06231, Amston, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06231, Amston, Connecticut is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.36 percent of residents in 06231 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Windham Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.36 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06231

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when evaluating the overall health of a community. This analysis focuses on healthcare access within ZIP code 06231, encompassing the town of Amston, Connecticut, and assesses the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This includes examining the various transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This detailed evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" reflecting the community's ability to connect with vital healthcare resources.

The primary method of transportation for residents of Amston is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The geographic layout of the area, with its rural character, necessitates reliance on cars for most errands, including medical appointments. The major thoroughfare serving the area is Route 6, a vital east-west artery. Route 6 provides a relatively direct route to larger towns and cities where more specialized healthcare facilities are located.

Traveling south on Route 6, residents can access Windham Hospital in Willimantic, a regional healthcare hub. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Continuing west on Route 6 leads to Hartford, the state capital, where a greater concentration of hospitals, specialty clinics, and medical professionals can be found. This journey, however, can take upwards of an hour, especially during peak commuting times.

Further, Route 85 offers a north-south connection, providing access to Norwich and the southeastern Connecticut region. This route provides access to Backus Hospital, another significant healthcare provider. The drive to Norwich is generally shorter than the trip to Hartford, typically taking around 30-45 minutes. The condition of these roads, including potential for potholes and weather-related hazards, can impact drive times.

The availability of public transportation in Amston and the surrounding areas is limited. The primary public transit option is provided by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT). The CTDOT operates bus routes throughout the state, but service in rural areas like Amston is infrequent.

The closest bus route to Amston is likely the 913, which runs between Norwich and Hartford. However, this route does not directly service Amston. Residents would need to travel to a nearby town, such as Colchester or Hebron, to access this bus line. The schedule of the 913 is limited, with buses running primarily during peak commuting hours, making it less convenient for medical appointments outside of standard business hours.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses should be considered. CTDOT buses are generally equipped with features such as ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, the limited frequency of service and the need to travel to a central bus stop can still pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Amston area, but their reliability and availability can vary. The presence of these services provides an alternative to personal vehicles, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not own a car. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost of these services, potentially making them unaffordable for some residents.

The availability of ride-sharing services is also impacted by the rural nature of the area. Drivers may be less readily available in Amston than in more densely populated urban centers, leading to longer wait times.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance companies, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical conditions. These services are generally more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, but they offer a valuable option for those who require specialized care.

The overall cost of healthcare access in Amston is also a significant factor. The cost of gas, vehicle maintenance, and insurance adds to the financial burden of relying on personal vehicles. The limited availability of public transit and the potential for high ride-sharing costs can exacerbate these financial challenges.

The distance to healthcare facilities and the travel time involved can also impact the health of residents. Longer travel times can lead to delayed treatment, particularly in emergency situations. This is especially concerning for individuals with chronic conditions or those who require frequent medical attention.

For individuals considering moving to Amston, understanding the accessibility of healthcare is crucial. While the town offers a tranquil environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options require careful consideration. Prospective residents should factor in the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for specialized medical transport.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 06231 is therefore moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles and ride-sharing services, the limited public transit options, the potential for long drive times, and the cost of transportation pose challenges. The score is further impacted by the rural nature of the area, which can affect the availability of ride-sharing services and the responsiveness of emergency medical services.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," initiatives that enhance healthcare access are needed. This could include expanding public transit options, promoting carpooling programs, and exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments. Furthermore, increasing the availability of telehealth services and establishing local healthcare clinics could reduce the need for long-distance travel.

In conclusion, while residents of Amston have access to healthcare, the challenges associated with transportation must be carefully considered. A comprehensive understanding of the available options and the potential barriers to access is crucial for assessing the overall health and well-being of the community. By addressing the transportation challenges, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 06231 can be improved, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and appropriate medical care.