06042, Manchester, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06042, Manchester, Connecticut is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.52 percent of residents in 06042 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Manchester Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.06 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06042 (Manchester, CT)

Assessing the overall health score for healthcare access in Manchester, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06042) requires a deep dive into transportation options, considering their impact on residents’ ability to reach medical facilities. This analysis focuses on drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Manchester.

Manchester’s healthcare landscape is primarily shaped by its proximity to Hartford and surrounding towns. This creates a complex network of transportation needs. The town’s location in the Connecticut River Valley, while beautiful, presents challenges. The primary arteries for travel are Interstate 84 (I-84) and the more local Route 44. These highways are crucial for accessing hospitals, clinics, and specialists.

Drive times are a critical factor. From central Manchester, reaching major hospitals like Hartford Hospital or Saint Francis Hospital in Hartford typically takes 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, peak hours, especially during weekday commutes, can significantly extend this. The morning and evening rush, compounded by accidents or construction on I-84, can easily double travel times. This delay can be particularly detrimental during medical emergencies or for scheduled appointments.

The local roads, including Tolland Turnpike, Center Street, and Broad Street, are also vital. They provide access to local medical offices, urgent care facilities, and pharmacies within Manchester. These routes, while shorter in distance, are often congested, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. Understanding these traffic patterns is crucial for anyone evaluating healthcare access.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its impact on healthcare access is limited. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus routes that serve Manchester. The primary route is the 921, which connects Manchester to Hartford. While this route provides a link to larger healthcare facilities, it may not be ideal for all patients.

The 921 bus route operates with varying frequency, with reduced service on weekends and evenings. This can pose a challenge for those needing to access medical care outside of typical business hours. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a positive aspect, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall coverage and frequency of the bus service may not adequately meet the needs of all residents, particularly those living in more remote areas of Manchester.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation avenue. These services are readily available in Manchester and provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. They offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, especially for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments or those on a fixed income.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local private providers offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services are valuable, they can require advance booking and may have associated costs that are not always covered by insurance.

The overall health score in 06042 is a complex equation. While Manchester benefits from its proximity to Hartford's healthcare infrastructure, transportation challenges exist. The reliance on highways like I-84 and the potential for traffic delays can impact access. The limited scope of public transportation and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services further complicate the picture.

Factors such as the patient’s individual mobility, financial resources, and the specific healthcare needs influence the overall health score. For those with reliable transportation, access to care is generally good. However, for those reliant on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport, the challenges are more significant. The availability of local medical facilities, including urgent care centers and primary care physicians within Manchester, helps to mitigate some of these transportation issues.

When moving to Manchester, prospective residents must carefully consider their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Assessing the availability of convenient and affordable transportation options is crucial. Researching the proximity of healthcare providers, understanding the public transit routes, and evaluating the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services are essential steps.

The overall health score in 06042 is not static. It evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, public transit service, and the availability of healthcare providers. Continued investment in public transportation, improved traffic management on I-84, and the expansion of affordable transportation options would significantly enhance the overall health score for residents of Manchester. These improvements would ensure that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, have equitable access to the healthcare they need.