06755, Gaylordsville, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06755, Gaylordsville, Connecticut is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.08 percent of residents in 06755 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sharon Hospital with a distance of 16.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Gaylordsville, CT (ZIP Code 06755)

The picturesque town of Gaylordsville, Connecticut, nestled in the rolling hills of Litchfield County, offers a serene escape for many. But beneath the idyllic surface lies a critical consideration for prospective residents: **healthcare access**. This report provides an “Overall Health Score” for the 06755 ZIP code, focusing on the crucial aspect of **transportation** to medical facilities. We analyze drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture for anyone **moving to Gaylordsville**.

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite metric, factoring in the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare providers. It considers the time, cost, and accessibility of various **transportation** options. Factors like the availability of ADA-compliant services and the presence of specialized medical transport significantly influence the score. A higher score indicates greater ease of **healthcare access**, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Gaylordsville's relative remoteness significantly impacts **healthcare access**. The primary routes for accessing medical facilities involve navigating the winding roads and highways of western Connecticut. The most direct route to major hospitals and clinics often involves a drive south on Route 7. This scenic but often congested highway becomes a vital artery for **healthcare access**. Depending on the destination and traffic conditions, travel times can vary significantly.

For instance, a trip to Danbury Hospital, a major regional medical center, typically requires a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes via Route 7. This estimate assumes normal traffic flow. However, peak hours, especially during the morning and evening commutes, can extend travel times considerably. Accidents or road closures can further exacerbate delays, making timely **healthcare access** a concern.

Alternatively, residents might consider traveling east on Route 341. This route offers access to healthcare facilities in New Milford, a shorter distance than Danbury. However, the quality of medical services available in New Milford may be less extensive than those found in Danbury. The choice of route therefore depends on the specific medical needs and the urgency of the situation.

Other local roads, such as Kent Road and Bulls Bridge Road, provide alternative routes. However, these roads are generally narrower and more winding, potentially increasing travel times and posing challenges for emergency vehicles. Residents should be aware of these variations when considering **healthcare access** from Gaylordsville.

**Public Transit:**

Public transit options in Gaylordsville are limited. The availability of buses and trains is a crucial element in the **healthcare access** equation. The Greater Danbury Transit District (GDT) operates a bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules are not ideally suited for direct access to medical facilities from Gaylordsville.

The GDT does not have a dedicated route that serves Gaylordsville directly. Residents must typically travel to a central hub, such as New Milford or Danbury, to connect with the GDT bus network. This initial travel step adds significant time and complexity to the journey, making public transit a less convenient option for many.

Furthermore, the GDT bus system may not offer the frequency or flexibility required for routine medical appointments. The schedules may not align with the availability of appointments, potentially leading to missed appointments or prolonged waiting times. The lack of ADA-compliant features on all routes could also present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has provided an alternative **transportation** option, but their availability in Gaylordsville is variable. While these services are generally accessible in the Danbury area, their presence in Gaylordsville may be less consistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier to **healthcare access**. The fares for trips to medical facilities can be substantial, especially for longer distances. This can be a significant financial burden for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer specialized **transportation** for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including Careline and AMR.

These services can be invaluable for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or rely on public transit. However, they can be costly, and prior arrangements are usually required. The availability of these services in Gaylordsville is a significant factor in the overall **healthcare access** score.

**Healthcare Access Challenges:**

The remoteness of Gaylordsville presents several challenges to **healthcare access**. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services can make it difficult for residents to reach medical facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles increases the risk of delays due to traffic or road closures.

The cost of **transportation** can also be a barrier. The expense of driving, ride-sharing, or medical transport can add significantly to the overall cost of healthcare. This can be a particular concern for individuals with chronic illnesses or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The lack of local healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians or specialists, necessitates travel to larger towns and cities. This further increases travel times and the complexity of accessing healthcare. The availability of urgent care facilities in the immediate vicinity is also limited, potentially requiring residents to travel longer distances in case of emergencies.

**Moving to Gaylordsville and Healthcare Considerations:**

For those **moving to Gaylordsville**, careful consideration of **healthcare access** is essential. Prospective residents should assess their individual medical needs and the availability of **transportation** options. Individuals with chronic illnesses or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare from Gaylordsville.

It is advisable to research the locations of medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Contacting local healthcare providers to inquire about appointment availability and travel times is also recommended.

Prospective residents should also consider the potential costs associated with **transportation** to medical facilities. The expenses of driving, ride-sharing, or medical transport can significantly impact the overall cost of healthcare.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Gaylordsville (ZIP Code 06755) is moderate. While the town offers a tranquil setting, the limited **transportation** options and the relative distance to medical facilities present challenges. Residents must rely primarily on personal vehicles or navigate the complexities of ride-sharing and medical transport services. While medical transport is available, the cost and need for pre-arrangement are factors. The lack of robust public transit options further complicates the **healthcare access** landscape. Individuals **moving to Gaylordsville** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and the feasibility of accessing medical services before making a decision.