32189, Satsuma, Florida Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 32189, Satsuma, Florida is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.34 percent of residents in 32189 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Putnam Hospital with a distance of 7.04 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Satsuma, Florida (ZIP Code 32189)

The journey to healthcare in Satsuma, Florida (ZIP Code 32189) presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing asthma. This analysis, the "Asthma Score," considers the various transportation options available, their accessibility, and the potential impact on individuals seeking medical care, especially during an asthma exacerbation. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Satsuma, ensuring they can effectively manage their health.

The primary concern revolves around the limited availability of transportation options. Satsuma, a small, rural community, lacks the robust public transit infrastructure found in larger metropolitan areas. This dependence on personal vehicles significantly influences the Asthma Score, particularly concerning drive times to essential healthcare facilities.

The closest major healthcare provider is AdventHealth Palm Coast, located approximately 25 miles east. The most direct route involves navigating **US-100** east, a two-lane highway that can experience traffic, especially during peak hours. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes roughly 35 to 45 minutes. However, unexpected delays due to accidents or road work can significantly extend this time, potentially exacerbating an asthma episode if immediate medical attention is required.

Another healthcare option is Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine, approximately 40 miles northeast. The journey involves traveling on **US-17** north, then connecting to **I-95** south. This route, while potentially offering a faster overall travel time under optimal conditions, is subject to the unpredictability of interstate traffic. Delays on **I-95**, particularly during tourist season or due to accidents, can be substantial. The trip could take upwards of an hour, a considerable duration when breathing is compromised.

Public transportation options are extremely limited. The Putnam County Transportation Department (PCTD) offers a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. This service, while theoretically available to residents of Satsuma, may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. The availability of vehicles with ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, which can be a factor for those with severe asthma. The reliability and timeliness of this service are critical considerations when evaluating healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in larger urban centers. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with chronic conditions requiring frequent medical appointments. The Asthma Score must reflect the inherent uncertainty of relying on ride-sharing for critical healthcare transportation.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available. However, these services come at a significant cost, and their availability depends on the severity of the medical need. The response time of emergency medical services (EMS) is a critical factor in asthma management. Delays in reaching a healthcare facility can have serious consequences. The Asthma Score must acknowledge the potential for delays in emergency medical response due to the rural nature of the area.

Considering the limited transportation options, the Asthma Score for Satsuma is negatively impacted. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with asthma. The absence of readily accessible, reliable, and affordable transportation can hinder timely access to medical care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.

The Asthma Score must also factor in the availability of pharmacies and urgent care facilities within the immediate vicinity of Satsuma. While pharmacies are likely accessible within a reasonable driving distance, the presence of urgent care facilities is crucial for managing asthma exacerbations. The ability to quickly access medical attention for a sudden worsening of symptoms is essential.

For individuals considering moving to Satsuma, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services is paramount. Understanding the potential challenges in accessing medical care, especially during an asthma flare-up, is crucial for making an informed decision. The Asthma Score serves as a critical tool for evaluating the suitability of Satsuma for individuals managing asthma.

The impact of these transportation challenges extends beyond the immediate need for medical care. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments are all essential components of asthma management. The difficulties in accessing these services can lead to medication non-adherence, missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer asthma control.

The Asthma Score is not just about the distance to healthcare facilities; it's about the overall accessibility of care. This includes the availability of transportation, the cost of transportation, the reliability of transportation, and the potential for delays. The Score must consider the potential impact of these factors on the individual's ability to manage their asthma effectively.

The rural nature of Satsuma presents unique challenges. The lack of public transit, the dependence on personal vehicles, and the potential for traffic delays all contribute to a lower Asthma Score. The Score should reflect the reality of healthcare access in this community.

The future of healthcare access in Satsuma could be improved through initiatives such as expanding the PCTD's service area and frequency, promoting ride-sharing programs tailored to medical needs, and exploring partnerships with medical transport providers. These improvements would significantly enhance the Asthma Score and improve the quality of life for residents managing asthma.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for Satsuma, Florida (ZIP Code 32189) reflects the challenges in accessing healthcare due to limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services create significant barriers to timely medical care. Individuals with asthma considering moving to Satsuma must carefully evaluate these factors to ensure they can effectively manage their health. The Asthma Score serves as a critical tool for assessing the suitability of this community for individuals with asthma, emphasizing the importance of transportation in healthcare access.