06019, Canton, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06019, Canton, Connecticut is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.23 percent of residents in 06019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is John Dempsey Hospital with a distance of 9.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06019 (Canton, CT)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Canton, Connecticut (ZIP code 06019) necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical component of this assessment is the ease with which residents can *transport* themselves to appointments, procedures, and urgent care facilities. This analysis considers the availability and efficiency of various *transportation* options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services. It also examines the proximity of healthcare providers and the potential challenges faced by individuals with limited mobility or other special needs. This is especially important for those *moving to Canton*, considering their healthcare needs.

Canton’s geographical location, nestled in the Farmington River Valley, presents both advantages and disadvantages in terms of healthcare *access*. The town benefits from its proximity to larger urban centers like Hartford, offering a wider array of specialized medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on key roadways can impact the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for *transportation* in and out of Canton are Route 44, running east-west, and Route 179, running north-south. These roads are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities. The drive time to the nearest major hospital, John Dempsey Hospital at UConn Health in Farmington, is approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. This route typically involves traveling east on Route 44 and then south on Route 6. The journey can be extended during peak hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes.

Other significant medical facilities, such as Hartford Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, are located in Hartford, approximately a 30-45 minute drive via Route 44 East and Interstate 84. This drive time can vary significantly based on traffic conditions, especially during rush hour. The ability to quickly reach these facilities is crucial for emergency situations and specialized care.

Smaller, local clinics and urgent care centers, such as the AFC Urgent Care in Avon (a neighboring town), are generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive via Route 44. This provides more immediate options for non-life-threatening medical needs. Residents *moving to Canton* should factor in these drive times when assessing their healthcare needs.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public *transportation* options in Canton are limited, posing a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The Connecticut Department of *Transportation* (CTDOT) provides bus service in the area, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the main thoroughfares. The 903 bus route, for example, connects Canton with Hartford, but the service frequency is limited, with buses running approximately every hour during peak times and even less frequently during off-peak hours and weekends.

The availability of public transit is a significant factor in the overall health score, particularly for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a personal vehicle. The lack of frequent and accessible public *transportation* can create significant barriers to healthcare *access*, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is crucial for public transit. CTDOT buses are generally equipped with features such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating areas for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service may still pose challenges for those requiring accessible *transportation*.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Canton, offering an alternative *transportation* option to healthcare facilities. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical *transportation* providers, are available for individuals requiring assistance with mobility. These services are typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs or those who cannot safely *transport* themselves. The cost of these services can be substantial and may require insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Provider Proximity and Accessibility:**

The availability of healthcare providers within Canton itself is a key determinant of the overall health score. Canton boasts a number of primary care physicians, dentists, and other specialists. The proximity of these providers reduces the need for lengthy commutes and enhances *healthcare access* for residents.

However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, or neurology, is more limited within Canton. Residents may need to travel to larger hospitals or medical centers in surrounding towns or cities to access these specialized services. This underscores the importance of considering *transportation* options and drive times when evaluating the overall health score.

**Challenges and Considerations:**

Several factors can impact the overall health score for residents of Canton. The aging population, for instance, may have increased healthcare needs and may be more reliant on public *transportation* or medical *transportation* services. The availability of affordable housing and the economic status of residents can also influence their ability to access healthcare.

The physical environment of Canton, with its hilly terrain and potential for inclement weather, can also pose challenges for *transportation*. Snowstorms or icy conditions can make driving hazardous and disrupt public transit schedules, further limiting *healthcare access*.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of Canton (ZIP code 06019) reflects a mixed picture of *healthcare access*. While the town benefits from its proximity to major medical centers and the availability of some local healthcare providers, the limited public *transportation* options and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges. Residents *moving to Canton* should carefully consider the *transportation* infrastructure and the potential impact on their ability to access healthcare services. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* provides additional options, but these may be subject to availability and cost considerations. Improving public *transportation* and promoting the availability of healthcare services within Canton itself would significantly enhance the overall health score and ensure equitable *healthcare access* for all residents.