06084, Tolland, Connecticut Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 06084, Tolland, Connecticut is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.58 percent of residents in 06084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rockville General Hospital with a distance of 4.32 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06084**

The quaint town of Tolland, Connecticut, nestled within ZIP code 06084, offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as prostate cancer, the ease of transportation becomes a critical factor. This write-up analyzes the commute to healthcare options for residents of Tolland, focusing on prostate cancer treatment centers and their accessibility via various transportation modes. We will examine drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment for this specific location.

The primary challenge for residents of Tolland lies in its relatively isolated location. While the town boasts a peaceful atmosphere, it lacks immediate access to comprehensive cancer treatment facilities. This necessitates travel to larger towns and cities, significantly impacting healthcare access. The most direct route to specialized care often involves driving.

For residents of 06084, the most common routes to major healthcare providers involve navigating the local road network. The primary arteries for transportation are **Interstate 84 (I-84)**, which provides access to Hartford and Danbury, and **Route 195**, a more local thoroughfare connecting Tolland to neighboring towns and services. The drive time to the **Hartford Hospital Cancer Center**, a leading facility, can vary depending on traffic, typically taking between 30 to 45 minutes via I-84 West. Similarly, **Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center** in Hartford is accessible via I-84 West, with a comparable drive time.

Further afield, the **Yale New Haven Hospital Smilow Cancer Hospital**, a renowned institution, presents a more significant commute. The journey involves traveling south on I-84 to the **Merritt Parkway (Route 15)**, then onto the **Connecticut Turnpike (I-95)**, with a total drive time exceeding an hour and a half, potentially longer during peak hours. This extended travel time highlights the importance of efficient transportation planning for patients undergoing treatment.

Public transportation options in Tolland are limited. The **Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT)** operates bus services, but the routes serving Tolland are infrequent and primarily designed for local travel. The primary bus route serving Tolland is the **902** route, which provides limited service to Hartford. The **902** route offers ADA-accessible features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the infrequent schedules and the need for transfers to reach specialized cancer centers in Hartford make this a less-than-ideal option for regular medical appointments. Public transit, therefore, is not a viable solution for many patients.

Ride-share services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Tolland, offering a more flexible transportation alternative. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be substantial, especially for frequent trips to and from treatment centers. Moreover, the availability of drivers can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. While ride-sharing provides a convenient option, it may not be a sustainable solution for patients with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance for patients requiring assistance. Several companies offer medical transport services in the area, including **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Life Star**. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services offer crucial support for patients with mobility limitations, they can be expensive and often require advance booking.

For residents considering moving to Tolland, the healthcare access landscape should be a crucial consideration. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, the distance to specialized cancer treatment centers poses a significant challenge. Patients with prostate cancer must factor in the time and cost of transportation when making their healthcare choices.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 06084 reflects the challenges faced by residents. The score considers the drive times to major cancer centers, the limitations of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-share services, and the accessibility of medical transport options. The score will be lower than areas with more accessible healthcare facilities.

The score would be negatively impacted by the following factors: the distance to major cancer centers, the lack of frequent public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the need for advance booking for medical transport. Conversely, the score would be positively influenced by factors such as the availability of accessible transportation options, the presence of local medical facilities, and the affordability of transportation services.

For individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer, the commute to healthcare becomes a daily reality. The stress of traveling, the potential for traffic delays, and the financial burden of transportation can significantly impact the patient's well-being. Therefore, when considering healthcare access in 06084, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges and to develop strategies to mitigate their impact.

The best approach involves careful planning, including establishing relationships with healthcare providers, exploring transportation options, and budgeting for transportation costs. Patients should also consider the possibility of utilizing telehealth services, which can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 06084 serves as a reminder of the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While Tolland offers a desirable lifestyle, the distance to specialized cancer treatment centers presents a significant challenge. By understanding the transportation options available and planning accordingly, residents can navigate the complexities of healthcare access and improve their chances of successful treatment.