06377, Sterling, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06377, Sterling, Connecticut is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.70 percent of residents in 06377 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is William W Backus Hospital with a distance of 18.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06377 (Sterling, CT)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital resources, and healthcare access is paramount. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Sterling, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06377), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services. We will examine the landscape of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing, to assess the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Sterling, as it directly impacts their well-being and quality of life.

Sterling, a predominantly rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's geographical location, characterized by rolling hills and scattered settlements, influences the availability and efficiency of transportation. The "Overall Health Score" will consider these factors, providing a comprehensive understanding of the commute to healthcare for residents.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

For many Sterling residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The network of roads, including major arteries and local thoroughfares, significantly impacts drive times to healthcare facilities.

The primary route for accessing healthcare from Sterling involves utilizing **Route 14A** and **Route 14**. These roads connect Sterling to nearby towns like Plainfield and Putnam, where a concentration of medical services is available. Drive times to these locations typically range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions.

**Route 14** provides a direct connection to Dayville, where Day Kimball Hospital is located. This is a significant healthcare provider for the region. The drive from Sterling to Day Kimball Hospital is generally around 20 minutes, offering a relatively convenient option for emergency care and specialized services.

Further afield, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Norwich or Providence, Rhode Island, for specialized care. These journeys involve utilizing **Route 14** to connect with **Interstate 395 (I-395)** or **Route 6**. Travel times to these locations can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on the destination and traffic. **Route 6** is a major east-west thoroughfare that provides access to healthcare facilities in the Providence area, which is a significant healthcare hub for the region.

Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Residents should factor in potential delays when planning medical appointments. The condition of the roads, especially during inclement weather, can also affect travel safety and efficiency.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Sterling are limited, which can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The availability of buses, trains, and other forms of public transit is crucial for ensuring equitable access to medical care.

The **Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT)** provides some limited bus service in the region. However, the service area is limited, and routes may not directly serve all areas of Sterling. Schedules and frequency can also be a challenge.

**SEAT** buses may offer connections to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns, but transfers and longer travel times are often required. Information regarding ADA accessibility features, such as wheelchair ramps and designated seating, should be readily available on the SEAT website or through their customer service channels.

The lack of extensive public transportation options underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions, especially for those who cannot drive or do not own a vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for residents of Sterling. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. It is essential to research and compare different providers to find the most suitable option for individual needs and financial constraints.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Sterling:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Sterling, CT, is influenced by the availability of transportation options. While personal vehicles offer the most convenient access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can pose barriers for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Sterling, it is crucial to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to healthcare. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should thoroughly investigate the available options and plan accordingly.

The distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized medical services, and the efficiency of transportation options all contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 06377 is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average drive times to various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transportation options, including ADA features.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities within and surrounding Sterling.
* **Traffic Conditions:** The impact of traffic congestion on drive times, particularly during peak hours.
* **Road Conditions:** The condition of roads and their impact on travel safety and efficiency.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for Sterling, several recommendations can be considered:

* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Advocate for expanded public transportation services, including increased route coverage, frequency, and accessibility features.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Encourage the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Support Medical Transportation:** Provide information and resources to support medical transportation services.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Maintain and improve the road network to ensure safe and efficient travel.
* **Community Awareness:** Educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources.

By addressing these factors, the community can improve healthcare access, promote the health and well-being of its residents, and create a more welcoming environment for those considering moving to Sterling.