06422, Durham, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06422, Durham, Connecticut is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.96 percent of residents in 06422 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Middlesex Hospital with a distance of 6.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Durham, CT (ZIP Code 06422)

Assessing the overall health of a community necessitates a deep dive into numerous factors, including the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services. This analysis focuses on the critical aspect of **transportation** within Durham, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06422), evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities and its impact on the community's overall health score. For individuals considering **moving to Durham**, understanding these nuances is paramount.

Durham, a charming New England town, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While offering a relatively tranquil lifestyle, its geographical layout and limited public transportation options present specific challenges. This write-up meticulously examines the available **transportation** methods, their efficiency, and their implications for residents seeking medical care.

The primary mode of transportation in Durham is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The town's road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the flow of healthcare access. The major arteries include Route 17, Route 68, and Route 147. These roads, while providing direct routes to surrounding towns, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to critical medical appointments. The drive times to nearby hospitals and clinics are a crucial element in evaluating the overall health score.

For residents of 06422, the nearest major hospital is MidState Medical Center in Meriden, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 68 and then onto I-91 North. This drive, while relatively short, can be significantly impacted by rush-hour traffic, particularly on I-91. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, making it a critical resource for the community.

Another option is Yale New Haven Hospital, a more significant facility offering specialized care. This drive, however, is substantially longer, typically taking around 30-45 minutes via Route 17 South and then onto the Wilbur Cross Parkway (Route 15) or I-91 South. This longer travel time could pose a challenge for individuals with urgent medical needs or those requiring frequent appointments.

Smaller, more accessible clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout the region. These facilities, often located in neighboring towns like Middletown and Wallingford, offer primary care, specialist consultations, and urgent care services. Drive times to these facilities range from 10 to 25 minutes, primarily utilizing Route 17, Route 68, and local roads. The availability of these closer options is a positive factor, mitigating some of the challenges associated with longer hospital commutes.

Public transportation options in Durham are limited. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) provides bus services, but these are primarily designed to connect Durham to larger towns and cities. The primary bus route serving the area is the CTtransit Route 50, which runs between Middletown and New Haven. While this route does pass through Durham, its frequency is limited, and its primary focus is not on healthcare access. The route may not always align with the schedules of medical appointments. The route's accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair accessibility, is an important consideration.

The CTDOT also offers a paratransit service, known as Dial-A-Ride, specifically designed for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use the fixed-route bus system. This service requires advance booking and may not always be available for immediate medical needs. The effectiveness of this service depends on the availability of vehicles and the scheduling demands.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Durham, providing another **transportation** alternative. However, their reliability and cost can vary. During peak hours or in inclement weather, wait times can increase, and surge pricing can make these services expensive. This variability makes them a less dependable option for time-sensitive healthcare needs.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized approach. These services, often provided by private companies, focus on transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. They provide door-to-door service, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The availability and cost of these services in Durham are important considerations.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Durham, CT (06422) is moderately positive. The town benefits from its proximity to several hospitals and clinics, offering a range of medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options present challenges. The potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can impact the timely access to care.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers offers alternative solutions, but their reliability and cost can be limiting factors. The limited public **transportation** options, particularly for individuals with disabilities, pose a significant challenge.

For individuals considering **moving to Durham**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and medical requirements is essential. Those who rely on public **transportation** or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and their potential impact on their healthcare access.

The overall health score could be improved by enhancing public **transportation** services, increasing the frequency of bus routes, and expanding the availability of paratransit options. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** services through community outreach programs could also improve healthcare access.

The town's strategic location, with its proximity to major highways, is a positive factor. The availability of a range of healthcare facilities, from primary care clinics to major hospitals, provides a comprehensive healthcare network. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion remain significant challenges.

In conclusion, while Durham offers a reasonable level of **healthcare access**, improvements in public **transportation** and increased awareness of alternative **transportation** options are crucial to further enhance the community's overall health score. Individuals **moving to Durham** should carefully consider these factors when evaluating the town's suitability for their healthcare needs. The balance between the convenience of personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** shapes the healthcare landscape in Durham, impacting the quality of life for its residents.