34994, Stuart, Florida Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 34994, Stuart, Florida is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.69 percent of residents in 34994 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cleveland Clinic Martin North Hospital with a distance of 0.49 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Stuart, Florida (ZIP Code 34994)

The decision to relocate, especially when managing a chronic condition like asthma, necessitates a thorough assessment of healthcare access. This analysis, tailored for ZIP Code 34994 in Stuart, Florida, provides an "Asthma Score" based on transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for ensuring consistent and timely care. Understanding these nuances is vital for anyone considering moving to Stuart, offering a clear picture of the practicalities of managing asthma in this specific geographic area.

The core of healthcare access hinges on the ease and reliability of transportation. For residents of 34994, the primary mode is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Proximity to major thoroughfares significantly impacts drive times. The primary artery is **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, running north-south, offering swift access to healthcare facilities both within and outside of Stuart. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can substantially extend travel times, a critical consideration for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

**Florida's Turnpike**, while not directly intersecting 34994, provides an alternative route, particularly for destinations south of Stuart. Travel times on the Turnpike are generally consistent, though tolls must be factored into the overall cost. Within Stuart, **Federal Highway (US-1)** serves as a major north-south corridor, providing access to numerous medical offices and clinics. **Kanner Highway (FL-76)**, running east-west, offers another crucial route, connecting to various healthcare providers and facilitating access to the Intracoastal Waterway and surrounding areas.

Drive times to essential healthcare facilities vary. **Cleveland Clinic Martin Health System's Stuart Hospital**, a major healthcare provider, is generally accessible within 10-20 minutes from most parts of 34994, depending on traffic conditions and specific location. This timeframe assumes travel via US-1 or Kanner Highway. Specialist appointments at clinics within the hospital complex are similarly accessible.

Access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is a critical factor in asthma management. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable drive time is a key component of the Asthma Score. Drive times to these specialists, located in various medical office buildings, generally mirror those to the Stuart Hospital, ranging from 10-25 minutes.

Public transportation options in Stuart, while present, are less extensive than in larger metropolitan areas. **Martin County's public transit system (MARTY)** offers bus routes that serve the area. However, the routes are limited, and frequency can be a concern, especially for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. **ADA-accessible buses** are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The MARTY system's routes, while offering a potential solution, may not be the most practical option for individuals with asthma. The need for multiple transfers and extended travel times can be a significant barrier, particularly during an asthma attack. Furthermore, the potential exposure to allergens and irritants on public transport could exacerbate symptoms.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. These services are readily available in Stuart and provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a specialized solution. Companies like **Firstat Nursing Services** and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, enhancing healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations.

The Asthma Score also considers the availability of urgent care facilities. **Concentra Urgent Care** and other walk-in clinics are located in the area, offering immediate care for acute asthma exacerbations. Access to these facilities within a short drive time is crucial for managing asthma emergencies.

The availability of pharmacies, crucial for medication refills, is another factor. **CVS, Walgreens, and Publix Pharmacy** locations are readily accessible throughout 34994, ensuring convenient access to necessary medications. Drive times to these pharmacies are generally short, typically under 10 minutes.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score acknowledges the importance of emergency services. **Martin County Fire Rescue** provides emergency medical services, including ambulance transport to the nearest hospital. The proximity of fire stations and ambulance response times are critical factors in emergency asthma care.

The overall Asthma Score for 34994 reflects a mixed picture. While personal vehicle access is generally favorable, public transportation limitations and the potential cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of specialists, urgent care facilities, and pharmacies, combined with the presence of emergency medical services, contribute positively to the score.

The Asthma Score is not a static metric; it is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly reviewed. Factors such as changes in traffic patterns, the availability of new healthcare providers, and evolving public transportation options can impact the score. For individuals considering moving to Stuart with asthma, a thorough understanding of these transportation and healthcare access factors is essential for making an informed decision.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for 34994, while not perfect, provides a reasonable level of healthcare access, particularly for those with reliable access to a personal vehicle. The availability of specialists, urgent care facilities, and pharmacies further enhances the score. However, individuals should carefully consider the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing services. Careful planning and proactive management of transportation options are crucial for successfully managing asthma in Stuart, Florida. The Asthma Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the practicality of moving to Stuart, ensuring that healthcare access aligns with individual needs and preferences.