06241, Dayville, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06241, Dayville, Connecticut is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.15 percent of residents in 06241 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Day Kimball Hospital with a distance of 4.44 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06241

Dayville, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06241), nestled in the heart of Windham County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. This evaluation considers the multifaceted nature of transportation, examining drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for residents, offering insights for current inhabitants and those considering moving to Dayville, ensuring informed decisions regarding healthcare accessibility.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Dayville is the reliance on personal vehicles. The geography of the area, characterized by rolling hills and rural expanses, necessitates a car for most healthcare appointments. The primary arteries for travel are Route 101, the major east-west thoroughfare, and Route 169, which runs north-south. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly near the intersection of Route 101 and I-395.

Driving to the nearest hospitals and medical centers requires careful planning. Dayville residents often travel to Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 101 East. This facility offers a range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialized medical departments. Alternatively, residents might journey to Backus Hospital in Norwich, a longer commute of roughly 30-40 minutes, predominantly via I-395 South. Backus provides a broader spectrum of specialized care.

The drive times, while manageable, are a crucial element in the overall health score. Factors such as weather conditions, especially during New England winters, can significantly extend travel times, impacting timely access to care. Furthermore, the availability of reliable transportation for individuals unable to drive is a pressing concern, particularly for seniors or those with disabilities.

Public transportation options in Dayville are limited. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (ConnDOT) operates a bus service, the 901 route, that serves the area. However, this route has limited frequency and coverage, primarily connecting Dayville to Putnam and Danielson. The 901 route does offer some ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, but the overall accessibility is constrained by the route's infrequent schedule and limited reach.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a challenge for those who depend on it for healthcare access. The limited service hours and infrequent departures can make it difficult to schedule appointments, especially for specialized care that might require travel outside the immediate vicinity. The overall health score is negatively impacted by this constraint.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability are not consistent. The rural nature of Dayville means that ride-sharing options may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This inconsistency can create uncertainty for those relying on these services for transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients with mobility challenges, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies operate in the area, including American Medical Response (AMR) and local private ambulance services. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments, dialysis, and other medical needs. While these services are available, they often require pre-booking and can be costly, adding to the overall financial burden of healthcare access.

The presence of medical transport services is a positive aspect of the overall health score, providing a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost and need for pre-planning can still pose challenges, particularly for those with limited financial resources or those requiring urgent care.

When evaluating the overall health score, it's important to consider the availability of healthcare providers within Dayville itself. While the town offers some primary care practices and dental offices, specialized care often requires travel to nearby towns or cities. This necessitates careful consideration of the transportation options available and the associated travel times.

The overall health score for Dayville (06241) reflects a mixed bag of healthcare access challenges and opportunities. While the drive times to nearby hospitals are generally manageable, the limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services present significant barriers for some residents.

The score is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers and the need to travel for specialized care. The rural nature of the area necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, making it challenging for those without access to a car. The overall health score is therefore a reflection of the interplay between transportation infrastructure, healthcare provider availability, and the needs of the community.

For those considering moving to Dayville, a careful assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limitations in transportation options should be a primary consideration. Planning for healthcare access, including potential reliance on medical transport services or the need to coordinate transportation with family or friends, is crucial for ensuring a positive healthcare experience.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Dayville (06241) is moderate. While the proximity to hospitals and the availability of medical transport services provide some assurance, the limited public transportation, the inconsistent ride-sharing options, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for many residents. A proactive approach to healthcare planning, including understanding the transportation options and considering the potential costs, is essential for maximizing healthcare access in this charming, yet geographically constrained, community. The score emphasizes the critical link between transportation and healthcare access, underscoring the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and support services for residents of Dayville.