06280, Windham, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06280, Windham, Connecticut is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.72 percent of residents in 06280 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Windham Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.98 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Windham, CT (ZIP Code 06280)

The air, a precious commodity, is often the first casualty of lung cancer. For residents of Windham, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06280), the journey to healthcare, particularly for diagnosis and treatment of this insidious disease, is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This "Lung Cancer Score" considers the complexities of **transportation** within and around this community, providing insights into **healthcare access** and what potential residents might consider when **moving to Windham**.

The availability of timely and efficient **transportation** significantly impacts the prognosis of lung cancer patients. Early detection and treatment are paramount, and any delay in reaching medical professionals can have dire consequences. This score assesses the various modes of travel available, considering their accessibility, reliability, and the overall burden they place on individuals already facing a challenging health battle.

Driving remains a primary mode of **transportation** for many in Windham. The main artery connecting the area to larger medical centers is Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare. Drive times to the nearest hospitals, like Windham Hospital (approximately 5 minutes) and Backus Hospital in Norwich (roughly 30 minutes), are generally manageable, offering relatively quick **healthcare access** for routine appointments. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend these travel times, potentially delaying crucial appointments or treatments.

For more specialized care, patients may need to travel further afield. The drive to Yale New Haven Hospital, a renowned cancer center, can take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions on I-395 and I-95. Similarly, the drive to Hartford Hospital, another major medical facility, involves navigating Route 6 and I-84, a journey that can easily exceed an hour. These longer drives necessitate careful planning, considering the patient's physical condition and the availability of support systems.

Public **transportation** options in Windham, while present, are limited. The Connecticut Department of **Transportation** (CTDOT) operates bus routes that serve the area, including the 912 and 913. However, these routes primarily operate within the town and offer limited connectivity to hospitals outside of Windham. The frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, making it challenging for patients needing regular appointments or treatments.

Accessibility is another concern. While CTDOT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, ensuring wheelchair access and other accommodations, the overall infrastructure may present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The lack of readily available information regarding the specific ADA features of each bus route adds to the complexity for those relying on public **transportation**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving and public **transportation**. Their availability in Windham is generally reliable, providing a convenient option for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for patients with limited financial resources. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, cannot always be guaranteed.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by LifeStar or American Medical Response, provide specialized **transportation** for patients needing assistance. These services offer trained medical personnel and specialized vehicles, catering to the unique needs of patients with medical conditions. However, these services are often reserved for emergencies or patients requiring a higher level of care, and their cost can be substantial.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges extends beyond mere inconvenience. For lung cancer patients, the stress and fatigue associated with long commutes, navigating complex public **transportation** systems, or managing the financial burden of ride-sharing can exacerbate their symptoms and negatively affect their quality of life. Delays in accessing care can also lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment initiation, and ultimately, a less favorable prognosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Windham, CT (06280) is therefore a nuanced assessment. While the presence of a local hospital provides relatively good **healthcare access** for routine care, the reliance on driving and the limited public **transportation** options for specialized care and treatment present significant challenges. The cost and reliability of ride-sharing services and the availability of medical **transportation** also need to be considered.

For those considering **moving to Windham**, the proximity to hospitals and the availability of various **transportation** options should be carefully weighed. Prospective residents with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses should prioritize locations with easy access to specialized medical care, considering the potential need for frequent appointments and treatments.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Windham highlights the critical link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. It underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve public **transportation** infrastructure, expand the availability of affordable ride-sharing options, and ensure that all residents, regardless of their physical condition or financial circumstances, can access the timely and effective care they need. This is especially crucial for a community where the air, and the ability to breathe freely, is a fundamental right.