06107, West Hartford, Connecticut Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 06107, West Hartford, Connecticut is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.74 percent of residents in 06107 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is John Dempsey Hospital with a distance of 2.44 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 06107

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is a complex one. This assessment, focusing on ZIP code 06107 (Hartford, CT), examines the accessibility of prostate cancer-related healthcare, considering various transportation options and their impact on patient experience. This analysis is especially relevant for individuals considering moving to West Hartford, a town known for its excellent healthcare facilities, as 06107 is a neighboring area.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative evaluation of the transportation landscape and its implications for accessing prostate cancer care. It weighs factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the presence of medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities patients in 06107 face when seeking diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Arterials**

For many residents of 06107, the most direct route to healthcare facilities is by car. The primary arteries for accessing hospitals and specialized clinics are Interstate 84 (I-84) and Interstate 91 (I-91). I-84 provides east-west access, connecting to hospitals in Hartford and West Hartford. I-91, running north-south, offers access to facilities in Hartford and beyond.

Navigating these highways during peak hours can be a significant challenge. Morning and evening commutes often result in heavy traffic, increasing drive times and potentially causing stress for patients. Roads like Farmington Avenue, Asylum Avenue, and Albany Avenue are critical for local travel, but these can also experience congestion. The proximity of 06107 to West Hartford, with its established healthcare infrastructure, is a significant advantage.

Drive times to major healthcare providers, such as Hartford Hospital (80 Seymour St, Hartford, CT 06106) and Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center (114 Woodland St, Hartford, CT 06105), can vary significantly. On a clear day, a trip to Hartford Hospital might take 10-15 minutes, while Saint Francis could be reached in a similar timeframe. However, during rush hour, these times could easily double, impacting appointments and treatment schedules. The journey to facilities in West Hartford, like those along Park Road or in the Elmwood section, is generally quicker, often within a 10-minute drive, enhancing healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

The availability of public transportation, primarily through the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and its local bus service, provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The CTtransit system serves the Hartford area, offering several routes that traverse 06107 and connect to major hospitals and medical centers.

Routes like the 60, 62, and 64 are crucial for reaching healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be a limiting factor, particularly during evenings and weekends. Waiting times between buses can be substantial, and the overall travel time, including transfers, can be significantly longer than driving.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. CTtransit buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the physical limitations of bus stops, such as lack of shelters or uneven sidewalks, can pose challenges. For prostate cancer patients, especially those undergoing treatment, the comfort and convenience of transportation are paramount.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more convenient option compared to public transit, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. These services are readily available in 06107, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some patients, particularly those requiring frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, are specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and specialized vehicles. While offering a higher level of care, medical transport services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Evaluating Healthcare Access: A Holistic Approach**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 06107 is not a simple metric. It's an assessment that considers the interplay of various transportation options and their impact on patients. The presence of multiple transportation options, including highways, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides a degree of flexibility. However, the efficiency and affordability of these options vary considerably.

The proximity to West Hartford, with its established healthcare facilities, is a significant advantage for residents of 06107. This proximity reduces travel times and expands the range of healthcare providers available. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further enhances healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or specific medical needs.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to West Hartford or residing in 06107, several factors warrant careful consideration. Assess the availability of healthcare providers specializing in prostate cancer care, including urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists. Research the specific transportation options available, considering drive times, public transit routes, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport.

For patients already diagnosed with prostate cancer, explore all available transportation options and plan appointments accordingly. Consider the potential impact of traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit. Investigate the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist with coordinating transportation and navigating the healthcare system.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 06107 highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for medical appointments, patients can navigate the challenges and receive the timely and effective care they deserve. The move to West Hartford is a positive consideration, as the healthcare access is greatly improved by the shorter travel times and greater availability of healthcare providers.