06424, East Hampton, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06424, East Hampton, Connecticut is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.74 percent of residents in 06424 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Middlesex Hospital with a distance of 7.42 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06424 (East Hampton, CT)**

The air hangs heavy with the scent of salt and pine in East Hampton, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06424), a town that whispers of quiet living and the gentle rhythm of the Salmon River. But beneath this idyllic veneer lies a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, particularly those with health concerns: access to healthcare, and specifically, the ease of transportation to specialized medical facilities for conditions like lung cancer. This write-up provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment, focusing on the crucial element of transportation.

East Hampton's location, nestled within Middlesex County, dictates the primary transportation arteries. The town is not directly served by major interstates, which shapes the landscape of healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare is Route 66, a vital link connecting East Hampton to surrounding towns and, crucially, to hospitals and cancer centers. Route 66 is the lifeblood for many residents, a roadway that offers a direct, albeit often congested, path to essential medical services.

The drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities requires careful consideration. Hartford Hospital's Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center, a leading regional facility, presents a significant commute. The journey typically involves heading west on Route 66, merging onto Route 2, and then navigating the city streets. Depending on traffic, this drive can consume anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, a considerable time commitment, particularly for frequent appointments or urgent situations.

Another option is Middlesex Health Cancer Center in Middletown. This facility, closer to East Hampton, offers a shorter drive. The route involves traveling west on Route 66, then north on Route 196, before turning onto Saybrook Road. The drive time is considerably less, usually around 20 to 30 minutes, making it a more accessible option for many residents. This reduced travel time is a significant advantage, especially for those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, where frequent visits are the norm.

Public transportation options in East Hampton are limited, presenting a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) provides bus service, but routes within the town and to surrounding areas are infrequent. The primary bus route serving East Hampton is the 520, which connects to Middletown. This route offers limited service, and its schedules are not ideally suited for medical appointments, which often require precise timing. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available on CTDOT buses, adhering to ADA regulations. However, the infrequency of service and the need for transfers can make public transit a cumbersome option for those needing regular cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in East Hampton, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments. Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedRide, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services offer door-to-door transportation and are designed to cater to the specific needs of patients with mobility limitations or other health concerns. While these services can be invaluable, they often come with a higher price tag than ride-sharing or public transit.

The availability of transportation is a critical factor in healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer patients. The ability to get to and from appointments, receive treatment, and attend follow-up care is crucial for survival and quality of life. The Lung Cancer Score for East Hampton, considering the transportation options, is moderate. While the proximity to Middletown's cancer center offers a shorter commute, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services pose challenges.

For individuals considering moving to East Hampton, especially those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. This includes evaluating the drive times to various cancer centers, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation. The choice of location should be carefully weighed against the accessibility of healthcare services, ensuring that the benefits of moving to a tranquil town are not overshadowed by the logistical challenges of accessing vital medical care.

The decision to relocate is a complex one, and the availability of convenient and reliable transportation to healthcare facilities is a critical factor, especially for those facing the challenges of lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score, which considers the transportation landscape, provides a valuable framework for assessing the suitability of East Hampton (ZIP Code 06424) as a place to live, considering the vital importance of healthcare access. The scenic beauty of East Hampton is undeniable, but the practicality of navigating the transportation network to reach essential medical services is paramount.