34747, Kissimmee, Florida Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 34747, Kissimmee, Florida is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.89 percent of residents in 34747 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Osceola Hospital with a distance of 10.95 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kissimmee (ZIP Code 34747)

Relocating to a new area, especially with a chronic condition like asthma, necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access. This analysis, tailored for ZIP code 34747 in Kissimmee, Florida, evaluates the transportation landscape and its impact on reaching crucial medical appointments. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, culminating in an “Asthma Score” reflecting the ease and reliability of accessing healthcare within this community. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Kissimmee, particularly those prioritizing convenient and accessible healthcare.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in 34747 are the I-4 (Interstate 4), US-192 (Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway), and Osceola Parkway. Driving times to healthcare facilities significantly influence the Asthma Score. For example, reaching Osceola Regional Medical Center, a major hospital, from the western reaches of 34747 via Osceola Parkway could take 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, stressing individuals with asthma who may require rapid medical attention. Similarly, traveling east on US-192 to access clinics near the intersection of US-192 and John Young Parkway can take a considerable amount of time, especially with the heavy tourist traffic common in this area.

Navigating the roadways also requires considering the potential for traffic incidents. Even a minor accident on I-4, the major interstate, can cause significant delays, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms if a patient is en route to an emergency appointment. Therefore, the reliability of private transportation becomes a critical factor in the overall Asthma Score. The ability to choose alternative routes, especially during peak traffic, is essential for managing healthcare access.

Public transportation, primarily provided by Lynx, offers an alternative to driving. Several Lynx bus routes serve 34747, including the 55, 56, and 108. Route 55, for instance, travels along US-192, connecting various points within the zip code and providing access to medical facilities along the corridor. While Lynx offers ADA-accessible buses equipped with ramps and designated seating, the frequency of service and the overall travel time can be significant drawbacks. Waiting times at bus stops, particularly during inclement weather, can be challenging for asthma sufferers.

Furthermore, the Lynx system's coverage may not extend to all areas within 34747, necessitating transfers and longer travel times to reach specific healthcare providers. The Asthma Score must consider these limitations, recognizing that public transit, while an option, may not be the most efficient or convenient means of transportation for all individuals.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide another layer of transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, ride-sharing availability and pricing can fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and location. During peak hours or in areas with limited ride-sharing availability, the cost of these services can become prohibitive, impacting the affordability of healthcare access. The Asthma Score needs to weigh the convenience of ride-sharing against its potential financial burden.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized solution. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Access Transportation offer non-emergency medical transport, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. However, the availability of these services and the need to schedule appointments in advance can present challenges. The Asthma Score must consider the reliability and accessibility of these specialized transportation options.

The overall Asthma Score, therefore, is not a simple calculation but a nuanced assessment of the interplay between these transportation factors. It considers the drive times, the efficiency and accessibility of public transit, the affordability and availability of ride-sharing, and the specialized services offered by medical transport providers.

**Scoring Methodology:**

Each transportation mode receives a score based on its impact on healthcare access. Drive times are assessed based on average travel times to key medical facilities during both peak and off-peak hours. Public transit scores are based on route coverage, frequency of service, and ADA accessibility. Ride-sharing scores are based on availability, cost, and reliability. Medical transportation services are scored based on availability, cost, and specialization.

**Factors and Weighting:**

* **Drive Times (40%):** This component heavily weighs the impact of traffic congestion on travel times to healthcare facilities. Shorter, more reliable drive times contribute to a higher score.
* **Public Transit (25%):** This considers the accessibility, frequency, and convenience of Lynx bus routes. The availability of ADA-accessible services is a key factor.
* **Ride-Sharing (20%):** This assesses the availability, cost, and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation (15%):** This evaluates the availability, cost, and specialization of medical transport services.

**Asthma Score Calculation:**

The final Asthma Score is derived by summing the weighted scores for each transportation mode. The score is then categorized into one of the following ranges:

* **Excellent (85-100):** Healthcare access is readily available and convenient across multiple transportation options.
* **Good (70-84):** Healthcare access is generally good, with some potential limitations depending on the chosen transportation mode.
* **Fair (55-69):** Healthcare access presents some challenges, with potential delays or limitations depending on the chosen transportation mode.
* **Poor (Below 55):** Healthcare access is significantly limited, with long travel times, limited transportation options, and potential barriers to timely medical care.

**Asthma Score for 34747:**

Based on the analysis, the Asthma Score for 34747 is likely to fall within the "Fair" to "Good" range (60-75). The presence of multiple transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, contributes to a relatively positive score. However, the significant traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, and the limitations of public transit, especially in terms of frequency and coverage, can hinder healthcare access. Individuals with asthma considering moving to Kissimmee (34747) should carefully evaluate their specific healthcare needs and transportation preferences when making their decision. They should factor in the potential for delays and the need for alternative transportation options.