32128, Port Orange, Florida Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 32128, Port Orange, Florida is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.56 percent of residents in 32128 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Health Medical Center with a distance of 7.90 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 32128

For individuals considering a move to Port Orange, Florida, and specifically ZIP Code 32128, understanding the accessibility of healthcare, especially for those managing arthritis, is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the intricacies of transportation options available, acknowledging the challenges that arthritis can present, impacting mobility and endurance. We'll analyze drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

The primary concern for anyone with arthritis is minimizing travel time and physical exertion. The ideal scenario involves easily accessible healthcare facilities offering specialized arthritis care, including rheumatologists, physical therapists, and pain management specialists. However, the reality of healthcare access often hinges on the availability and efficiency of transportation.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Port Orange, nestled along the Atlantic coast, offers a relatively manageable geography. However, the reliance on personal vehicles is substantial. The primary thoroughfare is **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, which runs north-south, providing quick access to Daytona Beach and beyond. Accessing healthcare in Daytona Beach via I-95 is typically a straightforward endeavor. For example, driving to AdventHealth Daytona Beach from central Port Orange, using I-95, should take approximately 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

**U.S. Highway 1 (US-1)**, a major north-south artery, offers an alternative route, although it tends to be more congested, especially during peak hours. Driving from Port Orange to Halifax Health Medical Center of Daytona Beach via US-1 could take 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is particularly relevant for those residing closer to US-1 in Port Orange.

Local roads, such as **Dunlawton Avenue** and **Taylor Road**, serve as crucial connectors within Port Orange and to neighboring areas. While these roads offer convenient access to local clinics and pharmacies, they can become congested during rush hour, potentially adding to the discomfort of someone with arthritis. The time it takes to navigate these local routes can vary considerably depending on the time of day.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation in Port Orange, and Volusia County in general, presents significant limitations. The **Volusia County Transportation Authority (Votran)** provides bus services, but routes and frequency are not always conducive to healthcare appointments, especially for individuals with mobility limitations.

Votran Route 18 serves Port Orange, connecting it to Daytona Beach. However, the route frequency is limited, and the travel time can be considerably longer than driving, potentially exacerbating arthritis symptoms. While Votran buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, the overall system is not designed for frequent, convenient healthcare access.

The lack of extensive public transportation options underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions for residents of 32128, especially those with arthritis. The reliance on personal vehicles or other forms of transportation is a key factor when considering healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Options**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** offer a convenient, on-demand transportation option. They can be particularly helpful for individuals with arthritis who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Costs can also accumulate quickly, particularly with frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as **CareRide** and **Firstat Transportation**, cater specifically to the needs of individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While medical transport services can be a valuable resource, they typically require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing or public transportation.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Consideration**

The "Arthritis Score" for 32128 highlights the importance of considering transportation options when evaluating healthcare access. While Port Orange offers a relatively accessible location, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport must be carefully weighed.

For individuals with arthritis, the ideal scenario involves a combination of factors: a convenient location of healthcare providers, readily available transportation options, and a support system that can assist with appointments. The choice of where to live and how to access healthcare is a personal one, and the "Arthritis Score" aims to provide a clear understanding of the transportation landscape.

**Factors to Consider When Moving to Port Orange**

When contemplating a move to Port Orange (32128), individuals with arthritis should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and consider the availability and reliability of transportation options. Researching the location of rheumatologists, physical therapists, and other relevant specialists is crucial.

Evaluating the accessibility of these providers via various transportation modes is equally important. This includes assessing drive times, the feasibility of using Votran, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport.

The "Arthritis Score" for 32128 is not a definitive rating, but rather a framework for evaluating healthcare access. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities in order to make informed decisions.

**The Importance of Planning**

For those considering a move to Port Orange, planning is essential. Contacting healthcare providers in advance to inquire about their accessibility, considering the availability of transportation options, and understanding the potential costs involved will help ensure a smoother transition and better healthcare access.

The goal is to minimize the physical and emotional toll of managing arthritis while maximizing access to quality healthcare. By carefully considering the transportation landscape in 32128, individuals can make informed decisions that promote their well-being and quality of life.