06066, Vernon Rockville, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06066, Vernon Rockville, Connecticut is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.70 percent of residents in 06066 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rockville General Hospital with a distance of 1.61 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Vernon Rockville (ZIP Code 06066)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and efficient access to specialized care. For residents of Vernon Rockville (ZIP Code 06066), understanding the landscape of transportation options becomes paramount in navigating this challenging journey. This write-up delves into the intricacies of **transportation** options available, evaluating their impact on **healthcare access** and providing a Lung Cancer Score assessment for those living in, or **moving to Vernon Rockville**.

The score considers factors like drive times to hospitals, public transit reliability, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of specialized medical transport services. These elements are weighed to provide a comprehensive picture of the ease with which individuals can reach essential oncology services.

The primary healthcare hubs for lung cancer treatment in the region include Hartford Hospital, located approximately 20 miles southwest, and Saint Francis Hospital, also in Hartford, roughly 22 miles away. These distances translate to significant time commitments, especially considering the unpredictable nature of traffic.

Driving to Hartford Hospital from Vernon Rockville involves navigating Interstate 84 (I-84) and often requires utilizing Route 30. During peak rush hour, this drive can easily extend beyond 45 minutes, potentially jeopardizing timely appointments or urgent care needs. Similarly, reaching Saint Francis Hospital entails a similar route, with the added possibility of encountering congestion on I-91.

The morning commute, typically starting around 7:00 AM and extending until 9:00 AM, and the afternoon rush, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, present the most significant challenges. These periods can drastically increase travel times, adding stress and anxiety for patients already grappling with a serious illness. It's crucial for residents to factor these delays into their schedules, especially when considering the need for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public **transportation** offers an alternative, though its practicality for lung cancer patients is limited. CTtransit, the state's bus service, operates routes within the area, but direct routes to Hartford hospitals are scarce. Route 904 provides service from Vernon Rockville to downtown Hartford, where transfers to other routes would be necessary to reach the hospitals.

The frequency of these buses can vary, and the journey, including transfers, can take upwards of an hour and a half, making it a less desirable option for individuals with compromised health. The presence of ADA-accessible buses is a positive factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the overall time commitment and potential for delays render public transit a less viable solution for many.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative. Availability in Vernon Rockville is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs. Patients relying on ride-sharing must factor in these fluctuating fares when budgeting for their **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services, such as AMR or MedTrans, are specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. While these services are available, they often come at a premium price, and pre-booking is essential.

The availability of these services is a significant advantage, particularly for patients who are unable to drive or require assistance during their travels. However, the cost and the need for advance planning can pose challenges for some individuals.

Considering all these factors, the Lung Cancer Score for Vernon Rockville (ZIP Code 06066) reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**. While the presence of multiple **transportation** options provides some flexibility, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the limitations of public transit create challenges.

The score is further impacted by the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The lack of direct and efficient public transit routes to major hospitals also contributes to the overall assessment.

The score also considers the availability of support services in the area. Local cancer support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and home healthcare providers can play a crucial role in supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. The presence of these resources can mitigate some of the challenges related to **transportation** and **healthcare access**.

For individuals **moving to Vernon Rockville**, it is imperative to carefully consider the implications of the **transportation** landscape. Assessing personal mobility, financial resources, and the availability of support networks is crucial.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measure. It can fluctuate based on factors such as road construction, changes in public transit schedules, or the emergence of new **transportation** services. Residents should stay informed about these developments and proactively plan their travel arrangements.

In conclusion, while Vernon Rockville offers a range of **transportation** choices, the challenges associated with reaching essential lung cancer treatment centers necessitate careful planning and consideration. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the need for proactive strategies to ensure timely and reliable **healthcare access**. The availability of specialized medical transport services and the presence of local support networks are crucial factors in mitigating the difficulties of navigating the healthcare system.