06256, North Windham, Connecticut Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 06256, North Windham, Connecticut is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.95 percent of residents in 06256 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Windham Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.04 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 06256

The prospect of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be daunting, and access to timely and quality healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up assesses the accessibility of prostate cancer care in ZIP code 06256 (North Windham, Connecticut), focusing on the critical element of **transportation**. Understanding the ease of **healthcare access** is essential, especially for individuals considering **moving to North Windham** or already residing there. We'll examine the available options, from driving times to public transit and ride-sharing services, painting a comprehensive picture of navigating the healthcare landscape.

The primary healthcare facilities serving residents of 06256 are located in the surrounding towns and cities, necessitating travel. The most common destination for specialized care, including urology and oncology, is likely Windham Hospital, a short drive away. Reaching Windham Hospital from various points within 06256 involves navigating a network of roads.

For those residing in the northern reaches of North Windham, a drive along Route 6 is the most direct route. The journey to Windham Hospital, located just off Route 6, typically takes between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on traffic. This short commute provides relatively quick **healthcare access** for those living in this area.

Residents in the southern and eastern parts of 06256 might find Route 14 a more convenient option. This route offers a slightly longer drive, potentially 10 to 15 minutes, to reach Windham Hospital. The drive time can vary depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the time of day, highlighting the importance of planning and considering peak traffic hours.

Further afield, access to more specialized cancer centers, such as those in Hartford or New Haven, requires significantly longer travel times. These trips, essential for advanced treatments and consultations, could involve driving on I-384, I-84, and I-91. The drive to Hartford, for example, could take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, while New Haven might be a 1.5- to 2-hour journey, depending on traffic conditions. This extended travel time underscores the potential challenges in **healthcare access** for residents of 06256, particularly those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing mobility limitations.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its availability in 06256 is limited. The 915 and 916 routes, operated by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), provide some connectivity to surrounding towns. These buses, while offering a more affordable **transportation** option, may not be ideal for frequent medical appointments.

The 915 route, for instance, runs along Route 6, offering a potential connection to Windham Hospital. However, the frequency of these routes is limited, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving due to multiple stops. This factor can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for patients with time constraints or those needing to conserve energy.

The 916 route provides service to Willimantic, offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities in that area. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility issues. CTDOT strives to ensure accessibility, but it's essential to confirm ADA features and schedule availability in advance.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing another **transportation** option. These services offer a degree of convenience, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas, can also be a concern.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Transit and CareLink provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are specifically tailored to the needs of patients, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. However, it is crucial to check insurance coverage and pre-book these services to ensure availability.

The **transportation** landscape in 06256 presents a mixed bag. While Windham Hospital offers relatively easy access, specialized care often requires longer travel times. The limited public transit options, combined with the cost of ride-sharing and the need for pre-planning for medical transport, underscore the challenges in **healthcare access**.

For individuals considering **moving to North Windham**, it is vital to assess their healthcare needs and consider the **transportation** implications. Those with existing health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the travel times and available options. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the need for pre-booking medical transport services is crucial for ensuring timely and convenient access to care.

The prostate cancer score for 06256, therefore, is nuanced. While Windham Hospital provides accessible local care, access to specialized treatments and advanced facilities requires significant travel. The availability of public transit is limited, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services can increase costs and logistical challenges. The score would reflect the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options to ensure optimal **healthcare access**, especially for individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer.