06016, Broad Brook, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06016, Broad Brook, Connecticut is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.88 percent of residents in 06016 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rockville General Hospital with a distance of 5.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Broad Brook (06016)

This analysis assesses the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Broad Brook, Connecticut (ZIP code 06016), focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall health. We will examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for this community. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Broad Brook, as healthcare access is a fundamental determinant of well-being.

Broad Brook, a charming village within the town of East Windsor, benefits from its proximity to larger towns and cities, yet its rural setting presents unique challenges to healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" considers the ease with which residents can reach various medical facilities, from primary care physicians to specialized hospitals. The score reflects the efficiency, affordability, and convenience of available transportation modes.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many Broad Brook residents. The major thoroughfares impacting healthcare access include Interstate 91 (I-91), Route 5, and Route 140. Travel times to medical facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. For instance, a trip to a primary care physician in East Windsor might take 5-10 minutes via Route 5, while a visit to a specialist in Hartford could extend to 20-30 minutes during peak hours on I-91. Route 140 provides another route, offering alternative access to some facilities, though it can be subject to traffic congestion during school drop-off and pick-up times.

The ease of parking is another consideration. While many medical facilities offer ample parking, downtown Hartford locations may present challenges, potentially adding time and stress to appointments. The condition of the roads and the frequency of traffic accidents also contribute to the overall transportation experience. Regular road maintenance and effective traffic management are essential to ensuring safe and timely access to healthcare.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its availability is limited in this area. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) provides bus service through the CTtransit system. Several routes, while not directly serving Broad Brook, offer connections to major healthcare hubs. For example, a resident might take a local bus to a transfer point in Windsor or Enfield, and then connect to a CTtransit route that reaches Hartford hospitals.

The frequency of these routes is a critical factor. Limited service, especially on weekends and evenings, can significantly impact access to urgent care or emergency services. Furthermore, the presence of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. The CTtransit system strives to maintain a fleet of vehicles that meet accessibility standards, but the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the routes must be carefully evaluated.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially eliminating the need to rely on public transit schedules or family members. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further exacerbate the financial burden.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Broad Brook is generally good, but the response times may vary depending on the time of day and the availability of drivers in the area. Residents should factor in potential wait times when scheduling appointments.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including established brands such as American Medical Response (AMR) and smaller, local companies.

The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Some services may require pre-authorization or have limited coverage. The reliability and responsiveness of these services are paramount, as delays or cancellations can have serious consequences. Broad Brook residents should investigate the availability of medical transport options and understand the associated costs and insurance coverage.

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the proximity of emergency medical services. The Broad Brook Volunteer Fire Department provides emergency response, and the nearest hospitals with emergency rooms are located in Hartford and surrounding towns. The time it takes for an ambulance to reach a resident in need is a critical factor in determining the quality of care.

Healthcare access is inextricably linked to the health and well-being of a community. The "Overall Health Score" for Broad Brook reflects the complexities of transportation and its impact on the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The score considers the availability, affordability, and convenience of various transportation modes, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Broad Brook, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential. Assessing the accessibility of healthcare facilities is a crucial step in making an informed decision. Prospective residents should research the location of medical providers, evaluate the transportation options available, and consider the potential costs and challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for Broad Brook is a dynamic measure, influenced by factors such as road infrastructure, public transit improvements, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Continuous efforts to improve transportation options and enhance healthcare access are essential to ensuring the health and well-being of this community. The score, therefore, is not a static number but a reflection of the ongoing efforts to create a healthier and more accessible environment for all residents.