06073, South Glastonbury, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06073, South Glastonbury, Connecticut is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.19 percent of residents in 06073 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hartford Hospital with a distance of 8.32 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in South Glastonbury (ZIP Code 06073)**

The diagnosis of lung cancer, a life-altering event, demands immediate and comprehensive care. For residents of South Glastonbury, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06073), the accessibility of that care hinges significantly on transportation options. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, explores the landscape of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial elements for anyone facing this challenging disease. This is especially relevant for those considering moving to South Glastonbury, as it directly impacts the quality of life and the ability to receive timely treatment.

The primary healthcare hubs serving South Glastonbury are located in Hartford and surrounding areas, necessitating travel. The primary artery for vehicular movement is Route 2, a major highway connecting the town to Hartford. Driving to Hartford Hospital, a prominent cancer treatment center, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive involves navigating Route 2 East and exiting onto various city streets, including Jefferson Street, where the hospital is located.

Alternatively, the drive to Saint Francis Hospital, another significant healthcare provider in Hartford, also requires using Route 2 East, but with a slightly longer travel time, usually around 30-40 minutes. This route involves exiting onto I-84 West and then navigating city streets to reach the hospital's location. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend these drive times, impacting the timeliness of appointments and treatments.

Beyond Hartford, other hospitals offering specialized cancer care are within reasonable driving distance. Yale New Haven Hospital, a nationally recognized cancer center, is approximately a 1-hour to 1-hour and 15-minute drive, primarily via Route 2 East and I-91 South. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, considering potential delays and the patient's physical condition.

Public transportation options in South Glastonbury are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus routes in the area, but service frequency and coverage are not extensive. The primary bus route serving South Glastonbury is Route 913, which connects to downtown Hartford. This route, however, has limited service, typically running hourly during weekdays and with reduced service on weekends.

The bus route does not directly serve the major hospitals in Hartford, necessitating transfers and potentially lengthy travel times. This can be particularly difficult for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, or other side effects. ADA-accessible buses are available on Route 913, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments, but the limited service frequency and potential for extended travel times remain significant drawbacks.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially mitigating the challenges of limited public transit and the need for a personal vehicle. However, the availability of ride-sharing services in South Glastonbury can vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs. The reliability of these services is also a factor, as delays or cancellations can disrupt appointments and treatments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a valuable resource. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and Life Star provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often covered by insurance, providing a more affordable and reliable option for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. However, booking these services requires advance planning, and availability may be limited, especially during peak times.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for South Glastonbury reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers relatively easy access to major highways, providing direct routes to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles is substantial. The limited public transportation options and the potential for traffic delays can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those experiencing treatment-related side effects.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides alternative options, but their reliability, cost, and availability must be carefully considered. For individuals considering moving to South Glastonbury, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of assessing their transportation needs and planning for potential challenges in accessing healthcare.

The overall score for South Glastonbury is moderate. While the proximity to major highways and healthcare facilities is a positive factor, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation require careful consideration. Individuals with lung cancer or those at high risk should factor in these transportation considerations when evaluating their healthcare access and quality of life in South Glastonbury. The ability to navigate these transportation complexities directly impacts the ability to receive timely and effective care, making it a critical component of the overall healthcare experience.