32086, Saint Augustine, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32086, Saint Augustine, Florida is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.65 percent of residents in 32086 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Johns Radiology Associates Pa with a distance of 2.89 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 32086

Considering a move to the historic charm of Saint Augustine, Florida, specifically ZIP code 32086? Beyond the allure of cobblestone streets and sun-drenched beaches, it's crucial to understand the practicalities of healthcare access, particularly for a condition as significant as breast cancer. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for 32086, evaluating transportation options to essential medical services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and supportive care. This is crucial for anyone considering the area, especially those with a history of breast cancer or who are seeking proactive healthcare.

The Breast Cancer Score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing/medical transport options to the nearest facilities equipped to handle the full spectrum of breast cancer care. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this vibrant coastal community.

**Drive Time Deliberations**

For residents of 32086, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare are US-1 (North Ponce de Leon Boulevard), State Road A1A (Beach Boulevard), and Interstate 95. These roadways dictate the speed and ease with which one can reach crucial medical appointments.

The closest comprehensive breast cancer care is centered in Jacksonville, approximately 40-50 miles north. This distance translates to a drive time of roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak commute hours. Navigating US-1 can be slow, especially during tourist season, and I-95, while efficient, is prone to congestion.

The primary destinations for breast cancer care in Jacksonville include Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, Mayo Clinic Florida, and UF Health Jacksonville. Each offers a range of services, from screening mammograms and diagnostic imaging to surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The drive to these facilities from 32086 via I-95 is generally the most efficient route, though traffic can still be a factor.

Smaller, more local facilities, such as Flagler Hospital in Saint Augustine, offer some diagnostic services, including mammography. However, for comprehensive treatment, including surgery and radiation, patients will likely need to travel to Jacksonville. This is a key factor in the Breast Cancer Score.

**Public Transit Ponderings**

Public transportation options in Saint Augustine and the surrounding areas are limited. The St. Johns County Transportation Department (SJC Transportation) provides local bus services. However, these routes are primarily designed for local travel within the city and county, not specifically for facilitating commutes to Jacksonville for specialized medical care.

The primary bus routes servicing Saint Augustine are Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3. While these routes offer some coverage, they are not designed to connect directly to the major healthcare facilities in Jacksonville. Furthermore, the frequency of these routes is limited, and the journey times are significantly longer than driving.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SJC Transportation strives to provide accessible services, including lift-equipped buses and designated seating. However, the limitations of the public transit network mean that relying on these services for consistent and timely access to breast cancer care in Jacksonville is extremely challenging. This deficiency significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Realities**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Saint Augustine and can provide a more flexible transportation option than public transit. However, the cost of a ride-share to Jacksonville for a medical appointment can be substantial, especially for frequent visits. The availability of drivers can also fluctuate, potentially leading to delays.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide and FirstLight Home Care, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically come with a higher price tag than ride-sharing or public transit.

The availability of these services, and their affordability, is a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. While they offer solutions, they may not be feasible for all residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The reliance on these services highlights the need for greater investment in accessible and affordable transportation options for healthcare access.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The Breast Cancer Score for 32086 is a complex evaluation. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the transportation landscape presents significant challenges for individuals requiring comprehensive breast cancer care.

The score is negatively impacted by the distance to comprehensive treatment centers in Jacksonville, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport. The reliance on personal vehicles, and the associated costs of fuel and maintenance, further contribute to the overall score.

The score is positively influenced by the availability of local diagnostic services, such as mammography, at Flagler Hospital. The presence of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides some level of access, though the affordability and reliability of these services remain concerns.

**Moving to Saint Augustine: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Saint Augustine, especially those with a history of breast cancer or who are at high risk, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is paramount. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation needs.

Before making a move, prospective residents should:

* **Research the specific healthcare services available in Jacksonville.** Identify the facilities that meet their individual needs and preferences.
* **Evaluate their transportation options.** Consider the cost and reliability of driving, ride-sharing, and medical transport.
* **Factor in the time commitment required for travel.** Recognize that appointments in Jacksonville will require a significant time investment.
* **Explore the availability of support services in Saint Augustine.** Investigate local resources that can assist with transportation, financial assistance, and emotional support.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Saint Augustine is a personal one. However, a clear understanding of the Breast Cancer Score and the associated transportation challenges is essential for making an informed choice. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can ensure that they have adequate access to the vital healthcare services they need. The goal is to make the move as smooth as possible, and the journey to healthcare as manageable as possible.