06256, North Windham, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06256, North Windham, Connecticut is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.95 percent of residents in 06256 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Windham Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.04 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06256**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially in a new locale, presents a multifaceted challenge. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP Code 06256 (North Windham, Connecticut), focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing healthcare facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to North Windham.

The geographic reality of North Windham significantly influences healthcare access. The town’s relative isolation, nestled in the northeastern corner of Connecticut, dictates the transportation options available. Residents primarily rely on personal vehicles, with public transportation playing a smaller role. This reliance on personal vehicles impacts the overall health score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a car.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are Interstate 384, US Route 6, and Route 32. Traveling to healthcare providers in the surrounding towns, such as Willimantic, often requires navigating these roads. Drive times vary depending on traffic conditions, which can be heavier during peak commuting hours. A trip to Windham Hospital, a major healthcare provider in the region, typically takes around 10-15 minutes, assuming minimal traffic.

However, reaching specialized care or hospitals in larger cities like Hartford or New Haven requires significantly longer drives. Expect travel times of approximately 45 minutes to an hour to Hartford, and closer to an hour and a half to New Haven. These extended travel times can pose a challenge for individuals requiring urgent care or frequent appointments. The condition of the roads and the potential for inclement weather, particularly during the winter months, can further complicate these commutes, impacting healthcare access.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in the North Windham area are limited. The Windham Region Transit District (WRTD) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are not extensive. The primary routes serving the area include Route 3, which connects North Windham to Willimantic and other surrounding towns. The frequency of these routes may not always align with healthcare appointment schedules.

The WRTD does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited route coverage and potential for longer travel times due to the bus schedule can still present challenges for those requiring convenient and timely transportation to medical appointments. The overall impact of public transportation on the health score is moderate, due to its limited availability and potential for longer travel times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. This means that securing a ride to a healthcare appointment may not always be guaranteed.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While offering a more specialized service, medical transport can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation. The availability of these services enhances the health score, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance with transportation.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations**

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in 06256 is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services create a mixed picture. While Windham Hospital is relatively close, access to specialized care in larger cities requires longer travel times.

Individuals considering moving to North Windham should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those without access to a personal vehicle or with mobility limitations may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. It is crucial to consider the availability of ride-sharing services, the feasibility of public transportation, and the potential need for medical transport services.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in 06256 is assessed as "Fair." While residents have access to a hospital and some transportation options, the limitations of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care impact the score.

**Recommendations**

For individuals considering moving to North Windham, it is essential to research the availability of healthcare providers and assess their transportation needs. Exploring the WRTD bus routes, identifying potential ride-sharing services, and understanding the availability of medical transport options are crucial steps. Planning for potential travel delays, especially during inclement weather, is also recommended.

Advocating for improved public transportation services, including expanded routes and increased frequency, could significantly improve healthcare access for all residents. Supporting initiatives that promote the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options would also enhance the overall health score.