34465, Beverly Hills, Florida Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 34465, Beverly Hills, Florida is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.01 percent of residents in 34465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Citrus Hospital with a distance of 10.55 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 34465

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals managing asthma, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 34465, aims to provide an "Asthma Score" – a composite measure reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. This score considers various modes of transportation, their associated travel times, and accessibility features, ultimately painting a picture of the healthcare landscape for residents.

ZIP code 34465, encompassing a portion of Citrus County, Florida, presents a unique challenge. Its relative remoteness and reliance on personal vehicles shape the transportation landscape. The Asthma Score will consider the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of the healthcare access situation. We will explore the possibilities for those *moving to Beverly Hills* from this area.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The cornerstone of transportation in 34465 is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by the location of the facility and the resident's point of origin within the ZIP code. Primary roadways impacting commute times include US Highway 19, the main artery running north-south, and State Road 44, traversing east-west.

For residents in the western reaches of 34465, accessing facilities in Crystal River or Homosassa Springs via US 19 is typical. Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours. A trip to Citrus Memorial Hospital in Inverness, further inland, necessitates navigating State Road 44.

The condition of these roadways, including potential congestion and the presence of traffic signals, directly impacts the Asthma Score. Longer drive times, especially for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation, can exacerbate their condition. The lack of immediate access to medical care is a critical factor.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in 34465 are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for individuals reliant on alternatives to personal vehicles. Citrus County Transit operates a fixed-route bus system, offering a lifeline for some residents. However, route coverage is not extensive, and frequency is often limited, particularly in the more rural areas of the ZIP code.

The primary bus routes serving the area may include routes connecting Crystal River, Inverness, and Homosassa Springs. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. The Asthma Score will reflect the availability of accessible transportation options, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating.

The infrequent service and limited route coverage pose a challenge for those requiring regular medical appointments. The Asthma Score will factor in the potential for extended travel times and the inconvenience associated with transferring between routes. These factors directly impact healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in 34465 can be inconsistent, depending on demand and driver availability.

The Asthma Score considers the reliability of ride-sharing services, including wait times and the potential for surge pricing during peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies or specialized non-emergency medical transportation providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel and specialized equipment.

The Asthma Score will evaluate the availability of medical transport services, their response times, and the cost of these services. The presence of oxygen and other medical equipment within the vehicles is a critical factor.

**Impact on the Asthma Score:**

The Asthma Score is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the overall healthcare accessibility for asthma sufferers in 34465. Factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the reliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the score. The score will also consider the availability of pharmacies and urgent care facilities within the area.

A higher Asthma Score indicates better healthcare access, reflecting shorter commute times, more frequent public transit options, and reliable ride-sharing services. A lower score highlights challenges in accessing medical care, potentially leading to delayed treatment and poorer health outcomes.

**Recommendations:**

Improving the Asthma Score in 34465 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit routes and increasing service frequency would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Encouraging the development of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could mitigate the challenges associated with transportation. Promoting the availability of in-home healthcare services could also reduce the need for frequent trips to medical facilities.

**Conclusion:**

The Asthma Score for 34465 reflects the complex interplay of transportation and healthcare access. While the reliance on personal vehicles poses a challenge, the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create additional hurdles. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents, particularly those managing asthma, can access the healthcare they need promptly and efficiently. This analysis offers a starting point for understanding the challenges and developing strategies to improve healthcare access in this unique Florida ZIP code. The ability to navigate these *transportation* challenges is vital to *healthcare access* for those *moving to Beverly Hills* of Citrus County.