06103, Hartford, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06103, Hartford, Connecticut is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.01 percent of residents in 06103 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Connecticut Childrens Medical Center with a distance of 0.93 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06103

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical aspect of overall well-being. For residents of Hartford's 06103 ZIP code, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount to securing timely and efficient medical care. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive view of the transportation infrastructure impacting healthcare access. Prospective residents considering moving to Hartford should find this particularly insightful.

The 06103 ZIP code, encompassing significant portions of Hartford, presents a varied transportation environment. Proximity to major roadways like Interstate 84 (I-84) and Interstate 91 (I-91) offers a potential advantage for those relying on personal vehicles. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying critical medical appointments.

**Drive Times and Roadway Considerations**

Drive times to healthcare facilities within and surrounding 06103 are heavily influenced by traffic patterns. For instance, a trip from the Asylum Hill neighborhood to Hartford Hospital, a major medical center, might take 5-10 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily stretch to 20-30 minutes, especially if navigating local roads such as Farmington Avenue or Asylum Avenue.

Similarly, accessing Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, another prominent healthcare provider, from the South End of 06103 might involve a 15-20 minute drive under normal conditions, primarily utilizing I-91 or local roads. The presence of multiple hospitals and clinics within a relatively compact area is a positive factor, yet the effectiveness of this proximity hinges on efficient transportation.

The condition of roadways also plays a role. Potholes, construction zones, and weather-related delays, especially during winter months, can further complicate commutes. Residents should factor in these variables when planning medical appointments, allowing ample travel time to avoid unnecessary stress and potential delays in receiving care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City's Arteries**

Public transportation provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid the stress of driving. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates the CTtransit bus system, offering several routes that serve the 06103 ZIP code.

Several bus routes, including the 901, 902, 903, and 918, traverse key areas within and around 06103, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. The 901 route, for example, serves Hartford Hospital, while other routes offer access to clinics and medical offices throughout the city.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. CTtransit buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps or lifts, priority seating, and audio-visual announcements. However, the frequency of service and the availability of accessible stops can vary depending on the route and time of day.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand transportation options, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can be particularly useful for urgent medical needs or for those with limited mobility.

The availability of ride-sharing in 06103 is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost of transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer another valuable resource. These services often cater to patients with mobility challenges or those who require specialized assistance.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the Hartford area, including companies like AMR and CareLine. These services typically require advance booking and may involve additional costs, but they provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot independently access healthcare facilities.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Evaluation**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 06103 is not solely determined by transportation options. Factors like the availability of healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and the affordability of medical services also play significant roles.

The presence of major hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical practices within and near 06103 is a positive indicator. However, the effectiveness of these facilities depends on residents' ability to reach them efficiently.

**Moving to Hartford: A Transportation-Focused Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Hartford and the 06103 ZIP code, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. Assessing your personal transportation needs, whether relying on a personal vehicle, public transit, or ride-sharing services, is essential.

Evaluating the proximity of healthcare facilities to potential residences, understanding the frequency and reliability of public transit routes, and researching the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation options are all crucial steps.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 06103 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the presence of major roadways and the availability of public transit offer potential benefits, traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit accessibility can pose challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers further enhances the transportation landscape. However, the cost of these services and the need for advance planning should be considered.

Ultimately, residents of 06103 have a range of transportation options for accessing healthcare. By carefully evaluating these options and planning accordingly, residents can mitigate the challenges and ensure timely and efficient access to the medical care they need. This is particularly important for individuals considering moving to Hartford, as a thorough understanding of the transportation infrastructure will contribute significantly to their overall well-being.