06074, South Windsor, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06074, South Windsor, Connecticut is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.31 percent of residents in 06074 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Manchester Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06074

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP code 06074, encompassing South Windsor, Connecticut, a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape reveals a nuanced picture of healthcare accessibility. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, ultimately assigning an "Overall Health Score" reflective of the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical attention. The information is crucial for anyone considering moving to South Windsor, ensuring they understand the practicalities of healthcare access.

South Windsor, a vibrant suburban town, enjoys a generally high quality of life. However, the geographic distribution of healthcare facilities and the available transportation options significantly impact healthcare access for its residents. The Overall Health Score aims to quantify this impact, providing a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Care**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in South Windsor is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town's location provides relatively easy access to a variety of healthcare facilities. The major thoroughfares, Interstate 84 (I-84) and Route 5, serve as the primary arteries for reaching hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers.

For residents living in the southern part of South Windsor, accessing Hartford Hospital, a major regional medical center, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via I-84 East. This route generally offers smooth traffic flow, except during peak rush hours, which can extend the commute significantly. Similarly, Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center in Hartford is accessible via I-84 East, with a similar travel time.

Those residing in the northern areas of South Windsor may find Hartford Healthcare's Manchester Memorial Hospital more convenient. The drive, primarily along Route 5 and local roads, typically takes around 10-15 minutes. This route offers a slightly less congested experience compared to the I-84 corridor, particularly during peak hours.

Specialized clinics and urgent care facilities are also scattered throughout the surrounding areas. Accessing these facilities often involves shorter drives, typically within 10-15 minutes, depending on the location within South Windsor. However, reliance on a personal vehicle presents challenges for individuals without access to a car, the elderly, or those with disabilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in South Windsor, and the surrounding areas, are available but limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for some residents. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus services through the Connecticut Transit (CTtransit) system.

The primary CTtransit route serving South Windsor is Route 913, which runs along Route 5, providing connections to Hartford and other surrounding towns. This route offers a connection to the CTfastrak bus rapid transit system, which provides a dedicated busway to Hartford, offering a potentially quicker travel time. However, the frequency of Route 913, especially during evenings and weekends, is relatively low.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor for individuals with disabilities. CTtransit strives to provide accessible services, but the limited frequency and route coverage can still pose challenges. The lack of convenient connections to healthcare facilities, particularly those located away from Route 5, further restricts the utility of public transit for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for healthcare access in South Windsor. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially mitigating the limitations of public transit and the constraints of car ownership. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and demand, particularly in less densely populated areas.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Several medical transport companies operate in the South Windsor area, including AMR (American Medical Response) and local private providers. These services offer a range of transportation options, from basic wheelchair-accessible vans to advanced life support ambulances.

The cost of medical transport services can be a significant factor, and insurance coverage may vary. Coordination with healthcare providers and insurance companies is crucial to ensure access to these services.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

Considering the factors outlined above, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP code 06074 presents a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access is high, offering relatively short drive times to major hospitals and clinics. However, the limitations of public transit, coupled with the potential challenges of ride-sharing and the cost of medical transport, create barriers for certain segments of the population.

The Overall Health Score is moderately positive. Residents with access to a personal vehicle enjoy relatively convenient access to healthcare facilities. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with alternative transportation options warrant consideration.

For individuals considering moving to South Windsor, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. While the town offers a generally good quality of life, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is crucial for making an informed decision. Future improvements in public transit, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and greater affordability of medical transport could significantly enhance the Overall Health Score for the community. This would ensure that all residents, regardless of their individual circumstances, can readily access the healthcare they need.