06793, Washington, Connecticut Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 06793, Washington, Connecticut is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.09 percent of residents in 06793 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Waterbury Hospital with a distance of 13.08 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 06793

The journey to manage hypertension in ZIP code 06793, encompassing the vibrant city of Washington, Connecticut, is a multifaceted one, deeply intertwined with the nuances of transportation and healthcare access. This write-up explores the landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" based on the available options, weighing the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely and effective care. For those considering moving to Washington, understanding this score is crucial.

The score reflects the ease with which individuals can access essential healthcare services, particularly those related to hypertension management. It considers drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. The higher the score, the better the healthcare access, and the lower the burden of transportation.

**The Drive Time Dilemma:**

Washington, nestled in the Litchfield Hills, presents a unique transportation challenge. While scenic, the winding roads and rural character influence healthcare access. The primary arteries for travel are Route 47, Route 109, and Route 199, which converge and diverge, creating a network of potential delays.

Driving to the nearest hospitals and specialized care facilities is often the most common mode of transportation. The closest major hospitals are in New Milford (New Milford Hospital, now part of Nuvance Health) and Danbury (Danbury Hospital, also part of Nuvance Health). Drive times vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day.

Reaching New Milford Hospital via Route 202 and Route 7 can take approximately 20-30 minutes in optimal conditions. However, during peak hours or adverse weather, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour. Danbury Hospital, accessible via Route 199, Route 7, and I-84, presents a longer journey, typically taking 40-60 minutes. Traffic congestion on I-84 can significantly impact this travel time, making it a less reliable option, particularly during emergencies.

Specialist appointments, such as those with cardiologists or nephrologists, may require travel to larger medical centers further afield, potentially extending drive times to over an hour. The reliance on personal vehicles emphasizes the importance of vehicle maintenance and the potential impact of transportation costs on healthcare affordability.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Washington are limited. The area lacks a robust public transit system, which significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The Greater Waterbury Transit District (GWT) provides some limited service in the surrounding areas, but routes rarely extend directly into Washington.

The availability of public transit is especially crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The absence of reliable public transportation creates a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for routine check-ups and medication refills. The lack of ADA-accessible features on existing routes further exacerbates this challenge.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in rural areas like Washington can be inconsistent. Ride-sharing services may experience longer wait times and higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can add to the cost and inconvenience of accessing healthcare.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by ambulance companies and private medical transport providers, are available for individuals with specific medical needs. These services are essential for emergency situations and for those requiring assistance with transportation due to physical limitations. However, they can be expensive and may require pre-booking.

**The Hypertension Score for 06793:**

Considering the factors above, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 06793 is moderate. The score reflects a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. While the proximity to hospitals is relatively reasonable, traffic and road conditions can significantly impact travel times.
* **Public Transit:** Low. Limited public transportation options create a significant barrier to healthcare access.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** Moderate. Availability is variable, and costs can be a concern.

**Overall Score: 6/10**

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For residents of 06793, particularly those managing hypertension, proactive planning is crucial. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician in the area is paramount. Exploring telehealth options for routine check-ups and medication refills can help mitigate the transportation challenges.

Those considering moving to Washington should factor in the transportation limitations when assessing their healthcare needs. Researching the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers is essential. Understanding the potential impact of transportation costs on healthcare affordability is also vital.

Advocating for improved public transportation options and exploring initiatives to enhance healthcare access in rural areas can help improve the Hypertension Score for 06793. This includes supporting programs that provide transportation assistance to individuals with chronic conditions and advocating for increased telehealth services.

By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents of Washington can navigate the challenges and ensure they receive the timely and effective care they deserve. The pursuit of optimal healthcare access is an ongoing process, and the community must work together to improve the Hypertension Score and enhance the well-being of all its residents.