32118, Daytona Beach, Florida Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 32118, Daytona Beach, Florida is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.50 percent of residents in 32118 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Health Medical Center with a distance of 3.17 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Daytona Beach (ZIP Code 32118)

The salty air of Daytona Beach, Florida, can be a siren song, beckoning individuals seeking a coastal lifestyle. Yet, for those managing asthma, the promise of sun and sand must be tempered with a critical assessment of healthcare access. This 'Asthma Score' provides a detailed look at transportation options within ZIP code 32118, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals needing consistent asthma care. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering moving to Daytona Beach or seeking to improve their existing access to vital medical services.

ZIP code 32118 encompasses a significant portion of Daytona Beach, including the heart of the city and its surrounding residential areas. Evaluating transportation options is paramount, considering the potential impact on asthma management. Reliable and efficient transportation is not just a convenience; it's a lifeline for those requiring regular appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. This analysis delves into the practical realities of navigating the healthcare landscape within this specific area.

**Driving the Distance: A Personal Vehicle's Perspective**

For those with personal vehicles, the primary arteries of transportation are Interstate 95 (I-95) and U.S. Highway 92 (International Speedway Boulevard). I-95 provides north-south access, while U.S. 92 serves as a major east-west thoroughfare. Drive times to healthcare facilities within and around 32118 vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions.

Daytona Beach's traffic, particularly during peak hours and special events like the Daytona 500, can significantly impact travel times. A trip from the western edge of 32118 to AdventHealth Daytona Beach, a major healthcare provider, could take 15-25 minutes under normal conditions. However, during heavy traffic, this commute could easily extend to 30-45 minutes or more. The same applies to reaching other facilities like Halifax Health Medical Center of Daytona Beach.

Navigating the city's grid of local roads, including Beville Road, Ridgewood Avenue, and Nova Road, also demands attention. These roads often experience congestion, especially near commercial areas and schools. While offering alternative routes, they can also present challenges, especially for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms. Delays can exacerbate anxiety and potentially worsen breathing difficulties.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag for Asthma Sufferers**

The Volusia County Transportation Authority (Votran) operates the public transit system in Daytona Beach. Votran buses provide service throughout the city, including routes that traverse ZIP code 32118. However, the accessibility and efficiency of these routes for asthma patients require careful consideration.

Several Votran routes serve key areas within 32118. Route 1, for example, runs along U.S. 92 (International Speedway Boulevard), connecting various points of interest, including medical offices and pharmacies. Route 18 travels along Beville Road, providing access to healthcare providers located along that corridor. Route 19 offers service along Nova Road.

While Votran strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring easy access for individuals with disabilities, including those with asthma, the system has limitations. The frequency of bus service on certain routes might not be ideal for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the potential for exposure to allergens and irritants on public transit, such as dust, pollen, and other passengers' fragrances, can pose challenges for asthma sufferers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions, Varied Costs**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation alternative. These services provide on-demand access to transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several companies operate in the Daytona Beach area. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and can accommodate individuals with specific needs, including those with asthma. Companies like Medical Transport Services and others offer services tailored to patients with mobility challenges or other medical requirements. The availability and cost of these services vary, and it's crucial to research and compare options.

**Healthcare Access Points: A Critical Examination**

The availability of healthcare providers within 32118 is a crucial factor in the 'Asthma Score'. The presence of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, allergists, and emergency care facilities directly impacts the ease with which asthma patients can access necessary medical attention.

AdventHealth Daytona Beach is a major healthcare provider located in the area, offering a range of medical services, including respiratory care. Halifax Health Medical Center of Daytona Beach is another significant healthcare facility. Accessing these facilities by any mode of transportation is a crucial aspect of managing asthma effectively.

The proximity of pharmacies is equally important. Quick access to medication refills is essential for asthma management. Several pharmacies, including national chains and local pharmacies, are located within 32118, making it easier for patients to obtain their prescriptions.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The 'Asthma Score' for ZIP code 32118 is not a single number but a holistic evaluation of transportation options, healthcare access, and environmental factors. It considers the following:

* **Drive Time:** The time required to reach healthcare providers, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, reliability, and ADA-compliance of Votran routes.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The cost and convenience of these services.
* **Healthcare Provider Density:** The proximity of pulmonologists, allergists, and emergency care facilities.
* **Pharmacy Access:** The ease of obtaining medication refills.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Daytona Beach, or those already residing in 32118, this 'Asthma Score' encourages a proactive approach to healthcare access. It highlights the importance of researching transportation options, identifying healthcare providers, and developing a plan for managing asthma effectively within the local environment. Understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by the transportation landscape is paramount to ensuring consistent and timely access to the care needed to live a healthy and fulfilling life in this coastal community. The journey to better asthma management begins with informed choices and a clear understanding of the resources available.