06784, Sherman, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06784, Sherman, Connecticut is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.42 percent of residents in 06784 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Danbury Hospital with a distance of 11.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Sherman, CT (ZIP Code 06784)

The health and well-being of a community are intrinsically linked to its accessibility to healthcare services. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding Sherman, Connecticut (ZIP code 06784), assessing its impact on healthcare access. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical attention. This information is particularly valuable for those considering moving to Sherman, offering crucial insights into their future healthcare journey.

Sherman, nestled in the rolling hills of Litchfield County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural character, while offering tranquility, often translates to longer travel times and limited transportation options. The town's small population and geographical isolation necessitate a careful evaluation of how residents navigate the healthcare system. This analysis will consider these factors, providing a comprehensive understanding of the transportation infrastructure and its effect on healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Sherman are Route 39 and Route 37. These two-lane roads, while scenic, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly around the intersections with Route 39 and Route 37. Access to larger medical facilities often requires traveling on these routes.

For residents seeking specialized care, the nearest hospitals are located in Danbury, approximately 20-30 minutes away, depending on traffic conditions. This journey typically involves taking Route 39 south and merging onto I-84 East. Danbury Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is easily accessible via this route.

Travel to New Milford, another town offering healthcare services, involves a slightly shorter drive, approximately 15-20 minutes, primarily via Route 37. New Milford Hospital provides a range of medical services and is a viable option for Sherman residents.

Drive times to more distant healthcare facilities, such as those in Norwalk or Stamford, can extend to an hour or more, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This highlights the importance of considering the distance and time commitment involved in accessing specialized care. This is a critical factor when evaluating healthcare access in Sherman.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options within and around Sherman are limited. The Housatonic Area Regional Transit (HART) provides some bus services in the surrounding areas, but these routes do not directly serve Sherman. The nearest HART routes operate in Danbury, requiring residents to drive to a designated stop and transfer.

The lack of direct public transit options poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of a robust public transportation network can create a barrier to healthcare access, forcing reliance on alternative methods.

Furthermore, the HART system, while offering some accessibility features, may not fully meet the needs of all individuals with disabilities. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, including accessible ramps, lifts, and audio-visual announcements, should be carefully assessed when evaluating the suitability of any public transit option.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Sherman area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, including but not limited to, AMR (American Medical Response) and LifeStar.

These services, while providing a valuable resource, can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability and cost of medical transport services should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Sherman (ZIP code 06784) is moderately challenging. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose significant barriers for some.

The lack of robust public transit options, combined with the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability, creates challenges for individuals without personal vehicles. The cost and availability of medical transport services also need to be factored into the overall assessment.

For those considering moving to Sherman, it is crucial to carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes (if applicable), ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

Furthermore, the development of improved public transportation options, including expanded HART service or the implementation of a local shuttle service, could significantly enhance healthcare access for Sherman residents. The town could also explore partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments.

In conclusion, while Sherman offers access to healthcare facilities, the transportation landscape presents challenges that can impact healthcare access. A proactive approach, involving both individual planning and community-level initiatives, is essential to ensure that all residents can readily access the medical care they need. The quality of life in Sherman is, in part, determined by the ease with which residents can navigate the transportation infrastructure to receive the healthcare they require.