06420, Salem, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06420, Salem, Connecticut is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.85 percent of residents in 06420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Middlesex Hospital with a distance of 20.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06420

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is crucial for anyone considering a move, particularly to a new town like Salem, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06420). This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the transportation infrastructure, accessibility, and options available for residents to reach medical facilities. This score isn't just about the distance; it encompasses the totality of the journey, considering the various modes of transportation, their reliability, and the specific needs of the community.

Salem, a charming rural community, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The primary transportation mode is the personal vehicle, with limited public transportation options. The success of one's healthcare journey hinges on the efficiency and convenience of this personal mobility.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary arteries connecting Salem to healthcare facilities are Route 82, Route 11, and Route 85. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly around Colchester and Norwich. Residents of Salem, especially those residing further from these main routes, should factor in these delays when planning appointments.

The nearest hospitals, such as Backus Hospital in Norwich and Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London, are typically accessible within a 20-30 minute drive under normal traffic conditions. These drive times can fluctuate depending on the specific location within 06420 and the time of day. Specialist appointments, often located in larger cities like Hartford or New Haven, can require significantly longer travel times, potentially exceeding an hour.

The condition of these roads is a key factor in transportation. Route 82, while a primary thoroughfare, has sections that may require careful navigation, especially during inclement weather. Route 11, a limited-access highway, provides a more direct route to the coast, but its limited access points may necessitate longer detours for some residents. Route 85, while scenic, can experience heavy traffic during commuting hours, particularly near the intersection with Route 2.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Salem is limited. The Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) provides some bus services in the region, but these routes are primarily focused on serving the larger towns and cities surrounding Salem. Currently, there is no direct SEAT route serving Salem itself. Residents needing public transportation would likely need to drive to a nearby town with a SEAT stop, further increasing the overall travel time.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for those who cannot drive, particularly the elderly and individuals with disabilities. The absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, making it more difficult for these residents to attend appointments and receive necessary medical care.

It is important to note that SEAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the lack of direct service to Salem limits the accessibility of these features for residents of 06420.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant factor, potentially making them unaffordable for some residents.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for those with specific medical needs. These services are typically coordinated through insurance providers or healthcare facilities. However, these services may require advance booking and can be subject to delays.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The Overall Health Score for commute to healthcare in 06420 is influenced by several factors. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for traffic delays all contribute to a moderate score. While the drive times to nearby hospitals are generally reasonable, the lack of alternative transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges for certain segments of the population.

The availability of ride-share services and medical transport offers some support, but their limitations and potential costs further impact the score. The overall picture suggests that while healthcare is accessible, the transportation infrastructure presents some barriers to optimal healthcare access for all residents of Salem.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For those considering moving to Salem, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial. Individuals who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility should carefully assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities.

Residents should consider the potential for traffic delays, especially during peak hours. Planning appointments with ample travel time is highly recommended. Exploring the availability and cost of ride-share services and medical transport options is also essential.

The community could benefit from exploring options to improve healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded public transportation services, partnering with ride-share companies to provide subsidized transportation, or developing local transportation programs specifically designed to serve the healthcare needs of the community.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 06420 reflects a situation where healthcare is generally accessible but requires careful planning and consideration of transportation limitations. While the drive times to nearby hospitals are reasonable, the absence of robust public transportation and the potential for traffic delays create challenges. Individuals considering moving to Salem should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the available options to ensure they can readily access the healthcare they require. The community can also work to improve healthcare access by exploring options to improve transportation.