06076, Stafford Springs, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06076, Stafford Springs, Connecticut is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.80 percent of residents in 06076 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnson Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Stafford Springs, CT (ZIP Code 06076)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This report assesses the ease with which residents of Stafford Springs, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06076), can reach medical services, providing an “Overall Health Score” that considers various transportation options. This score is crucial for anyone considering moving to Stafford Springs, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. Understanding the nuances of transportation is paramount.

Stafford Springs, nestled in Tolland County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a charming New England atmosphere, its relative isolation and rural character influence transportation options. This analysis explores drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for residents.

**Drive Times: The Primary Mode**

For most Stafford Springs residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. This reliance underscores the importance of understanding drive times. The town's central location allows for relatively easy access to several healthcare hubs.

The primary arteries for reaching healthcare are the major highways. Route 190, running east-west, provides a direct route to Johnson Memorial Hospital in Stafford Springs itself. This is a crucial asset, offering immediate access to emergency services and general medical care.

For specialized care, residents often travel to larger medical centers. Interstate 84, a major east-west corridor, is easily accessible via Route 190. This highway opens doors to Hartford, a major medical center, which is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic.

Route 31, another key road, provides access to the town of Vernon, which offers some medical services. However, the distance is not as short as the trip to Johnson Memorial.

The time of day significantly impacts drive times. Peak hours can extend travel durations, particularly on I-84. Therefore, residents must factor in potential delays when planning medical appointments.

**Public Transit: Limited but Available**

Public transportation options in Stafford Springs are limited but exist. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus routes that serve the area. These services are vital for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The primary bus route serving Stafford Springs is the 913. This route connects Stafford Springs to the town of Vernon, providing access to healthcare facilities there. However, the frequency of the 913 is limited, and the route may not be suitable for all medical appointments.

The CTDOT strives to provide ADA-accessible buses on all routes, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This is a critical consideration for those requiring mobility assistance.

While the public transit system offers a lifeline, it is not a comprehensive solution. The limited routes and schedules can pose challenges for timely access to healthcare, especially for specialized appointments or emergencies. Careful planning is required.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplementing the System**

Ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offer alternative transportation solutions. These services can fill gaps in public transit and provide options for those unable to drive.

Uber and Lyft operate in the Stafford Springs area, providing on-demand transportation. These services can be a convenient option for accessing healthcare facilities, especially for those who do not own a vehicle. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available for individuals with specific medical needs. These services are typically used for appointments, hospital discharges, and other medical-related travel. Several local and regional providers offer these services, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions can access healthcare.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be a barrier for some residents. These expenses should be factored into the overall cost of healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Perspective**

Healthcare access in Stafford Springs is a multifaceted issue. While Johnson Memorial Hospital provides immediate care, residents often need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized treatments. The availability of transportation is critical to this access.

The presence of Johnson Memorial Hospital is a significant advantage, offering emergency services and general medical care within the town. This immediate access is a crucial factor in the community's health.

The proximity to Hartford, with its numerous hospitals and medical specialists, is another asset. The ability to reach these facilities within a reasonable timeframe expands the range of available healthcare options.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. Residents without vehicles or who cannot drive face potential difficulties in accessing healthcare. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can also be a barrier.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Stafford Springs (ZIP Code 06076) is **moderately positive**. The presence of a local hospital and the proximity to Hartford's medical centers are significant advantages. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further enhances access.

However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. Residents without vehicles may face difficulties in accessing healthcare, especially for specialized appointments or emergencies. The cost of transportation can also be a barrier.

**Recommendations**

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several recommendations are suggested:

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of bus routes, particularly the 913, to provide more convenient access to healthcare facilities. Explore options for expanding routes to include additional medical facilities.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Partner with ride-sharing services and medical transport providers to offer discounted rates or subsidized transportation for residents in need.
* **Improve Information Dissemination:** Provide clear and accessible information about all available transportation options, including bus schedules, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.
* **Community Collaboration:** Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations to develop innovative solutions for healthcare access.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Stafford Springs can further improve its healthcare access and enhance the overall health of its residents. This is particularly important for anyone considering moving to Stafford Springs, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The town's commitment to improving transportation options will be a critical factor in ensuring the health and well-being of its community.