06770, Naugatuck, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06770, Naugatuck, Connecticut is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.78 percent of residents in 06770 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 4.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06770

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when considering a move, especially to a new community like Naugatuck, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06770). This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” based on the ease of transportation to medical facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. This score is a crucial element in assessing the overall well-being and quality of life within this specific geographical area.

The overall health score for 06770 is **moderate**. This assessment acknowledges the presence of healthcare facilities within a reasonable radius, while also considering the limitations of transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The score reflects a balance between the available resources and the challenges faced by residents in accessing them.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for navigating Naugatuck and connecting to surrounding healthcare providers are Route 8 and Route 63. These roadways are critical for residents, especially those needing to travel to hospitals and specialized clinics. Rush hour, however, can significantly impact commute times.

For instance, a trip from the center of Naugatuck to Saint Mary's Hospital in Waterbury, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during peak hours, particularly on Route 8, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour, impacting the speed of healthcare access.

Similarly, accessing Griffin Hospital in Derby, another significant healthcare facility, involves navigating Route 8 South. This journey generally takes about 25-35 minutes, but again, traffic can be a major factor. The availability of ample parking at these facilities is generally good, but the time spent in transit remains a key consideration.

**Public Transit Landscape:**

The availability of public transportation in 06770 is a significant factor in the overall health score. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) operates bus routes that serve Naugatuck. These routes, while providing a vital service, are limited in their frequency and coverage.

The primary bus routes serving Naugatuck are operated by the Connecticut Transit (CTtransit) system. Route 42, for example, offers service connecting Naugatuck to Waterbury, providing access to Saint Mary's Hospital and other medical facilities in that city. However, the frequency of this route, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

The accessibility of public transit is further complicated by the lack of extensive ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on all buses. While CTtransit strives to provide accessible services, the availability of wheelchair lifts and other accommodations is not always guaranteed on every route or at every stop. This presents a challenge for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Naugatuck, offering an alternative transportation option, especially for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in the area. Companies like Med-Ride and CareRide offer specialized transportation, often equipped with wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. While these services can be invaluable, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Impact on Healthcare Access:**

The combination of these transportation factors significantly impacts healthcare access for residents of 06770. While the presence of local medical practices and the proximity to regional hospitals like Saint Mary's and Griffin Hospital are positive aspects, the limitations of public transit and the potential for long commute times, especially during peak hours, can create challenges.

Individuals without personal vehicles, those with mobility limitations, and those relying on public transit face the greatest obstacles. This can lead to delayed medical appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and a potential decline in overall health outcomes.

**Considerations for Moving to Naugatuck:**

For those considering moving to Naugatuck, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the availability of healthcare services relative to their chosen location within the ZIP code.

Families with young children or elderly relatives should pay particular attention to the accessibility of medical facilities and the ease of transportation options. Investigating the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and the frequency of public transit routes is highly recommended.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 06770 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of healthcare facilities and the availability of ride-sharing services offer some advantages, the limitations of public transit and the potential for long commute times create challenges. Understanding these factors is essential for residents and prospective movers alike, ensuring informed decisions regarding healthcare access and overall well-being. The development of improved public transportation infrastructure, coupled with increased availability of accessible ride-sharing services, would undoubtedly enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve the quality of life for residents of Naugatuck. The future of healthcare access hinges on improving transportation.