06071, Somers, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06071, Somers, Connecticut is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.37 percent of residents in 06071 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnson Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06071 (Somers, CT)

This analysis provides an overall health score for healthcare access in Somers, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06071), focusing on transportation options. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing prospective residents with crucial information when considering moving to Somers and evaluating their healthcare needs. The score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services.

The overall health score is influenced by several factors. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability and efficiency of transportation options, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with disabilities are all considered. This assessment aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Somers, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Somers, Connecticut, is a primarily suburban community, and personal vehicle transportation is the most common mode for healthcare access. The primary roadways influencing drive times are Interstate 84 (I-84), Route 190, and Route 83. The town's location offers a degree of convenience, but the specifics of drive times are crucial.

For routine primary care, residents can access local practices within Somers. Drive times to these facilities are generally short, often under 10 minutes. This convenience is a significant advantage for residents needing regular check-ups and preventative care. However, the availability of specialists in Somers is limited, necessitating travel to larger towns and cities.

Specialized medical care, such as cardiology, dermatology, and oncology, often requires travel to nearby towns like Enfield, CT, or Springfield, MA. Travel times to these locations can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. Driving to Enfield via Route 190 and I-91 can take 20-30 minutes, while traveling to Springfield via I-91 might take 30-45 minutes.

For emergency situations, access to hospitals is critical. The closest hospitals include Johnson Memorial Hospital in Stafford Springs, CT, and Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, MA. Driving to Johnson Memorial Hospital via Route 190 and Route 19 is typically a 15-20 minute drive. Reaching Baystate Medical Center, a Level 1 trauma center, may take 35-50 minutes via I-91, depending on traffic.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Somers are limited. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus services in the region, but these routes are not extensive and primarily serve the larger towns and cities. This limits the accessibility of public transit for healthcare access in Somers.

The nearest bus routes are operated by the CTtransit system in Enfield. Route 913 provides service along Hazard Avenue in Enfield, which could be accessed via a car ride or, potentially, a ride-sharing service from Somers. However, the frequency of these buses is often limited, and the travel time to access healthcare facilities using this method would likely be significantly longer than driving.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. CTtransit buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the limited route coverage and the need for additional transportation to reach the bus stops from Somers pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Somers and can provide an alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The availability and cost of these services can vary depending on demand and time of day.

Ride-sharing can be a convenient option for accessing healthcare facilities in nearby towns. However, the cost can be a barrier for some individuals, and the reliability of these services may be affected by factors such as driver availability and weather conditions.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers serve the Somers area.

Companies such as MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. They provide transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare appointments safely and comfortably.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Somers:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Somers, CT (06071), is moderate. While residents have convenient access to local primary care, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care and emergency services presents a challenge. The limited public transportation options and the variability of ride-sharing services add to the complexity of healthcare access.

When considering moving to Somers, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Individuals who require frequent specialist appointments or have mobility limitations should factor in the drive times and the availability of medical transport services.

The town's proximity to major highways like I-84 and I-91 offers a degree of convenience for accessing healthcare facilities in neighboring towns and cities. However, traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Planning for potential delays is essential.

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is a critical consideration. While CTtransit buses offer accessible features, the limited route coverage in the area may necessitate reliance on ride-sharing services or medical transport.

The availability of medical transport services provides a valuable resource for individuals who require assistance with transportation. Prospective residents should research the providers available in the area and understand the eligibility requirements and costs associated with these services.

In conclusion, while Somers offers a generally healthy environment, healthcare access requires careful consideration of transportation options. Prospective residents should weigh the convenience of local primary care against the need to travel for specialized services. The availability of personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to the overall health score for healthcare access in this Connecticut community. Careful planning and understanding the available resources are essential for ensuring that residents can access the healthcare they need.