06901, Stamford, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06901, Stamford, Connecticut is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.83 percent of residents in 06901 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stamford Hospital with a distance of 0.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Stamford, CT (ZIP Code 06901)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Stamford, CT (ZIP Code 06901) necessitates a deep dive into the critical aspect of **transportation** and its direct impact on **healthcare access**. This analysis considers the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities, encompassing factors from drive times to the availability of public transit and alternative modes of transport. Understanding these elements is crucial for anyone **moving to Stamford** and evaluating the overall quality of life.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for navigating Stamford are the I-95, the Merritt Parkway (Route 15), and the various local roads. Driving to healthcare facilities in 06901 is generally manageable, though peak traffic can significantly impact commute times. During rush hour, the I-95, a major north-south corridor, often experiences heavy congestion, particularly around exits 6 to 9. This can transform a 10-minute drive to Stamford Hospital into a 30-minute ordeal.

The Merritt Parkway, known for its scenic beauty, offers a potentially faster alternative, though its limited access points and slower speed limits can sometimes negate the advantage. Local roads like High Ridge Road, Long Ridge Road, and Summer Street serve as crucial connectors, but their frequent traffic lights and pedestrian activity contribute to slower travel times.

For those residing in the northern parts of 06901, reaching Stamford Hospital or other healthcare providers may involve longer commutes due to distance and reliance on these local roads. Conversely, residents closer to downtown and the hospital benefit from shorter drive times, especially outside of peak hours. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities also influences the overall experience, with parking garages often adding to the overall time commitment.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Stamford boasts a robust public transit system, primarily through Metro-North Railroad and the CTtransit bus network, which plays a vital role in **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Metro-North New Haven Line provides convenient access to New York City and other CT towns. The Stamford Transportation Center, a major hub, offers connections to various bus routes, including the 301, 302, 303, 304, 311, 321, and 322.

These bus routes provide access to Stamford Hospital, many medical offices, and other healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of bus service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Delays due to traffic congestion on the local roads also affect bus schedules, potentially hindering timely arrival at medical appointments.

The CTtransit buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the accessibility of specific bus stops, particularly those located on busy streets or in areas with limited pedestrian infrastructure, should be considered.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Stamford, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, reducing the need to navigate traffic or manage parking. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services are crucial for those who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that prevent them from driving or using public transit. Ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, while NEMT providers offer transportation to scheduled medical appointments.

**Brands and Options:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the Stamford area. These include private ambulance companies, NEMT providers, and specialized transportation services for individuals with disabilities. These services often coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure timely and safe transportation to and from medical appointments.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 06901 reflects a mixed bag of factors. While Stamford offers a variety of **transportation** options, including driving, public transit, and ride-sharing, the efficiency and reliability of these options vary. Drive times can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Public transit provides a viable alternative, but frequency and accessibility limitations exist. Ride-sharing services offer convenience, but cost can be a factor.

The availability of medical transport services, including ambulances and NEMT, enhances the overall health score, particularly for individuals with specific medical needs. The presence of a major hospital, Stamford Hospital, and numerous medical offices within the ZIP code contributes positively to the overall health score.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score for **healthcare access** in 06901, several areas warrant attention. Investing in infrastructure improvements to alleviate traffic congestion on I-95 and local roads would significantly reduce drive times. Enhancing the frequency and coverage of CTtransit bus routes, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, would improve accessibility for those relying on public transit.

Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for low-income individuals could help bridge the gap in **healthcare access**. Further promoting the availability and awareness of medical transport services, including NEMT, would ensure that individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs can easily access healthcare.

Finally, providing clear and accessible information about **transportation** options, including drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing services, would empower residents to make informed decisions about how to reach their healthcare providers. For those **moving to Stamford**, a thorough understanding of these **transportation** dynamics is essential for assessing the overall quality of life and ensuring adequate **healthcare access**.