06902, Stamford, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06902, Stamford, Connecticut is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.23 percent of residents in 06902 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stamford Hospital with a distance of 0.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Stamford, CT (ZIP Code 06902)

The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 06902 in Stamford, Connecticut, provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities. This score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering **moving to Stamford**.

The geography of 06902, encompassing a significant portion of downtown Stamford and its surrounding neighborhoods, presents both advantages and challenges. Its proximity to major roadways offers rapid transit options. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact **healthcare access**, potentially delaying crucial medical appointments and treatments.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

Driving remains a dominant mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 06902. The major thoroughfares, including Interstate 95 (I-95), the Merritt Parkway (Route 15), and the primary arteries of Washington Boulevard, Tresser Boulevard, and High Ridge Road, dictate the flow of traffic.

For residents in the heart of downtown, accessing Stamford Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is generally straightforward. During off-peak hours, the drive is often less than 10 minutes, utilizing Washington Boulevard or Tresser Boulevard to reach the hospital campus. However, during rush hour, the same journey can easily stretch to 20-30 minutes, particularly if traffic is heavy on I-95.

Traveling to specialized clinics and medical offices located further afield, such as those in the northern parts of Stamford or in neighboring towns like Greenwich or Norwalk, requires careful planning. The Merritt Parkway offers a faster, albeit toll-road, alternative to I-95 for northbound travel. Southbound, the Merritt Parkway can be a viable option, but its winding nature and occasional congestion can still cause delays. High Ridge Road provides access to healthcare facilities further north, but traffic lights and local traffic can slow down travel times.

The time of day, day of the week, and even the weather significantly influence drive times. Real-time traffic updates through apps like Google Maps or Waze are essential for navigating the city's roadways and avoiding potential bottlenecks.

**Public Transit Options:**

Stamford's public transit system, operated by CTtransit, offers an alternative to driving, especially for those seeking to avoid traffic or who may not have access to a personal vehicle. Several bus routes serve the 06902 area, providing access to various medical facilities.

The primary bus routes serving the downtown area, including the 301, 302, and 304, offer connections to Stamford Hospital and numerous medical offices. These routes operate frequently during peak hours, but service frequency may decrease during evenings and weekends. The bus routes are generally accessible to individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines, including ramps, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements.

The Stamford Transportation Center, a major hub for Metro-North Railroad, provides connections to New York City and other parts of Connecticut. While the train itself doesn't directly serve many medical facilities, it can be a viable option for those traveling from outside of Stamford who need to access healthcare within the city.

The efficiency of public transit is heavily influenced by traffic conditions. While buses can utilize dedicated bus lanes on some routes, they are still subject to congestion on major roadways. Waiting times at bus stops and transfer points can also add to the overall travel time.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or taking the bus. These services are readily available in 06902, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it often provides a more direct and personalized travel experience compared to public transit.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical transport, several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services, such as MedTrans and other local providers, offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their transportation needs. These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing, but they provide a crucial service for those who cannot easily access healthcare through other means.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the "Overall Health Score" for **transportation** to healthcare in 06902 is moderately favorable. The area benefits from a well-developed road network, readily available ride-sharing services, and a public transit system. However, the score is tempered by the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, and the limitations of public transit in terms of frequency and coverage.

For individuals considering **moving to Stamford**, the following factors should be considered:

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** Living close to Stamford Hospital or other medical offices will significantly reduce commute times.
* **Access to transportation:** Assess whether you have access to a car, can use public transit, or rely on ride-sharing services.
* **Individual mobility needs:** If you have mobility limitations, ensure that your chosen transportation options are accessible and meet your specific needs.
* **Traffic patterns:** Be aware of peak traffic hours and plan your trips accordingly.
* **Cost of transportation:** Factor in the cost of driving, public transit fares, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.

The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the accessibility of healthcare in 06902. While the area offers a range of transportation options, individuals should carefully consider their personal needs and circumstances when evaluating their ability to access medical care. This detailed analysis of **healthcare access** helps residents and prospective residents navigate the complexities of **transportation** in Stamford, promoting a healthier and more informed community.