06058, Norfolk, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06058, Norfolk, Connecticut is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.03 percent of residents in 06058 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Charlotte Hungerford Hospital with a distance of 13.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06058

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 06058, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access. We examine the multifaceted aspects of transportation within and around Norfolk, Connecticut, analyzing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport to determine the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare facilities. This evaluation is critical for anyone considering moving to Norfolk, ensuring they understand the practical realities of accessing medical care.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ability to physically reach medical providers. For residents of 06058, this typically involves vehicular transportation. The primary arteries for navigating the region are Route 44, Route 272, and Route 183. These roads, while offering scenic routes through the Litchfield Hills, can present challenges. Drive times fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, weather conditions, and traffic volume, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Accessing healthcare in nearby towns like Winsted or Torrington necessitates careful planning. Traveling east on Route 44, a drive to Charlotte Hungerford Hospital in Torrington can take anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading west on Route 44 to Winsted and the Winsted Health Center, the journey typically takes around 15 to 25 minutes. Route 272, a more rural road, provides an alternative route, but its winding nature and potential for slower speeds should be considered.

Public transportation options in Norfolk are limited, impacting the overall health score. The Northwest Connecticut Transit District (NWCTD) provides some bus services, but the frequency and coverage within 06058 are restricted. The NWCTD operates routes that may connect Norfolk to nearby towns. However, these routes often have limited schedules, particularly on weekends and evenings. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities, and the NWCTD does offer such services, but advance planning and scheduling are frequently required.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Norfolk. Demand and driver availability can fluctuate, leading to longer wait times or even the inability to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This variability poses a significant challenge for residents needing timely access to medical appointments or emergency care.

Medical transport services play a vital role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized transportation. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering services ranging from basic ambulatory transport to stretcher-bound transportation. These services often require advance booking and may involve varying costs depending on the distance and level of care needed. Evaluating the availability, cost, and responsiveness of these services is crucial for residents who cannot drive or utilize standard transportation options.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is another critical factor. While Norfolk itself has limited medical services, the availability of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialist offices in neighboring towns is essential. Understanding the types of services available within a reasonable distance is vital for assessing the overall health score. This includes evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 06058 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limitations of public transportation and the variability of ride-sharing services, creates a moderate challenge for residents. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for individuals with specific needs, but their cost and scheduling requirements must be considered.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are a key determinant of the score. The longer the drive, the greater the potential for delays and increased stress, especially during emergencies. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can further impact drive times and safety. The availability of emergency services, such as ambulance response times, is also a critical factor in assessing the overall health score.

The affordability of transportation is another significant consideration. The cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle, including gas, insurance, and maintenance, can be a financial burden for many residents. The cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport can also be substantial. The availability of financial assistance programs for transportation costs is a factor that can impact the overall health score.

For individuals considering moving to Norfolk, a thorough understanding of these transportation and healthcare access factors is paramount. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers, assess their ability to drive or utilize alternative transportation options, and consider the potential costs associated with healthcare access. This information is crucial for making an informed decision about whether Norfolk is the right place to live, ensuring they can readily access the healthcare they need.

The overall health score in 06058 reflects a landscape where access to healthcare requires careful planning and consideration. While the natural beauty and tranquility of Norfolk are undeniable, the practical realities of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully evaluated. The score is not a simple number but a complex assessment of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents in reaching the medical care they need. This assessment highlights the importance of proactive planning and a realistic understanding of the resources available to ensure optimal health and well-being for all residents.