33760, Clearwater, Florida Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 33760, Clearwater, Florida is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.86 percent of residents in 33760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Largo Hospital with a distance of 5.42 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Clearwater, Florida (ZIP Code 33760)

Considering a move to Clearwater, Florida (ZIP Code 33760) and managing asthma? This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare, specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals with respiratory conditions. It delves into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, providing a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision. Understanding the nuances of transportation is paramount for ensuring timely access to essential healthcare, ultimately impacting the quality of life for those with asthma.

The primary concern for residents with asthma is swift access to medical care during exacerbations. In 33760, this necessitates a thorough examination of transportation infrastructure. The score considers the ease of reaching urgent care facilities, pulmonologists, and pharmacies from various locations within the zip code. The goal is to determine the relative ease of navigating the transportation landscape and accessing healthcare resources.

Driving remains a dominant mode of transportation in Clearwater. Major arteries like US-19, a bustling north-south corridor, can present challenges. During peak hours, congestion on US-19 can significantly extend travel times, potentially hindering timely access to emergency care. Similarly, the Bayside Bridge, connecting Clearwater to St. Petersburg, experiences heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. Alternative routes, such as McMullen Booth Road and Drew Street, offer some relief, but they also become congested during peak times.

For those residing closer to the coast, the Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard (State Road 60) provides direct access to Morton Plant Hospital, a major healthcare provider in the area. However, this route can also be heavily trafficked, especially near the hospital. The drive time to Morton Plant from various points within 33760 is a critical factor in the Asthma Score. The shorter the drive, the higher the score.

Public transportation in Clearwater, provided by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), offers an alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve the 33760 area, connecting residents to healthcare facilities. Route 18, for example, travels along US-19, providing access to various medical offices and clinics. Route 19 serves Drew Street, offering access to Morton Plant Hospital. Route 34 connects to Clearwater Beach and provides access to pharmacies and urgent care facilities.

PSTA strives to provide accessible transportation for all riders. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. Real-time tracking information is available through the PSTA website and app, allowing riders to monitor bus arrival times and plan their trips accordingly. However, the frequency of bus service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor for some. The Asthma Score considers the availability and frequency of PSTA routes in relation to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Clearwater. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. The Asthma Score considers the availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services, particularly during off-peak hours and for trips to urgent care facilities.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare-related travel. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transport Services operate in the Clearwater area. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. The Asthma Score considers the availability, cost, and reliability of medical transportation services.

Pharmacy access is another crucial aspect of the Asthma Score. Several pharmacies, including Walgreens, CVS, and independent pharmacies, are located within the 33760 zip code. The proximity of pharmacies to residences and healthcare facilities is a significant factor. The ease of picking up prescriptions, especially during an asthma exacerbation, is essential.

The Asthma Score is not just about the speed of transportation; it also considers the overall comfort and convenience. Factors such as air quality, the availability of air-conditioned transportation, and the ability to avoid exposure to allergens are considered. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, considering the unique needs of individuals with asthma.

Moving to Clearwater with asthma requires careful planning. The Asthma Score provides a framework for evaluating the transportation landscape and ensuring access to timely and effective healthcare. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that can change based on individual circumstances and preferences.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score empowers individuals with asthma to make informed decisions about their healthcare and transportation needs. By understanding the complexities of transportation in 33760, residents can proactively manage their condition and live a healthier, more fulfilling life. This write-up serves as a starting point, encouraging further research and personalized assessment to ensure the best possible healthcare access.