32725, Deltona, Florida Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 32725, Deltona, Florida is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.31 percent of residents in 32725 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Fish Memorial with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deltona (ZIP Code 32725)

Moving to Deltona, Florida (ZIP Code 32725) with arthritis requires careful consideration of healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the ease of accessing rheumatology and related medical services, factoring in transportation options, drive times, and public transit accessibility. Understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining quality of life and managing this chronic condition.

The score considers various elements, beginning with the primary mode of transportation: the automobile. Deltona, a sprawling suburban city, is heavily reliant on personal vehicles. Drive times are a critical component of the score, directly impacting the patient's ability to attend appointments and receive timely care. We must consider the major thoroughfares and local roads that shape the landscape of healthcare access.

Interstate 4 (I-4), the major artery connecting Deltona to Orlando and Daytona Beach, is a double-edged sword. While it provides a direct route to several healthcare facilities, it is notorious for heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. This can significantly extend drive times, exacerbating pain and fatigue associated with arthritis. For example, a trip to the Florida Hospital Celebration Health, a facility known for its specialized rheumatology services, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour during rush hour, depending on the starting point within Deltona.

US-17/92, a major north-south route, offers an alternative, albeit slower, route to many medical offices. This road is often congested, with numerous traffic lights and commercial activity. Driving to a rheumatologist's office in Sanford, a common destination for Deltona residents, via US-17/92 could take 30-45 minutes. Local roads, such as Howland Boulevard and Doyle Road, provide access to local clinics and physician's offices. These routes are generally less congested but may require navigating residential areas, adding to the overall travel time.

The "Arthritis Score" considers the availability of public transportation, which is a crucial factor for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. The Volusia County Transportation (Votran) provides bus service within Deltona and to neighboring cities. However, the coverage is limited, and the routes are often infrequent. The primary routes serving Deltona are the 20, 21, and 22.

Votran buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, is a significant limitation. The wait times between buses can be considerable, adding to the overall travel time and potentially causing discomfort for arthritis sufferers. A trip to a rheumatologist in Sanford via Votran could involve multiple transfers and take over an hour, making it a less desirable option for many.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services are readily available in Deltona, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. However, the convenience and door-to-door service make it a valuable alternative for those unable to drive or use public transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, are also available. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Senior Transportation Services offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. The cost of these services is typically higher than ride-sharing, but they provide a higher level of care and support, which is crucial for some arthritis patients.

Healthcare access is further complicated by the availability of rheumatologists in the area. While there are several rheumatology practices in the surrounding cities, the demand for appointments can be high, leading to longer wait times. The "Arthritis Score" takes into account the proximity of rheumatology practices, the availability of appointments, and the patient's ability to navigate the transportation options to reach these facilities.

The "Arthritis Score" is not merely a numerical value; it is an assessment of the overall accessibility of healthcare. It considers the patient's individual needs, mobility limitations, and financial constraints. The score is designed to empower individuals with arthritis to make informed decisions about where to live and how to access the care they need.

When moving to Deltona, individuals with arthritis should prioritize a location that provides easy access to healthcare. Proximity to major roads like I-4 and US-17/92 is essential, but so is the availability of alternative transportation options, such as public transit and ride-sharing.

The "Arthritis Score" emphasizes the importance of planning and preparation. Before moving, individuals should research the availability of rheumatologists, the drive times to their offices, and the accessibility of transportation options. They should also consider the availability of support services, such as physical therapy and pain management clinics.

The "Arthritis Score" encourages a proactive approach to healthcare management. By understanding the transportation challenges and healthcare access limitations, individuals with arthritis can make informed decisions and take steps to maintain their quality of life in Deltona. This includes exploring all available options and creating a personalized plan that meets their specific needs.