06901, Stamford, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06901, Stamford, Connecticut is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.83 percent of residents in 06901 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stamford Hospital with a distance of 0.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stamford, CT (ZIP Code 06901)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, particularly when access to timely and specialized healthcare is compromised. For residents of Stamford, Connecticut (ZIP code 06901), understanding the ease of **transportation** to crucial medical facilities is paramount. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the practicalities of reaching healthcare providers specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, focusing on the **healthcare access** challenges and opportunities presented by this vibrant, yet complex, urban environment. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Stamford**, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

The score isn't a numerical grade but a comprehensive overview of the available **transportation** options and their impact on timely healthcare access. We'll examine drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing services, painting a detailed picture of what it means to navigate the healthcare landscape in 06901.

**Driving: The Asphalt Arteries of Healthcare Access**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of **transportation**. In Stamford, the major arteries are the I-95, the Merritt Parkway (Route 15), and the local roads that weave through the city. The I-95, while efficient for longer distances, is notorious for its congestion, especially during peak hours. A drive from the heart of 06901 to Stamford Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, could take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.

The Merritt Parkway, a scenic route, offers a potentially quicker journey to facilities located further north, but its winding nature and limited access points can be a drawback in emergencies. Local roads, such as High Ridge Road, Long Ridge Road, and Summer Street, provide access to various medical offices and specialists. However, these roads are often congested with local traffic, adding to travel times. Parking availability at medical facilities is another factor, with potential delays in finding a space.

For those needing specialized care, such as radiation therapy or advanced diagnostics, journeys to hospitals in surrounding areas, like Norwalk Hospital (approximately 20-45 minutes via I-95) or Yale New Haven Hospital (approximately 1 hour via I-95 and Route 15), become essential. These longer drives, especially when coupled with traffic delays, can significantly impact the timely delivery of care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Stamford's public **transportation** system, primarily operated by the Connecticut Department of **Transportation** (CTDOT), offers an alternative to driving. The Metro-North Railroad provides access to New York City and other areas, but its relevance to local healthcare access is limited. Local bus routes, operated by CT Transit, are more directly relevant.

Several bus routes serve the 06901 area, including the 301, 321, and 324, connecting various parts of the city. These routes provide access to Stamford Hospital and some medical offices. However, the frequency of these buses, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a significant barrier. The wait times and the need for transfers can add considerable time to the journey, potentially impacting the urgency of healthcare needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. All CT Transit buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the availability of accessible bus stops and the ease of navigating the bus system with mobility aids can vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of **transportation** options. These services provide on-demand access to medical facilities, bypassing the complexities of public transit or the need to drive. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedStar and others, specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or those who are unable to drive themselves. They offer door-to-door service and can be a valuable resource for individuals with lung cancer who may have mobility limitations. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 06901 highlights a mixed bag of **transportation** options. While driving offers the most direct route, traffic congestion, parking challenges, and the distance to specialized care centers can pose significant obstacles. Public transit provides an alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency, travel time, and accessibility can impact healthcare access. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer valuable support, but their cost and availability must be considered.

For residents of 06901, the "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of careful planning. Individuals with lung cancer or at risk of developing it should consider their **transportation** needs when choosing a healthcare provider or when **moving to Stamford**. Factors such as proximity to medical facilities, the availability of convenient **transportation** options, and the ability to access specialized care centers should be prioritized.

This assessment underscores the complex relationship between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While Stamford offers a range of options, the effectiveness of these options in ensuring timely and accessible care for individuals with lung cancer depends on a careful evaluation of individual needs, financial resources, and the specific requirements of their medical care. The journey to healthcare in 06901 requires navigating a network of roads, routes, and services, each with its own advantages and limitations.