06254, North Franklin, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06254, North Franklin, Connecticut is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.63 percent of residents in 06254 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Windham Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06254 (North Franklin, CT)

Assessing healthcare access in North Franklin, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06254) requires a multifaceted approach, considering the critical role of transportation. This analysis will provide an "Overall Health Score," factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, offering a comprehensive understanding for residents and those contemplating **moving to North Franklin**. The evaluation will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, contributing to a clearer picture of **healthcare access** within the community.

The geographical layout of North Franklin significantly impacts healthcare access. The town is primarily rural, with a dispersed population, influencing the availability and efficiency of transportation options. Proximity to larger towns like Norwich and Willimantic, which house major medical facilities, is a crucial consideration. The **transportation** infrastructure is vital for connecting residents to these essential resources.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary roadways serving North Franklin are crucial for accessing healthcare. Route 32 is a major artery, connecting residents to Norwich and Willimantic. Driving to the William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich, a major regional hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive involves navigating Route 32 south. The drive to Windham Hospital in Willimantic, another significant healthcare provider, is slightly shorter, averaging 15-25 minutes via Route 32 north.

Smaller, local roads, such as Route 14 and Route 207, provide alternative routes, though they often involve more winding roads and potential delays. These routes are less direct but can be useful depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions. The time spent on these roads contributes significantly to the overall accessibility of healthcare services.

The efficiency of these commutes is highly dependent on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. Morning and evening commutes can add considerable time to these drives, impacting the timely arrival at appointments or the ability to seek immediate care in emergencies. The overall drive-time score will reflect this variance, factoring in both average and peak-hour travel durations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in North Franklin are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) provides bus services in the region, but the routes and schedules are not extensive within North Franklin itself. Services are primarily concentrated in larger towns like Norwich and New London.

The availability of SEAT routes within ZIP Code 06254 is sparse, with limited frequency and coverage. This restricts access for individuals who rely on public transit, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford a car. The lack of frequent and accessible public transit significantly impacts the overall health score.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. SEAT strives to provide accessible services, but the availability of accessible routes and vehicles within the North Franklin area requires further investigation. The score will consider the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses and the ease of access to bus stops for individuals with disabilities.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, though their availability in North Franklin can vary. The presence of these services provides a degree of flexibility, particularly for those who need transportation to appointments or require occasional trips to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, play a crucial role, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those who require specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including local providers and national brands. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff.

The availability and cost-effectiveness of medical transportation services are essential components of the health score. The score will consider the range of providers available, the types of services offered (e.g., wheelchair-accessible vehicles, stretcher transport), and the associated costs.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 06254 will be a composite score, taking into account the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Weighted based on average and peak-hour travel times to major healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit:** Assessed based on the frequency, coverage, and accessibility of SEAT routes within the area.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Evaluated based on the availability, cost, and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation:** Assessed based on the availability, types of services, and cost-effectiveness of medical transport providers.

Each factor will be assigned a score, and the overall score will be a weighted average of these individual scores. This comprehensive evaluation will provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access in North Franklin, influencing the decision-making process for residents and those considering **moving to North Franklin**.

**Specific Considerations for the Score**

The score will also consider the following:

* **Proximity to Emergency Services:** The location of emergency medical services (EMS) and the average response times.
* **Availability of Urgent Care Facilities:** The presence of urgent care clinics within a reasonable distance.
* **Telehealth Options:** The availability of telehealth services, which can reduce the need for in-person visits.
* **Demographic Considerations:** The needs of specific populations, such as seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents.

**Conclusion**

The overall health score for healthcare access in North Franklin, CT (ZIP Code 06254) is a dynamic measure, reflecting the interplay of transportation options, healthcare facility locations, and demographic needs. While the area offers access to major hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public transit and the potential variability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial safety net, particularly for those with mobility limitations. The final score will provide a valuable tool for residents, prospective residents, and healthcare providers, helping them to understand and address the specific needs of the community, ensuring **healthcare access** remains a priority. The score will be a living document, updated regularly to reflect changes in **transportation** infrastructure and healthcare services, contributing to the well-being of those **moving to North Franklin**.