32110, Bunnell, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32110, Bunnell, Florida is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.06 percent of residents in 32110 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Florida Hospital Medical Group Inc with a distance of 8.49 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32110 (Bunnell, Florida)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates accessible and reliable transportation, a critical factor influencing treatment adherence and overall well-being. This analysis explores the transportation landscape within and surrounding Bunnell, Florida (ZIP code 32110), providing a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the ease and challenges of accessing essential breast cancer services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive perspective for residents and those contemplating moving to Bunnell.

Bunnell, a charming town nestled in Flagler County, presents a unique transportation profile. While the area boasts a slower pace of life, the distance to specialized medical facilities can be a significant hurdle. This is especially true for individuals facing the complexities of breast cancer treatment, which often involves frequent appointments for diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. Understanding the available transportation options is paramount in navigating this challenging journey.

**Drive Times: The Primary Pathway**

For many Bunnell residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The commute to major healthcare providers, however, is often dictated by the availability of highways and roads. The primary arteries for accessing specialized breast cancer care include Interstate 95 (I-95), U.S. Highway 1, and State Road 100. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and tourist seasons.

The closest major healthcare centers offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Daytona Beach and Jacksonville. Driving to Daytona Beach, approximately 30 miles south via I-95, typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This journey usually involves navigating local roads such as State Road 100 to reach the interstate. Jacksonville, about 80 miles north via I-95, presents a longer commute, averaging one and a half to two hours. This longer drive time can be particularly taxing for patients undergoing treatment, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Accessing local medical facilities within Bunnell and Flagler County, such as AdventHealth Palm Coast, offers a shorter commute, often under 30 minutes. However, these facilities may not provide the full spectrum of specialized breast cancer care, necessitating travel to larger hospitals in Daytona Beach or Jacksonville for advanced treatments like radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures. This highlights the importance of considering the complete treatment journey when evaluating healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Bunnell and Flagler County are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The Flagler County Transportation Department (FCTD) operates a demand-response system, offering curb-to-curb service within the county. However, this service is not designed for frequent, long-distance trips to specialized medical centers in Daytona Beach or Jacksonville.

The FCTD does not have fixed-route bus services. The demand-response system requires advance booking, often a day or two in advance, making it less suitable for urgent appointments or unexpected treatment needs. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is limited, potentially creating barriers for individuals with mobility challenges. The lack of a robust public transit system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for accessing breast cancer care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bunnell area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, particularly for frequent trips to distant medical centers.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. These services typically offer door-to-door service and may include trained medical personnel. While medical transport provides a valuable resource, it often comes with a higher price tag, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

**Assessing the Breast Cancer Score**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for accessing healthcare in Bunnell (ZIP code 32110) reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to a moderate level of healthcare access.

The drive times to major healthcare centers in Daytona Beach and Jacksonville are manageable, but the distance and potential traffic congestion can create stress and inconvenience. The lack of a robust public transit system and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport pose barriers for individuals without personal vehicles or those facing financial constraints.

For individuals considering moving to Bunnell, the availability of reliable transportation should be a key consideration. The ability to drive or access alternative transportation methods is crucial for navigating the complexities of breast cancer care. While Bunnell offers a tranquil lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical facilities and the limitations of public transit require careful planning and consideration.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To enhance healthcare access in Bunnell, several improvements could be implemented. Expanding the FCTD's services, including the introduction of fixed-route bus services or increased demand-response capacity, would significantly benefit residents without personal vehicles. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also reduce transportation costs. Promoting awareness of medical transport services and exploring financial assistance programs for patients would further enhance access to care.

Ultimately, improving transportation infrastructure and expanding healthcare access are essential for ensuring that all Bunnell residents have the opportunity to receive timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. This requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations. By addressing the transportation challenges, Bunnell can strengthen its commitment to providing quality healthcare and supporting the well-being of its residents.