06120, Hartford, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06120, Hartford, Connecticut is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.82 percent of residents in 06120 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital & Medical Center with a distance of 1.53 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 06120

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change, and in the heart of Hartford, Connecticut, life unfolds in a tapestry woven with resilience and the ever-present need for connection. For those residing in ZIP Code 06120, a critical aspect of daily existence is the ability to access healthcare, particularly for serious conditions like lung cancer. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," aims to illuminate the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. It's a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Hartford or seeking optimal healthcare solutions.

Understanding the challenges and opportunities surrounding transportation is paramount. Lung cancer treatment often demands frequent appointments, from initial diagnosis and staging to chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up care. The efficiency and reliability of transportation directly impact a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans, manage side effects, and maintain a sense of normalcy amidst the storm of illness. Therefore, a thorough examination of transportation options becomes an integral part of assessing healthcare access.

The primary healthcare facilities serving 06120 include Hartford Hospital, located just outside the zip code, and Saint Francis Hospital, a bit further north. Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic, particularly during peak hours. Navigating the area involves several key roadways. From 06120, accessing Hartford Hospital typically involves a short drive via **I-84 East** or **I-91 South**, depending on the specific origin point within the zip code. The distance is manageable, often resulting in a drive time of 10-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Reaching Saint Francis Hospital often requires a slightly longer journey. Residents might utilize **Albany Avenue**, a major thoroughfare, or opt for **I-84 East** to **I-91 North**. Drive times can vary significantly, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, again contingent on traffic volume. The **Putnam Bridge** and the **Bulkeley Bridge** are also critical arteries for crossing the Connecticut River, further influencing travel times depending on the starting location.

Public transportation offers an alternative, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those seeking to avoid the stress of driving. CTtransit, the primary public transit provider in the Hartford area, operates several bus routes that serve 06120 and connect to both Hartford Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital. The **Route 901**, a key route, provides frequent service along Albany Avenue, offering access to Saint Francis Hospital. **Route 91** and **Route 92** also offer connections, though potentially requiring transfers.

The accessibility of public transit is a crucial factor, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. CTtransit is mandated to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and that accessible seating is available. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Moreover, the potential for longer travel times due to transfers and traffic delays should be considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another avenue for transportation. These services provide on-demand access to transportation, eliminating the need for scheduling in advance. The availability of ride-sharing services in 06120 is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Furthermore, individuals with limited financial resources or those who rely on government assistance may find ride-sharing services cost-prohibitive.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients with medical needs provide a further layer of support. These services cater to individuals who may require assistance with mobility, such as those using wheelchairs or walkers, or those who need medical supervision during transport. Several companies operate in the Hartford area, including First Transit and AMR. These services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, but they offer specialized care and support.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these transportation factors in its assessment of healthcare access. Drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options are all weighed to provide a comprehensive picture. The score is not a single number but a nuanced evaluation that reflects the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape. It is an attempt to highlight the challenges and opportunities that residents of 06120 face in accessing vital medical care.

For individuals contemplating moving to Hartford or seeking healthcare solutions, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for decision-making. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical component of healthcare access. Understanding the intricacies of drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services empowers individuals to make informed choices that align with their needs and circumstances.

The future of transportation in Hartford holds the potential for further improvements. Increased investment in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the development of innovative medical transport solutions could significantly enhance healthcare access for residents of 06120 and beyond. As the city continues to evolve, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the vital link between transportation and health, urging us to prioritize the needs of those seeking care and striving to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all.