32079, Penney Farms, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32079, Penney Farms, Florida is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 32079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent's Clay County with a distance of 9.11 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32079 (Penney Farms, Florida)**

The quaint, historic town of Penney Farms, Florida, nestled in ZIP code 32079, offers a unique blend of tranquility and community. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for a critical illness like breast cancer, the idyllic setting necessitates a deeper dive. This "Breast Cancer Score" analyzes the transportation landscape, a vital component of healthcare access, for residents of Penney Farms, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and available ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals navigating the healthcare system, especially those undergoing breast cancer treatment.

For residents of Penney Farms, the nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in Jacksonville, a city approximately 30 miles to the north. This distance translates into a significant commute, heavily reliant on personal vehicles. The primary arteries connecting Penney Farms to Jacksonville are US-17 and US-301.

Driving north on US-17 offers a relatively direct route, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Expect a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the destination within Jacksonville and the time of day. US-301, while offering an alternative route, may present similar travel times, but it can be less congested than US-17.

The commute necessitates careful planning, particularly for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which often require frequent appointments. The physical and emotional toll of cancer treatment can be exacerbated by long commutes, making the availability and reliability of transportation critical factors in a patient's overall well-being.

Public transportation options within Penney Farms and to Jacksonville are limited. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides bus services throughout the city, but direct routes from Penney Farms are nonexistent. Residents would need to rely on a combination of services, potentially including a ride to a JTA hub or a ride-sharing service to reach a bus stop. This multi-step process adds significant time and complexity to the commute, making it less practical for regular medical appointments.

The JTA's bus system does offer ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of direct routes from Penney Farms presents a significant barrier for those with mobility challenges or those undergoing treatment that may impact their physical capabilities. The JTA's website and customer service lines provide detailed information on routes, schedules, and accessibility features.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Penney Farms can vary. While both services operate in the broader Jacksonville area, the frequency of drivers in Penney Farms may be lower, potentially leading to longer wait times or higher fares.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The financial burden of transportation can add to the stress of cancer treatment, potentially impacting a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan. It's crucial to factor in the cost of ride-sharing when assessing healthcare access in Penney Farms.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients who require assistance with transportation. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer services that include non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). NEMT can provide transportation for patients to and from medical appointments, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

While medical transport services provide a valuable resource, they can be expensive. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage. Patients should investigate their insurance coverage and explore financial assistance options to help cover the cost of medical transportation.

Moving to Penney Farms, while offering a slower pace of life, demands careful consideration of healthcare access. The distance to comprehensive cancer care facilities in Jacksonville necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation. The absence of direct public transit options and the potential for limited ride-sharing availability present significant challenges for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Penney Farms, considering these factors, highlights the importance of proactive planning. Residents should thoroughly research transportation options, including the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. They should also investigate the feasibility of relying on family, friends, or community support networks for transportation assistance.

Furthermore, the local community could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded public transit options, partnering with ride-sharing services to provide discounted rates for medical appointments, or establishing a local volunteer driver program. Such efforts could significantly improve the quality of life for residents of Penney Farms facing the challenges of breast cancer treatment.

The healthcare access landscape in Penney Farms, specifically concerning breast cancer care, necessitates a multifaceted approach. While the town offers a serene environment, the transportation challenges to reach vital medical services demand careful consideration and proactive planning. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not merely about the availability of medical facilities but also about the ease and affordability of reaching them.