06336, Gilman, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06336, Gilman, Connecticut is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.37 percent of residents in 06336 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is William W Backus Hospital with a distance of 5.82 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 06336

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of lung cancer, is a critical factor in treatment and survival. In ZIP Code 06336, encompassing the vibrant community of Gilman, Connecticut, this journey is shaped by a confluence of transportation options, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities. This write-up assesses the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare within 06336, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, ultimately providing a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital care.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in and out of Gilman are Interstate 95 (I-95) and Route 85. I-95, a major coastal highway, offers swift access to larger medical centers, but its notorious traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Route 85, a more local thoroughfare, provides a less direct but often less congested alternative, particularly for destinations within the immediate vicinity. The secondary roads, such as Route 32 and Route 11, offer further options, though they are often slower and less direct.

For individuals requiring specialized lung cancer care, the drive to major hospitals becomes paramount. The closest major hospital, Backus Hospital in Norwich, is generally accessible within a 15-25 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions on Route 82 and Route 2. This proximity provides a relatively favorable starting point for healthcare access. However, for more specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to larger facilities like Yale New Haven Hospital, approximately a 1-hour to 1.5-hour drive via I-95, depending on traffic flow. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning and consideration for those with mobility limitations or those experiencing treatment-related side effects.

Public transportation in 06336 presents a mixed bag of accessibility. The Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) provides bus services, offering a crucial link for those without personal vehicles. Route 901 and Route 902 are the most relevant routes for Gilman residents, connecting to Norwich and other surrounding towns. These routes, while offering a cost-effective alternative, are limited in frequency, especially during evenings and weekends. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are available on SEAT buses, complying with ADA standards. However, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can present challenges for those requiring frequent appointments or facing unpredictable health needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation solution, particularly for those who may not be able to drive or lack access to public transit. Availability in 06336 is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5-15 minutes. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to and from medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing may be limited during peak hours or in inclement weather, potentially creating transportation bottlenecks.

Medical transport services provide a specialized solution for individuals with significant mobility limitations or those requiring medical supervision during transport. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services operate within the region, offering both basic and advanced life support transport. These services are typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs, such as those requiring stretcher transport or constant monitoring. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and prior authorization from insurance companies is often required.

For individuals considering moving to Gilman, the accessibility of healthcare should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. The relatively short drive to Backus Hospital provides a reasonable level of access to basic medical services. However, the longer travel times to specialized facilities like Yale New Haven Hospital require careful consideration, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 06336 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Proximity to Backus Hospital provides a favorable score, while longer drives to specialized centers lower the score.
* **Public Transit:** The availability of SEAT bus services offers a valuable option, but limited frequency and route coverage reduce the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services provide flexibility, but cost and potential availability limitations impact the score.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability of medical transport services adds to the score, but the cost and eligibility requirements are considered.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for 06336 is 6.5 out of 10. This score indicates that while healthcare access is generally manageable, it is not without its challenges. Residents must carefully weigh the available transportation options and their individual needs when navigating their healthcare journey. For those battling lung cancer, the ability to access timely and appropriate care is crucial, and understanding the transportation landscape within 06336 is a vital first step in ensuring optimal outcomes. The ability to navigate the transportation options and the healthcare access in Gilman is a major consideration for moving to the area.