06091, West Hartland, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06091, West Hartland, Connecticut is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.02 percent of residents in 06091 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital & Medical Center with a distance of 22.21 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in West Hartland, CT (ZIP Code 06091)

The crisp air of West Hartland, Connecticut, often whispers promises of tranquility and a slower pace of life. Yet, for those considering a move to this picturesque corner of New England, or for current residents, a critical factor intertwines with the idyllic scenery: **healthcare access**. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" if you will, focuses on the **transportation** landscape and its impact on timely medical care, specifically for individuals facing the complexities of lung cancer treatment. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, painting a picture of the realities of **healthcare access** in this rural area.

The primary concern is the promptness of medical attention. Early detection and consistent treatment are paramount in the fight against lung cancer. Delays in reaching healthcare facilities can significantly impact patient outcomes. Therefore, this assessment prioritizes the ease and speed with which residents of 06091 can access specialized medical services, particularly those related to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

West Hartland, with its rolling hills and wooded landscapes, presents a unique challenge. The nearest major medical centers are located in Hartford and Springfield, necessitating **transportation** strategies that are both reliable and efficient. The score will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each mode of travel, providing a realistic view for anyone contemplating a move or currently living in the area.

**Driving Directions: The Asphalt Arteries**

For most residents, the automobile is the primary mode of **transportation**. The journey to healthcare often begins on local roads, eventually merging onto major highways. From West Hartland, the most direct route to Hartford typically involves taking Route 20 west, then connecting to Route 44 east, which eventually leads to Interstate 84. This route, while scenic, can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Expect a drive time of approximately one hour to the major hospitals in Hartford, such as Hartford Hospital or Saint Francis Hospital.

Alternatively, residents might choose to travel north on Route 179, then merge onto Route 10, and finally connect to Interstate 91 south, heading towards Hartford. This route might be slightly longer in terms of mileage, but it can sometimes offer a less congested experience, especially during morning and evening commutes.

The drive to Springfield, Massachusetts, is generally shorter, taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This route often involves traveling north on Route 20, and then connecting to Interstate 91 north. Springfield offers access to Baystate Medical Center, another major healthcare provider.

These drive times are estimates and can fluctuate based on traffic conditions, weather, and the specific destination within the medical complex. The Lung Cancer Score considers these variables, recognizing that every minute counts when dealing with a serious illness.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in West Hartland are extremely limited. The area lacks a robust public transit system, which is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Bus services are scarce, and routes are infrequent, making them impractical for regular medical appointments.

The Connecticut Department of **Transportation** (CTDOT) operates some bus routes that may offer limited access to larger towns and cities, but these routes are not designed to serve the specific needs of medical patients. The lack of accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, is a major concern. The absence of convenient public transit options significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as it increases the reliance on personal vehicles or other more expensive alternatives.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on any available public transit are crucial. However, given the limited public transit options, the availability of ADA-compliant features is not a significant factor in this assessment.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for frequent medical appointments. The Lung Cancer Score acknowledges the potential of ride-sharing, but recognizes its limitations in this rural setting.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments, are available. These services, often provided by specialized companies, offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which is a consideration in the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of medical **transportation** services, while a positive factor, is weighed against the cost and potential for scheduling delays. The score aims to provide a balanced perspective on the viability of this option.

**Specific Brands and Services:**

While specific medical **transportation** brands vary, some companies operating in the region include:

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Provides ambulance and non-emergency medical transport services.
* **Careline Medical Transport:** Offers non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair and stretcher services.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Many local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transport as well.

These services can be essential for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of **transportation**.

**The Lung Cancer Score and Moving to West Hartland**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 06091 reflects the challenges and considerations related to **healthcare access**. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the limited **transportation** options and distance to major medical centers pose potential difficulties for individuals with lung cancer or other serious health conditions.

For those considering **moving to West Hartland**, this analysis underscores the importance of carefully evaluating their individual healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities. A personal vehicle is almost essential, and a plan for accessing medical appointments, including potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services, is crucial.

The score is not meant to discourage anyone from **moving to West Hartland**, but rather to provide a realistic understanding of the healthcare landscape. It is essential to weigh the benefits of the rural lifestyle against the practical challenges of accessing timely medical care. The score serves as a tool for informed decision-making, empowering individuals to make choices that best suit their health needs.