32139, Georgetown, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32139, Georgetown, Florida is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.07 percent of residents in 32139 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Putnam Hospital with a distance of 17.84 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: 32139 (Georgetown, Florida)**

The sun-drenched landscape of Georgetown, Florida, nestled in ZIP code 32139, offers a tranquil escape. However, the serenity of this Putnam County haven must be balanced with a critical assessment of its healthcare access, particularly for those concerned about breast cancer. A "Breast Cancer Score" offers a comprehensive view of transportation options, a vital component of healthcare access, and the challenges and opportunities facing residents. The score will consider the time and effort required to reach essential medical services, influencing the quality of life and health outcomes for those considering moving to Georgetown.

The cornerstone of this evaluation is transportation. The ability to reach timely medical appointments, diagnostic tests, and treatments is paramount in the fight against breast cancer. This score will delve into the accessibility of healthcare facilities from various points within 32139, considering driving times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape, enabling informed decisions about healthcare access.

**Driving Distances and Times**

Georgetown's location, while offering a rural charm, presents transportation hurdles. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are State Road 19 and County Road 309. These roads wind through the scenic countryside, but the journey to specialized breast cancer care can be lengthy. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are primarily located in Palatka, Jacksonville, and Gainesville.

Driving to Palatka, approximately 20 miles away, is the most accessible option. The drive, primarily via State Road 19, usually takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. While manageable, this time commitment needs to be factored into the overall burden of healthcare.

Venturing further, Jacksonville, approximately 70 miles away, presents a significantly longer commute. The journey, typically involving State Road 19 to US-17, then onto I-95, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, potentially longer during peak traffic hours. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

Gainesville, roughly 80 miles away, offers another option, primarily accessed via State Road 19 and US-441. The drive typically consumes 1.5 to 2 hours, similar to Jacksonville. The roads are generally well-maintained, but the distance remains a significant factor.

The driving times highlight the importance of personal vehicles. Public transportation options are limited, making reliance on a car almost essential for healthcare access in Georgetown.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation in 32139 is sparse. The Putnam County Transit (PCT) system offers limited services. PCT operates demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This can be a significant obstacle for patients needing immediate or frequent appointments.

PCT does offer routes to Palatka, but the schedule may not align with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical factor. PCT is committed to providing accessible transportation, but potential users should confirm availability when scheduling. The lack of regular, scheduled routes significantly impacts healthcare access.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the challenges faced by those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This limitation creates a barrier to healthcare access, particularly for elderly residents or those with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region but may be unreliable in Georgetown. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand. This unreliability poses a challenge for scheduling appointments and ensuring timely access to care.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Care Ride provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offering a more reliable option than ride-sharing. However, these services come at a cost, which can be a significant financial burden.

The reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation adds to the overall cost and complexity of healthcare access. Patients must factor in the expense and potential delays when planning their medical journeys.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 32139 must consider several factors:

* **Drive Time:** The distance and time required to reach specialized breast cancer care facilities in Palatka, Jacksonville, and Gainesville.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The limitations of the Putnam County Transit system, including route frequency, ADA accessibility, and scheduling requirements.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The dependability of Uber and Lyft services in the area.
* **Medical Transportation Costs:** The financial burden of utilizing specialized medical transportation services.
* **Proximity to Support Services:** The availability of local pharmacies, imaging centers, and primary care physicians for initial screenings and follow-up care.

**Overall Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 32139 will likely reflect the challenges associated with healthcare access in a rural setting. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical facilities and the limitations of transportation options present significant hurdles.

Residents considering moving to Georgetown must carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and the transportation options available. The score will serve as a valuable tool for making informed decisions, highlighting the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness to ensure timely access to essential breast cancer care. The score will also emphasize the importance of community support and advocacy to improve healthcare access in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, area.