32224, Jacksonville, Florida Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 32224, Jacksonville, Florida is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.77 percent of residents in 32224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mayo Clinic Florida with a distance of 1.95 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Jacksonville's 32224

The quest for optimal healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like asthma, is a crucial consideration when contemplating a move. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 32224 in Jacksonville, Florida, providing an "Asthma Score" assessment. This score weighs the ease of reaching healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility. This information is vital for prospective residents, especially those with respiratory sensitivities, to make informed decisions.

ZIP Code 32224, encompassing areas like Mandarin and part of Fruit Cove, presents a unique challenge. While offering suburban tranquility, its reliance on personal vehicles and limited public transportation can impact healthcare access. The "Asthma Score" considers these factors, aiming to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation hurdles and opportunities.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

For many residents of 32224, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfare, Interstate 295, acts as the primary artery, connecting the area to various medical facilities. Driving times to these facilities fluctuate significantly based on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

Traveling north on I-295, residents can reach Baptist Medical Center South within approximately 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions. However, rush hour can easily double this time. Heading east, the journey to Memorial Hospital Jacksonville via I-295 South and the Hart Bridge Expressway (SR-10) takes roughly 25-35 minutes, again, depending on traffic.

Southbound on I-295, the drive to Ascension St. Vincent's Southside Hospital is usually a 20-25 minute trip, but this can stretch considerably during morning and afternoon commutes. The efficiency of driving, while offering door-to-door convenience, is consistently at the mercy of Jacksonville’s traffic patterns.

Navigating local roads such as San Jose Boulevard (SR-13) and Old St. Augustine Road provides alternative routes, but these are often congested, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. While these routes can offer scenic detours, they often add time to the overall commute, especially when navigating the complex intersections.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public transit services in the area, yet their reach in 32224 is limited. Bus routes serving the area are not as frequent or extensive as in more centrally located areas. This can pose significant challenges for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

Route 10, operating along San Jose Boulevard, offers a connection to downtown Jacksonville, but its frequency is relatively low, with wait times potentially exceeding an hour during off-peak times. This route does connect to the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center (JRTC), which offers connections to other routes, but the transfer process adds to the overall travel time.

Route 18, which travels along Old St. Augustine Road, provides another option, but it also faces similar limitations in frequency and reach. These routes have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible features, including ramps and audio-visual announcements. However, the limited coverage and infrequent schedules make public transit a less viable option for many, particularly those requiring timely access to medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Avenues**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the cost of these services can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent medical appointments. During peak hours, surge pricing can further inflate the costs, potentially making them unaffordable for some residents.

Medical transportation services, such as First Coast Medical Transport and Care Ride, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. While these services offer a valuable resource, they can be costly and require advance booking, potentially limiting flexibility.

**Asthma Score Assessment: Weighing the Factors**

The "Asthma Score" for 32224 reflects the challenges and opportunities within the transportation landscape. While the area offers a relatively safe and pleasant living environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and limited public transit options present significant hurdles for healthcare access, especially for individuals with asthma.

The score takes into account the following factors: the average drive times to healthcare facilities, the frequency and reach of public transit routes, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical transportation services. The score also considers the potential impact of traffic congestion on commute times.

Based on these factors, the "Asthma Score" for 32224 is moderately impacted. While access to major hospitals is available, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the limitations of public transit all contribute to a score that reflects a degree of difficulty in accessing healthcare.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

For individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions considering a move to 32224, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. Prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities when selecting a home. Assess the feasibility of relying on personal vehicles, considering the potential impact of traffic congestion.

Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options. Investigate the public transit routes and schedules, recognizing their limitations. If possible, familiarize yourself with the area's traffic patterns and plan travel times accordingly.

Ultimately, a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring timely and reliable access to healthcare. The "Asthma Score" serves as a valuable tool for prospective residents, enabling them to make informed decisions and prioritize their health and well-being. When moving to Jacksonville, assess your healthcare needs to ensure optimal access to care.