32095, Saint Augustine, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32095, Saint Augustine, Florida is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.16 percent of residents in 32095 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Johns Radiology Associates Pa with a distance of 12.65 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 32095**

Considering a move to Saint Augustine, Florida, and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment? This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for ZIP code 32095, focusing on transportation options to relevant medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options, painting a picture of the ease – or difficulty – of accessing vital healthcare services. Understanding these nuances is crucial when making informed decisions about your health and well-being.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment but a practical guide to transportation challenges and opportunities. We'll delve into the realities of getting to appointments, considering the unique needs of individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. The goal is to empower you with information, enabling you to make the best choices for your healthcare journey.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 32095 is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. Several factors influence drive times, including traffic, time of day, and the specific destination.

For breast cancer screening and treatment, the primary destinations are the Baptist Medical Center South in Jacksonville, the Flagler Hospital in Saint Augustine, and various imaging centers and oncology clinics.

Traveling to Baptist Medical Center South, located approximately 50 miles north, typically involves navigating Interstate 95 (I-95). During peak hours, morning and evening commutes, expect significant delays. A trip that might take an hour during off-peak times could easily stretch to an hour and a half or more. The journey involves merging onto I-95 from secondary roads, like State Road 207, and then navigating Jacksonville’s urban sprawl.

Flagler Hospital, a closer option, is roughly 10-15 miles away. The most direct route is via US Highway 1, a busy thoroughfare. Traffic congestion, especially around historic downtown Saint Augustine, can add to the travel time. Another option is State Road 312, which provides a slightly less congested route. The drive time to Flagler Hospital is generally manageable, making it a more accessible option for routine screenings and follow-up appointments.

Smaller clinics and imaging centers may be located closer to 32095. These might be accessible via local roads, such as Pacetti Road and International Golf Parkway. However, their availability and the range of services they offer should be carefully considered.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Saint Augustine and the surrounding areas presents a significant challenge. The St. Johns County Transportation (SJC Transportation) offers limited bus service. The routes are infrequent and often do not directly serve key healthcare facilities.

The primary route that might be relevant is the "A" route, which runs along US Highway 1. However, it doesn't provide direct access to Baptist Medical Center South. It would require a transfer, adding considerable travel time.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. SJC Transportation buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. However, the limited service and long travel times can still pose significant challenges for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, mobility issues, and the need for frequent medical appointments.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-share services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. Availability in 32095 is generally good, although surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs. This is a viable option for individual appointments, but the cost can accumulate quickly, especially with frequent treatments or screenings.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs. Several companies operate in the Saint Augustine area, including:

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Provides non-emergency medical transportation, including stretcher and wheelchair services.
* **Firstat Nursing Services:** Offers transportation and companion services.
* **Medicaid Transportation Providers:** These services are available for eligible individuals, often through the state’s Medicaid program.

These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. However, it is crucial to check insurance coverage and pre-book these services, particularly for appointments at Baptist Medical Center South, due to the longer travel distances.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

The availability of comprehensive breast cancer care is a key factor. Flagler Hospital provides screening, diagnostic services, and some treatment options. However, for more complex cases, patients may need to travel to Baptist Medical Center South in Jacksonville, which offers a full range of oncology services, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the time and effort required to access these facilities. The distance to Baptist Medical Center South is a significant factor, especially considering potential traffic delays.

**Breast Cancer Score Summary**

Based on the transportation options and healthcare access outlined above, the Breast Cancer Score for 32095 presents a mixed picture.

* **Drive Time:** While Flagler Hospital is relatively accessible, the distance to Baptist Medical Center South and potential traffic congestion negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transit options severely limit healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport:** These services offer valuable alternatives, but costs and availability must be considered.
* **Healthcare Availability:** The need to travel to Jacksonville for comprehensive treatment adds complexity.

**Recommendations**

For individuals considering moving to 32095, here are some recommendations:

1. **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive or have access to a personal vehicle.
2. **Research Insurance Coverage:** Confirm your insurance coverage for ride-share, medical transport, and treatment at both Flagler Hospital and Baptist Medical Center South.
3. **Explore Support Services:** Research local support groups and resources for breast cancer patients.
4. **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If healthcare access is a primary concern, consider the location of your home relative to Flagler Hospital and other medical facilities.
5. **Plan Ahead:** Pre-book medical transport services and schedule appointments with ample time to account for potential delays.

The Breast Cancer Score for 32095 highlights the importance of careful planning and proactive measures to ensure access to essential healthcare services. While Saint Augustine offers a desirable lifestyle, understanding the transportation challenges is crucial for individuals concerned about breast cancer screening and treatment.