06239, Danielson, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06239, Danielson, Connecticut is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.46 percent of residents in 06239 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Day Kimball Hospital with a distance of 7.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06239 (Danielson, CT)

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Danielson, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06239) requires understanding the nuances of its transportation infrastructure. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the accessibility of medical services, considering factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Danielson, as convenient healthcare access is paramount for overall well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" for 06239 is moderately positive, reflecting a mixed bag of accessibility options. While Danielson itself has limited direct healthcare facilities, residents benefit from its proximity to larger towns and cities offering a wider array of medical services. The score considers the time, effort, and resources required to reach these services, painting a picture of the ease or difficulty of accessing care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Danielson is by car. The town's central location allows for relatively easy access to surrounding areas. Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare, serves as the main artery, connecting Danielson to Willimantic to the west and Rhode Island to the east. This highway offers a direct route to Windham Hospital in Willimantic, a crucial healthcare provider for the region.

Route 6A, a parallel road, provides a more scenic and less congested alternative, though it may add a few minutes to travel times. Interstate 395, a north-south highway, is accessible via Route 6, offering convenient access to healthcare facilities in Norwich and other southern destinations.

Drive times to key healthcare providers vary depending on traffic and the specific destination. Expect a 20-30 minute drive to Windham Hospital in Willimantic under normal traffic conditions. Reaching healthcare facilities in Norwich, such as Backus Hospital, may take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on the route and traffic on I-395. For specialized care in larger cities like Hartford, the commute can extend to an hour or more.

**Public Transit: The Wheels of the Community**

Public transportation options in Danielson are limited but present. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) provides bus services through the Northeast Transportation Company (NETC). Several routes serve the Danielson area, connecting it to neighboring towns and cities.

The primary route for healthcare access is the 901 route, which connects Danielson to Willimantic, offering a direct connection to Windham Hospital. This route operates on a limited schedule, with fewer services on weekends and evenings. The buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities.

Other routes, such as the 903 and 904, provide connections to Putnam and other nearby towns, potentially offering access to additional healthcare providers. However, these routes might require transfers, increasing travel time and complexity. The frequency of these routes is also limited, making them less convenient for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Danielson, providing on-demand transportation options. However, their availability can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. Residents may experience longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the Danielson area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often require pre-booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria.

Local options include, but are not limited to, CareRide and Senior Transportation Services. These companies provide transportation to medical appointments, dialysis centers, and other healthcare facilities. They typically offer door-to-door service, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey.

**Healthcare Access: The Cornerstone of Well-being**

Healthcare access in Danielson is primarily reliant on transportation. The town itself has limited medical facilities, with a few primary care physicians and dental practices. Residents often need to travel to Willimantic, Norwich, or even further afield to access a comprehensive range of medical services.

Windham Hospital in Willimantic serves as the primary hospital for the region, offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and specialized treatments. Backus Hospital in Norwich provides additional healthcare options, including specialized care and surgical services.

The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and neurologists, is limited within Danielson. Residents often need to travel to larger cities to access these specialists. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options.

**Overall Health Score Breakdown**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. While the primary roadways offer good connectivity, travel times can be significant, especially to specialized facilities.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The NETC bus service provides some access to healthcare, but the limited schedule and potential for transfers can be challenging.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Moderate. Ride-sharing services offer on-demand transportation, but availability can be inconsistent.
* **Medical Transport:** Good. Medical transport services provide specialized support for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Healthcare Availability:** Moderate. While Danielson has limited facilities, residents have access to regional hospitals and healthcare providers.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Overall Health Score" for 06239 reflects a moderately accessible healthcare environment. While the town's location provides access to regional healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful planning.

Moving to Danielson necessitates a thorough assessment of individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, including drive times, bus routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

Prioritizing healthcare access is essential for anyone considering a move to Danielson. By understanding the transportation landscape and available healthcare resources, residents can proactively ensure their well-being and navigate the healthcare system effectively. The community continues to evolve, and with a focus on transportation and healthcare access, Danielson can strive to improve its "Overall Health Score" for all its residents.