06259, Pomfret Center, Connecticut Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 06259, Pomfret Center, Connecticut is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.68 percent of residents in 06259 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Day Kimball Hospital with a distance of 4.38 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Pomfret Center (06259)

The quiet charm of Pomfret Center, Connecticut (ZIP code 06259), offers a tranquil escape. However, the idyllic setting presents unique challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This write-up assesses the “Hypertension Score” for 06259, evaluating the ease with which residents can access essential medical services, focusing on transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-share and medical transport services. For those considering moving to Pomfret Center, this analysis is crucial for understanding the realities of healthcare access.

The primary concern for residents with hypertension is consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. This necessitates a careful examination of transportation options. Residents must be able to reach their primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies with relative ease, especially during emergencies. The “Hypertension Score” will reflect the efficiency and reliability of available transportation methods.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

For many Pomfret Center residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The area's rural nature necessitates understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities. The closest hospitals are Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam (approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 44 and Route 169) and UMass Memorial Health – Harrington Hospital in Southbridge, Massachusetts (approximately 25-35 minutes via Route 44 and Route 193).

These drive times, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during winter. Route 44, a major thoroughfare, can experience congestion during peak hours. Route 169, a more scenic but often slower route, is also a vital link. Route 193, connecting to Massachusetts, offers a direct route but is subject to traffic.

Accessing specialty care may require longer drives. For example, reaching Hartford Hospital (approximately 50-60 minutes via I-395 and I-84) or Yale New Haven Hospital (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via I-395 and I-95) can be time-consuming. These longer commutes pose challenges for individuals with hypertension, particularly during urgent situations. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect these time-related limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Pomfret Center is extremely limited. The Northeast Transportation Company (NET) provides bus service in the region. However, service within Pomfret Center itself is sparse, with routes primarily focused on connecting to larger towns like Putnam and Danielson. These routes may not directly serve medical facilities.

NET buses are typically equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers significantly increase travel times. For individuals with hypertension, the reliance on public transit for healthcare access presents considerable challenges, especially during emergencies. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the limited utility of public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Senior Transportation and other local providers offer door-to-door service, often with trained staff and specialized vehicles. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be expensive. While valuable, their availability and cost impact the "Hypertension Score."

**Pharmacy Access: Medication is Key**

Accessing medications is critical for managing hypertension. Local pharmacies, such as those located in Putnam and Danielson, are accessible via car. Drive times to these pharmacies are similar to those for accessing medical facilities.

The availability of mail-order pharmacies offers an alternative, providing convenience for medication refills. However, this option requires careful planning and coordination with healthcare providers. The "Hypertension Score" considers the ease of access to both physical pharmacies and mail-order options.

**Emergency Services: Time is of the Essence**

In the event of a hypertensive crisis, rapid access to emergency medical services is paramount. The Pomfret Volunteer Fire Department and local emergency medical services (EMS) are the first responders. The proximity to Day Kimball Hospital provides a crucial advantage. However, the response time and the drive time to the hospital are critical factors. The "Hypertension Score" takes into account the efficiency of emergency response systems.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Moving to Pomfret Center**

The "Hypertension Score" for 06259 reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers a peaceful environment, healthcare access presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options can create barriers for residents with hypertension. Ride-share services and medical transport provide alternatives, but their availability and cost must be considered.

For those considering moving to Pomfret Center, a thorough understanding of these transportation limitations is essential. Individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate their ability to manage their healthcare needs within the constraints of the available transportation options. Planning for potential emergencies and establishing a reliable transportation network are crucial for maintaining optimal health. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a vital tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access in this charming but geographically isolated community. The score will likely be in the moderate range, with room for improvement with increased public transit options or ride-share availability. The score is a dynamic measure, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare access.