06255, North Grosvenordale, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06255, North Grosvenordale, Connecticut is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.23 percent of residents in 06255 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Day Kimball Hospital with a distance of 5.65 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in North Grosvenordale (ZIP Code 06255)

The air hangs heavy with the weight of concern, a palpable anxiety that accompanies a potential lung cancer diagnosis. For residents of North Grosvenordale, Connecticut (ZIP code 06255), the journey to healthcare, a critical component of survival and well-being, is inextricably linked to the availability and efficiency of transportation. This write-up, a Lung Cancer Score analysis, explores the realities of healthcare access within this community, focusing on the nuances of getting to and from vital medical appointments. It is designed to inform those considering moving to North Grosvenordale, or those already residing here, about the practical challenges and opportunities related to **transportation** and **healthcare access**.

The primary determinant of the Lung Cancer Score is the ease with which patients can access specialized medical care, specifically oncological services, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. Geographic isolation, a common challenge in rural areas, significantly impacts this score. The availability of public **transportation**, the practicality of driving, and the presence of alternative options like ride-sharing and medical transport services all play crucial roles in shaping a patient’s experience.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for residents of North Grosvenordale. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are Interstate 395 (I-395) and Route 197. The drive to Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam, a local healthcare provider, is relatively straightforward, typically taking around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. However, for specialized oncology care, patients often need to travel further. The drive to The Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven, a nationally recognized cancer center, can take upwards of an hour and a half, primarily via I-395 South and the Connecticut Turnpike (I-95). This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other debilitating side effects. Route 197, while offering a more scenic route, is a slower option and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs.

Public **transportation** options in North Grosvenordale are limited. The Northeast Transportation Company (NETC) provides bus services in the area. Route 904, for example, offers service to Putnam and Danielson, potentially connecting patients to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be infrequent, and the schedules may not align with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the accessibility of these buses for individuals with mobility limitations is a critical factor. While NETC buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, the availability of these features does not necessarily guarantee a seamless journey. The distance from bus stops to medical facilities, the terrain, and the potential for inclement weather can create additional barriers. The lack of evening and weekend service further restricts access, particularly for those requiring after-hours care or follow-up appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a more flexible **transportation** alternative. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for patients, particularly those with limited financial resources. The distance to major cancer centers and the frequency of appointments can quickly accumulate substantial expenses.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, which can be invaluable for patients with mobility issues or those requiring assistance with medical equipment. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be costly, potentially limiting their accessibility for some patients.

The Lung Cancer Score for North Grosvenordale reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by the available **transportation** options. The score considers the distance to specialized cancer centers, the reliability of public **transportation**, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation**, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with disabilities.

For those considering moving to North Grosvenordale, understanding the implications of **healthcare access** is crucial. While the community offers a peaceful, rural setting, the distance to specialized medical care is a significant factor. Patients and their families should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and explore all available options, including carpooling, volunteer driver programs, and financial assistance programs to mitigate the challenges.

The **healthcare access** landscape in North Grosvenordale requires careful navigation. The availability of timely and reliable **transportation** is paramount for lung cancer patients. While the community benefits from proximity to a local hospital, the need for specialized oncology care necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The limited public **transportation**, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation** services all contribute to the complexity of this challenge. Careful planning, exploring all available resources, and advocating for improved **transportation** options are essential to ensure that residents of North Grosvenordale have equitable access to the life-saving care they need. The Lung Cancer Score, a dynamic assessment, should be revisited regularly, as improvements in **transportation** infrastructure and service offerings can significantly impact the overall healthcare experience for residents of this community.