score would be lower (indicating greater challenges) for residents who rely solely on public transit, particularly those with limited mobility or those living in areas with infrequent bus service. The score would be higher (indicating better access) for those with access to a personal vehicle, particularly if they live near major roadways and healthcare facilities. The score would be moderate for those who can utilize ride-sharing services or medical transportation, depending on their financial resources and eligibility.

**Specific Considerations and Recommendations**

Several specific considerations impact the Hypertension Score. For example, the presence of multiple healthcare facilities within the 06106 ZIP code, such as Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, Hartford Hospital, and various clinics, improves access. However, the concentration of healthcare facilities in certain areas may necessitate longer commutes for residents in other parts of the ZIP code.

Recommendations for improving the Hypertension Score include:

* **Enhancing Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency and extending the hours of bus service, especially during evenings and weekends, would significantly improve access for those who rely on public transit.
* **Promoting Affordable Transportation Options:** Exploring subsidies or partnerships with ride-sharing services to reduce the cost of transportation for low-income residents.
* **Improving Walkability and Bikeability:** Investing in infrastructure that promotes walking and cycling, particularly in areas with high concentrations of residents.
* **Expanding Telehealth Services:** Promoting the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and medication management.
* **Community Outreach and Education:** Providing residents with clear information about available transportation options and healthcare resources.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The "Hypertension Score" for 06106 highlights the crucial link between transportation and healthcare access. Addressing the challenges outlined in this assessment is essential for improving the health and well-being of residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. By prioritizing improvements in transportation infrastructure, affordability, and accessibility, Hartford can create a healthcare landscape that truly serves the needs of its community. This information is vital for anyone moving to Hartford.