06794, Washington Depot, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06794, Washington Depot, Connecticut is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.90 percent of residents in 06794 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Charlotte Hungerford Hospital with a distance of 14.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Washington Depot (06794)

Washington Depot, Connecticut, a picturesque haven nestled in the Litchfield Hills, offers a tranquil lifestyle that often draws those seeking respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. However, the idyllic charm of this community must be balanced against the practicalities of daily living, particularly when considering access to healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 06794, focusing on the crucial aspect of **transportation** to and from medical facilities. It examines the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, to determine the ease and efficiency with which residents can access the care they need. This information is vital for anyone **moving to Washington Depot**, ensuring they understand the realities of **healthcare access** in their new home.

The foundation of healthcare access in Washington Depot rests on the ability to navigate the surrounding roadways. The primary arteries for travel are Route 47, Route 109, and Route 202. These roads, while scenic, can experience delays, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. The drive to the nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities in surrounding towns, such as New Milford, Danbury, and Waterbury, can be time-consuming, requiring careful planning.

The primary route to New Milford Hospital, a crucial healthcare provider for many residents, involves navigating Route 202 and then Route 7. The drive, approximately 12 miles, can take between 20 to 30 minutes under ideal conditions. However, traffic congestion, especially near the intersection of Route 7 and Bridge Street in New Milford, can significantly extend this travel time.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Danbury Hospital, a larger facility with a broader range of services, is approximately 25 miles away, typically requiring a 45- to 60-minute drive via Route 202 and Interstate 84. The journey to Waterbury Hospital, located about 30 miles away, can take a similar amount of time, often utilizing Route 6 and Route 8. These longer distances underscore the importance of reliable **transportation** and the potential challenges faced by those with mobility limitations or chronic health conditions.

Public transit options in the area are limited. The state of Connecticut does offer bus service, but service to and from Washington Depot is extremely limited. The primary provider is the Northwest Connecticut Transit District. Routes 10 and 11 serve nearby towns, but they do not directly service Washington Depot. This lack of robust public **transportation** presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who cannot or prefer not to drive, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who do not own a vehicle. The absence of regular bus routes necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical **transportation** for essential medical appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of the few bus routes that serve the area is a critical consideration. While the Northwest Connecticut Transit District strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, the limited frequency of service and the longer travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. For those reliant on public transit, the need to carefully plan trips and account for potential delays becomes even more pronounced.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option, though their availability and cost can vary. While these services provide a convenient means of accessing healthcare, they are not always readily available in rural areas like Washington Depot, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Residents must weigh the convenience of ride-sharing against the potential expense and the uncertainty of availability.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, provide another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies like Medstar, Careline, and American Medical Response offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services are particularly valuable for those who cannot drive or require assistance with mobility. However, these services come at a cost, and the availability of specific providers may vary depending on the location and the type of service required.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Washington Depot (06794) is moderately challenging. While the scenic beauty and tranquil lifestyle are undeniable draws, the limited public **transportation** options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for lengthy drive times to medical facilities present significant hurdles. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** provides some relief, but the cost and availability of these services must be carefully considered.

For individuals **moving to Washington Depot**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the practicality of relying on personal vehicles or the availability of alternative **transportation** options. Prospective residents should also research the specific medical facilities and specialists they may need to access and factor in the travel times and associated costs.

The overall health score is also impacted by the availability of local healthcare providers. Washington Depot has a limited number of primary care physicians and specialists. Residents may need to travel to neighboring towns for specialized care, further compounding the challenges of **transportation**. This underscores the importance of proactive healthcare planning and the need to establish relationships with medical providers in advance of any health emergencies.

In conclusion, while Washington Depot offers a desirable quality of life, the challenges associated with **healthcare access** cannot be ignored. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for lengthy travel times to medical facilities require careful consideration. For those **moving to Washington Depot**, a realistic assessment of their **transportation** needs and a proactive approach to healthcare planning are crucial for ensuring their well-being. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** provides some mitigation, but the cost and availability of these services should be factored into the overall health score. The overall health score is moderately challenging.