06706, Waterbury, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06706, Waterbury, Connecticut is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.05 percent of residents in 06706 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 1.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06706 (Waterbury, CT)

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Waterbury, Connecticut, specifically within the 06706 ZIP code, understanding the ease of navigating the transportation landscape to medical facilities is paramount. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking healthcare. Considering the importance of these factors, the score reflects the overall accessibility, highlighting areas where improvements could significantly impact the well-being of the community.

The primary mode of transportation for many residents in 06706 is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Waterbury is a city built around roadways, with major arteries like Interstate 84 (I-84) and Route 8 serving as the primary connectors. Travel times to healthcare facilities within the city can vary significantly depending on the location of the facility and the time of day. During peak hours, the I-84 corridor, in particular, can experience heavy congestion, potentially adding considerable time to a commute to a doctor's appointment or emergency room visit.

For those residing in the western part of the ZIP code, accessing facilities located in the eastern sections, such as Saint Mary's Hospital or Waterbury Hospital, necessitates navigating through these congested areas. Conversely, residents in the eastern sections might find it easier to reach facilities located in the western part of the city, depending on the specific location and the traffic conditions on Route 8. Minor roads like Highland Avenue, Chase Parkway, and East Main Street also play a crucial role in accessing healthcare, providing alternative routes, though they can also be subject to traffic delays.

Public transportation, while available, presents a different set of challenges and considerations. The Connecticut Transit (CTtransit) system operates bus routes within Waterbury, offering a potentially viable option for those without personal vehicles. Several routes, including the 223, 225, and 228, serve the 06706 area, providing connections to major hospitals and medical centers. However, the frequency of these routes can be a limiting factor, particularly during evenings and weekends.

Furthermore, the accessibility of these routes for individuals with disabilities is a crucial aspect of the overall health score. CTtransit buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the bus system for individuals with mobility limitations can vary. The distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities and the presence of sidewalks and ramps also play a significant role in determining the accessibility of public transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. These services can provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, offering a degree of flexibility not always available with public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The availability of drivers in the 06706 area can also fluctuate, potentially leading to longer wait times, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Specialized medical transport services cater to individuals with specific medical needs, such as those requiring ambulance transport or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are essential for patients who are unable to travel independently due to medical conditions or mobility limitations. Several medical transport providers operate in the Waterbury area, including AMR (American Medical Response) and various private ambulance companies.

NEMT services, often provided by companies like LogistiCare or MTM, offer transportation to medical appointments for individuals covered by Medicaid or other insurance programs. The availability and efficiency of these services are crucial for ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to necessary healthcare. The reliability of these services, including on-time pick-ups and drop-offs, directly impacts the overall health score, as delays can lead to missed appointments and disruptions in care.

The overall health score also considers the physical environment and infrastructure. The presence of sidewalks, crosswalks, and well-maintained roads is essential for pedestrian safety and accessibility, particularly for those using public transportation or walking to healthcare facilities. The availability of parking at medical facilities is another important factor, as inadequate parking can create unnecessary stress and delays for patients.

When considering moving to Waterbury and the 06706 ZIP code, prospective residents should carefully evaluate these transportation options. The ease of access to healthcare is a critical factor in determining the overall quality of life. Understanding the commute times, the availability of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the presence of medical transport services can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 06706 is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of various factors. While the presence of major roadways and the availability of public transit provide a foundation for healthcare access, challenges remain. Traffic congestion, limited public transit frequency, the cost of ride-sharing, and the reliability of specialized medical transport services all contribute to the overall picture.

Improving the overall health score requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing options, and ensuring the reliability of medical transport services are crucial steps. Enhancing pedestrian infrastructure, improving traffic flow, and increasing the availability of affordable healthcare services are also essential. By addressing these challenges, Waterbury can create a healthier and more accessible environment for all its residents.