33026, Hollywood, Florida Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 33026, Hollywood, Florida is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.25 percent of residents in 33026 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital West with a distance of 1.33 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hollywood, FL (ZIP Code 33026)

The balmy breezes and sun-drenched shores of Hollywood, Florida (ZIP Code 33026) beckon, promising a vibrant lifestyle. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of this coastal paradise must be tempered with a realistic assessment of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the complexities of transportation within this specific zip code, examining how readily residents can reach medical care, a critical factor in asthma management. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture for those considering moving to Hollywood and ensuring adequate healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access, especially in an area with a significant elderly population, is the ability to reach medical facilities promptly. For residents of 33026, the primary arteries for transportation are Interstate 95 (I-95), the Florida Turnpike, and US-1 (Federal Highway). These roadways, while offering swift passage, can become congested during peak hours, impacting drive times.

Traveling to Memorial Regional Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from various points within 33026 necessitates careful planning. From the western reaches of the zip code, near Sheridan Street, a drive to Memorial Regional Hospital, located just east of I-95, can take approximately 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily balloon to 25-30 minutes, particularly if encountering accidents or construction. The journey involves navigating Sheridan Street, a heavily trafficked east-west corridor, and then utilizing I-95 or North 35th Avenue to reach the hospital.

Conversely, for those residing closer to the coast, near A1A, the drive is generally shorter, averaging 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic on Hollywood Boulevard, the primary east-west thoroughfare. The proximity to healthcare facilities is a significant advantage for asthma sufferers, allowing for quicker access to emergency care. The Florida Turnpike offers an alternative route, but its toll costs must be factored into the overall transportation budget.

Public transportation offers another layer of healthcare access. Broward County Transit (BCT) provides bus services throughout the area, with several routes traversing 33026. Route 1, running along US-1, offers frequent service and connects to various medical offices and hospitals. Route 7, traveling along Hollywood Boulevard, is another vital link, providing access to both east and west sections of the city. Route 12, running north-south, also offers access to medical facilities.

The BCT system is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, with all buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. This is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, which can sometimes be exacerbated by asthma symptoms. However, the reliability of public transit can be a concern, with potential delays due to traffic or mechanical issues. Furthermore, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may not always align with medical appointments.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. Their availability in Hollywood is generally good, with relatively short wait times. The cost, however, can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. For individuals with asthma, the ability to request a ride quickly, especially during a sudden exacerbation of symptoms, is a significant benefit. However, the lack of specialized medical training among ride-share drivers is a potential drawback.

Medical transport services cater specifically to patients requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other private providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve a trained attendant and specialized vehicles, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. While NEMT services provide peace of mind, they can be more expensive than other transportation options and require pre-booking.

The availability of healthcare facilities within 33026 is another critical factor. Several primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and urgent care centers are located within the zip code or in close proximity. This reduces the need for lengthy commutes for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments. However, the availability of specialists, particularly those with expertise in asthma management, may vary.

For individuals considering moving to Hollywood and managing asthma, the overall "Asthma Score" is influenced by several factors. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of various transportation options, and the reliability of those options all play a role. While Hollywood offers a range of transportation choices, the reliance on roadways prone to congestion and the potential for delays in public transit necessitates careful planning.

The best approach is a multi-pronged strategy. Utilizing a combination of personal vehicles, ride-share services, and public transit, while factoring in the location of medical facilities, can ensure consistent healthcare access. Furthermore, establishing a relationship with a local pulmonologist and developing an asthma action plan are essential for proactive asthma management.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for 33026 is moderately favorable. While not perfect, the combination of readily available ride-share services, multiple public transit routes, and the proximity to healthcare facilities provides a reasonable level of healthcare access. However, the potential for traffic congestion and the need for careful planning necessitate a proactive approach to transportation. Moving to Hollywood requires a thorough understanding of these transportation dynamics to effectively manage asthma and enjoy the benefits of this coastal community.