06105, Hartford, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06105, Hartford, Connecticut is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.73 percent of residents in 06105 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital & Medical Center with a distance of 0.37 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06105

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when considering a move, especially within a city like Hartford, Connecticut, where neighborhoods vary significantly. This analysis focuses on the 06105 ZIP code, offering a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' based on transportation options available for accessing medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit routes, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transportation services, painting a detailed picture of healthcare access.

The 06105 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Hartford, presents a mixed bag of transportation challenges and opportunities. Its proximity to downtown and major roadways offers some advantages, but reliance on public transit can be a hurdle. This assessment aims to provide a realistic evaluation, recognizing the nuances of navigating to healthcare appointments within this specific area.

**Drive Times: The Road Ahead**

For residents of 06105 with access to a personal vehicle, the primary arteries for healthcare access are Interstate 84 (I-84) and Interstate 91 (I-91). These highways provide relatively quick routes to major hospitals and medical centers. However, peak traffic hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly impact drive times.

Traveling to Hartford Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically involves navigating I-84 East. During off-peak hours, the drive might take approximately 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, this could easily extend to 25-30 minutes, or even longer, depending on the specific origin point within 06105. Similarly, access to Saint Francis Hospital, another prominent facility, often involves using I-84 West, with similar time fluctuations based on traffic conditions.

Local roads, such as Asylum Avenue, Farmington Avenue, and Albany Avenue, also play a crucial role in healthcare access. These roads offer alternative routes, potentially bypassing highway congestion, but they are often subject to traffic lights and local traffic patterns. The efficiency of these routes depends heavily on the specific destination and the time of day. For instance, reaching clinics and urgent care facilities located along these avenues might be quicker than using the highways, especially during peak times.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

For those relying on public transportation, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates a bus network that serves the 06105 area. Several bus routes provide access to healthcare facilities, but the overall accessibility is a concern.

Route 60, for example, travels along Albany Avenue, a corridor with several medical offices and clinics. Route 66 serves Farmington Avenue, offering access to Hartford Hospital. Route 91 runs along Main Street, connecting to downtown and various healthcare facilities.

However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier. Long wait times and the potential for multiple transfers can add considerable time to the commute, making healthcare access less convenient. Furthermore, while CTDOT strives to ensure accessibility, the availability of ADA-compliant buses and the ease of navigating bus stops with mobility limitations are essential considerations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in the 06105 area, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing travel times and eliminating the need for parking. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, offer a specialized option. These services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for those who require assistance. While these services offer crucial support, they often require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility requirements.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The 'Overall Health Score' for commuting to healthcare in 06105 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major highways provides relatively quick access for those with vehicles, the reliance on public transit presents challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative options, but they come with their own limitations.

The score is influenced by several factors. The availability of multiple transportation options enhances the score, as does the proximity to a variety of healthcare facilities. However, the impact of traffic congestion, the frequency of public transit routes, and the cost of ride-sharing services detract from the score. Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To enhance healthcare access in 06105, several improvements are recommended. Increasing the frequency and reliability of public transit routes, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, is essential. Improving the accessibility of bus stops and ensuring ADA-compliant buses are readily available would benefit those with mobility limitations.

Promoting the use of ride-sharing services, potentially through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers, could reduce transportation barriers for some residents. Expanding the availability of medical transportation services and streamlining the booking process would also be beneficial.

Finally, providing clear and accessible information about all available transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, is crucial for empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. This information should be readily available online, at healthcare facilities, and in community centers.

**Conclusion: Moving to Hartford and Healthcare**

Considering a move to Hartford, especially within the 06105 ZIP code, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. This 'Overall Health Score' write-up provides a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape, highlighting both the opportunities and the challenges. By understanding these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the care they require. This assessment is not just about transportation; it is about ensuring the well-being of individuals and fostering a healthy community within Hartford.