06082, Enfield, Connecticut Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 06082, Enfield, Connecticut is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.16 percent of residents in 06082 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnson Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.98 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Healthcare Access in Enfield, CT (ZIP Code 06082)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a condition like prostate cancer, is a critical factor impacting patient outcomes. In Enfield, Connecticut (ZIP code 06082), access to timely and appropriate medical care is shaped by a complex interplay of transportation options. This write-up provides a detailed assessment of these avenues, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, ultimately aiming to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital healthcare services. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Enfield, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health.

Enfield, a town nestled in the northern reaches of Connecticut, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While the town itself boasts certain medical facilities, the availability of specialized prostate cancer care, including advanced diagnostics, surgical interventions, and radiation therapy, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. This reliance on external facilities underscores the importance of understanding the transportation infrastructure within and surrounding the area.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Enfield is the personal vehicle. The major roadways serving the area are Interstate 91 (I-91), Route 5 (Enfield Street), and Route 190 (Hazard Avenue). These arteries are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities both within Enfield and in neighboring towns and cities.

For residents needing primary care or basic urological services, Enfield's local clinics and hospitals are generally accessible within a short drive. However, for specialized prostate cancer care, the situation becomes more complex. The closest comprehensive cancer centers, offering advanced treatments, are located in Hartford and Springfield, Massachusetts.

Driving to Hartford, the state capital, typically involves a journey south on I-91. During off-peak hours, this drive can be completed in approximately 25-35 minutes, a relatively manageable timeframe. However, during rush hour, particularly on weekday mornings and evenings, the commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour, depending on traffic congestion. The potential for delays necessitates careful planning, especially for patients undergoing treatment or frequent appointments.

Accessing Springfield, Massachusetts, requires a northbound journey on I-91. The drive time is similar to Hartford, ranging from 25-40 minutes during non-peak hours. However, this route also experiences significant traffic, particularly near the Massachusetts border and around Springfield itself. Patients should factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments at facilities in Springfield.

The condition of the roads and the availability of parking at the healthcare facilities also impact the drive-time experience. Road maintenance and construction can cause unforeseen delays, while the availability of convenient and affordable parking is crucial for patients, particularly those with mobility issues or undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Enfield is primarily provided by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and the Pioneer Valley TransitPioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA), which serves the Springfield, Massachusetts area. The availability of public transit offers an alternative for those who do not drive or prefer not to drive.

The CTDOT operates several bus routes that serve Enfield, connecting the town to Hartford and other nearby communities. While these routes provide a valuable service, they often involve longer travel times and potential transfers, which can be challenging for patients. The buses are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, may be limited, potentially restricting access to healthcare appointments outside of standard business hours.

The PVTA provides bus service to Springfield, Massachusetts, offering access to healthcare facilities in that city. This option is particularly relevant for residents seeking specialized cancer care. However, similar to the CTDOT routes, travel times can be extended, and transfers may be required. Careful planning is essential to ensure timely arrival at appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services are readily available in Enfield, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in Enfield. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and wheelchair accessibility. While these services offer a valuable solution for patients with specific needs, they often require pre-booking and may have associated costs. Several medical transport brands operate in the area, and patients should research options and compare prices to find the best fit for their needs.

**Prostate Cancer Score and Conclusion:**

Evaluating the transportation options in Enfield, CT (06082), the "Prostate Cancer Score" reflects a mixed picture. While the town benefits from relatively short drive times to major medical centers during off-peak hours, traffic congestion during rush hour can significantly impact travel times. Public transportation, while available, presents challenges in terms of travel time and frequency. Ride-sharing and medical transportation offer viable alternatives, but cost and pre-booking requirements must be considered.

The overall score would be moderate, acknowledging the accessibility challenges while recognizing the availability of multiple transportation options. Individuals considering moving to Enfield, or those already residing there, should carefully assess their transportation needs and preferences when planning for healthcare access. Proactive planning, including understanding traffic patterns, exploring public transit options, and researching ride-sharing and medical transport services, is essential for ensuring timely and convenient access to prostate cancer care. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining a high quality of life and improving health outcomes.