32147, Hollister, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32147, Hollister, Florida is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.05 percent of residents in 32147 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Putnam Hospital with a distance of 6.68 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Transportation Access in ZIP Code 32147 (Hollister, Florida)**

The quiet, rural community of Hollister, Florida, nestled within ZIP code 32147, offers a slower pace of life, appealing to those seeking respite from the urban rush. However, the serenity of this area can present challenges when it comes to accessing essential healthcare services, particularly for individuals navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. A critical component of a patient’s journey is reliable transportation, and this analysis examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding 32147, focusing on its impact on healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for this ZIP code considers the time and ease of travel to medical facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care, encompassing diagnosis, treatment, and supportive services. It assesses the availability of various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment, providing a detailed understanding of the transportation barriers and opportunities faced by residents.

**Personal Vehicle Transportation: The Dominant Mode**

For residents of 32147, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The landscape is characterized by the need to travel outside the immediate community to access specialized medical care. The nearest major healthcare hubs are located in Palatka, Gainesville, and Jacksonville, each presenting varying drive times and route complexities.

Traveling east on **State Road 20** provides a direct route to Palatka, the county seat of Putnam County. The drive, typically taking around 20 to 30 minutes, offers access to Putnam Community Medical Center, a facility that may offer some breast cancer screening and diagnostic services. However, for comprehensive treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, patients often need to travel further.

Venturing west on **State Road 20** and then north on **US-441** offers a route to Gainesville, home to the University of Florida Health Shands Hospital, a comprehensive cancer center. The drive, spanning approximately 60 to 90 minutes, requires navigating through rural areas and potentially encountering traffic, especially during peak hours. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing side effects.

For those seeking specialized care, particularly in the realm of advanced treatments and clinical trials, Jacksonville presents a viable option. The journey, typically taking around 60 to 90 minutes, involves utilizing **US-301** or **State Road 20** to reach **Interstate 95** or **Interstate 295**. The Jacksonville area boasts several hospitals and cancer centers, including Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center and Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, offering a wide range of services.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options within and around 32147 are severely limited. Putnam County does offer a public transit system, Putnam County Transit (PCT), but its routes and frequency are restricted, primarily serving the Palatka area. The routes are not designed to efficiently connect Hollister residents with healthcare facilities in Gainesville or Jacksonville.

The PCT services may offer some limited access to medical appointments within Palatka, but the schedules and route structures are not always conducive to the needs of cancer patients, who often require frequent and timely transportation. ADA accessibility is a consideration, with PCT vehicles equipped to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited service frequency and route coverage remain significant barriers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 32147 area, but their reliability and cost can be variable. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients, especially those undergoing multiple treatments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide a more targeted solution. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and accessible vehicles. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific needs.

**Healthcare Access and the Impact on Breast Cancer Patients**

The transportation challenges in 32147 directly impact healthcare access for breast cancer patients. The extended travel times to specialized medical facilities can lead to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This can negatively affect treatment outcomes and quality of life.

The financial burden associated with transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport services, can also be a significant stressor for patients. This can lead to patients foregoing or delaying necessary care, further exacerbating the challenges of managing the disease.

The lack of convenient and affordable transportation options can also limit access to supportive services, such as support groups, counseling, and rehabilitation programs. These services are crucial for patients' emotional and physical well-being, and their accessibility is essential for a holistic approach to cancer care.

**Moving to Hollister: Considerations for Breast Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering moving to Hollister, 32147, with a history of or a current breast cancer diagnosis, the transportation landscape should be a primary consideration. The remoteness of the area and the limited transportation options pose significant challenges to healthcare access.

Before making a move, prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare services in the surrounding areas, including the drive times and transportation costs. They should also investigate the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options.

It is also advisable to assess the potential impact of transportation challenges on their ability to attend appointments, access supportive services, and maintain their overall well-being. Individuals should also consider the availability of support networks within the community, such as family, friends, or community organizations, who can provide assistance with transportation.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Transportation Solutions**

The transportation landscape in 32147 presents significant challenges for breast cancer patients. The limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring opportunities to expand public transportation services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide discounted rates for medical appointments, and increasing the availability of medical transportation services.

Furthermore, community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs and carpooling arrangements, can help bridge the transportation gap. By working together, the community can improve healthcare access for breast cancer patients, ensuring they receive the timely and comprehensive care they need to thrive. A focus on improving transportation is an investment in the health and well-being of the residents of 32147.