06412, Chester, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06412, Chester, Connecticut is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.54 percent of residents in 06412 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Middlesex Hospital with a distance of 13.96 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06412 (Chester, CT)**

Assessing the health of a community involves more than just the quality of its medical facilities. Crucially, it encompasses the ease with which residents can access those resources. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access within ZIP code 06412, focusing on the critical element of transportation. The score reflects the availability, efficiency, and accessibility of various transportation options, painting a detailed picture for anyone considering moving to Chester and evaluating their healthcare access.

Chester, Connecticut, nestled in the scenic Connecticut River Valley, presents a unique challenge. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its relative remoteness impacts healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" considers drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive understanding of how residents navigate the healthcare landscape.

**Drive Time and Road Infrastructure**

The primary mode of transportation in Chester is the personal vehicle. The town's road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the time it takes to reach various healthcare providers. The main thoroughfare is Route 148, which connects Chester to neighboring towns and provides access to larger regional roads.

For residents needing specialized care, the drive to larger hospitals becomes a significant factor. Hartford Hospital, a major regional medical center, is approximately a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. This journey typically involves navigating Route 9, a limited-access highway, and then connecting to I-91.

Yale New Haven Hospital, another prominent healthcare provider, is roughly an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes away, also influenced by traffic flow, especially around the New Haven area. This trip often involves Route 9 south, connecting to I-95.

Local healthcare options, such as the Middlesex Health Primary Care facility in Chester, are readily accessible, typically within a 5-10 minute drive. This proximity enhances the "Overall Health Score" by providing convenient access to primary care services.

**Public Transportation: Limited but Present**

Public transportation options in Chester are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) provides some bus service, but routes and frequency are restricted.

The 910 bus route, operated by the Estuary Transit District (ETD), offers a connection to surrounding towns like Deep River and Old Saybrook. This route, however, has limited service, especially on weekends and evenings. The ETD bus system is required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This is a critical aspect of the "Overall Health Score," as it ensures that public transportation is available to all residents.

The availability of public transportation to healthcare facilities is a significant factor in the "Overall Health Score." The limited options in Chester necessitate reliance on other modes of transportation for many residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Chester, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence in the area, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, provide a valuable alternative. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services, offer transportation to and from medical appointments. They are particularly crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical attention during transport.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to the "Overall Health Score" by providing alternatives to personal vehicles and public transportation.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 06412 is moderate. While Chester offers local healthcare options, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some relief, but their cost and reliability can vary.

The key factors impacting the score include:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to regional hospitals, influenced by traffic.
* **Public Transportation:** Limited bus service, with ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability of Uber and Lyft, but with potential for variable service.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability of medical transport services, providing crucial support.

For individuals considering moving to Chester, understanding these factors is essential. The "Overall Health Score" highlights the importance of assessing individual transportation needs and planning accordingly.

**Recommendations**

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several initiatives could be beneficial:

* **Expand Public Transportation:** Increase the frequency and coverage of bus routes, especially to regional healthcare facilities.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing services to ensure greater availability and potentially subsidized fares for medical appointments.
* **Enhance Medical Transport:** Increase the availability and affordability of medical transport services.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available transportation options and resources for accessing healthcare.

By addressing these areas, Chester can enhance healthcare access for all its residents, contributing to a healthier community and improving the "Overall Health Score" for the region. The town's commitment to these improvements will make it an even more attractive place to live, particularly for those prioritizing convenient access to healthcare.