32180, Pierson, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32180, Pierson, Florida is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.13 percent of residents in 32180 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Deland with a distance of 15.45 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Pierson, Florida (ZIP Code 32180)**

The diagnosis of breast cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Pierson, Florida (ZIP code 32180), the journey to healthcare is a critical factor in their prognosis and overall well-being. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for this community, focusing on the realities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a detailed picture for those seeking or already receiving care, and for those considering moving to this area.

Pierson, a small town nestled in Volusia County, offers a rural charm that often comes with challenges in accessing specialized medical services. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers are located in Daytona Beach and Deland, requiring residents to navigate the complexities of transportation. This is where the "Breast Cancer Score" becomes vital. It weighs the accessibility of care against the practicalities of getting there, considering time, cost, and convenience.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The primary routes connecting Pierson to essential healthcare are State Road 40 (SR-40) and U.S. Highway 17 (US-17). SR-40, a major east-west artery, provides the most direct route to AdventHealth Daytona Beach, a prominent healthcare provider. The drive typically spans 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, this time can be significantly extended during peak hours, especially on weekdays.

US-17, running north-south, offers access to AdventHealth Deland, another vital healthcare hub. The drive to Deland usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes, making it a slightly more accessible option than Daytona Beach in terms of travel time. However, traffic congestion on US-17, particularly near Deland, can also impact travel times.

These drive times are crucial. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in breast cancer care, and delays in accessing care can negatively affect outcomes. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers these travel times, weighting them based on the urgency of the situation. Longer travel times translate to a lower score, reflecting the increased challenges faced by patients in Pierson.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Pierson are limited. The Volusia County Transportation Authority (Votran) provides bus services, but their routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs. The nearest Votran routes are located in Deland and Daytona Beach, requiring residents to travel to these hubs to access the bus system.

The existing Votran routes are not designed to be direct to healthcare facilities. The buses typically travel along major roads, requiring transfers and potentially long wait times. The lack of direct routes and the limited frequency of service make public transit a less-than-ideal option for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who often require frequent appointments and may experience fatigue or other treatment-related side effects.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. Votran buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the overall limitations of the system, including the need for transfers and the lack of direct routes, can still pose significant challenges for patients. The "Breast Cancer Score" acknowledges the limitations of public transit in Pierson, assigning a lower score to this aspect of transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Pierson, offering a more convenient alternative to public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for patients who require frequent appointments.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate patients with mobility limitations. Several medical transport providers operate in the Volusia County area, including companies like Firstat Nursing Services and American Medical Response (AMR). However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. While these options offer greater convenience than public transit, their cost and potential unreliability can still pose challenges for patients. The score reflects these factors, providing a nuanced assessment of the transportation landscape.

**Moving to Pierson: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Pierson, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides a critical perspective on healthcare access. While the town offers a tranquil lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical care is a significant consideration, especially for those with a history of cancer or who are at high risk.

The score encourages potential residents to thoroughly research their healthcare options, including the availability of specialists, the proximity of treatment centers, and the transportation resources available. It emphasizes the importance of having a reliable transportation plan in place, whether it involves a personal vehicle, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Pierson, Florida, acknowledges the challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. It underscores the importance of reliable transportation, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the realities faced by breast cancer patients in this community.

By considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access in Pierson. It serves as a valuable tool for residents, potential newcomers, and healthcare providers, highlighting the need for improved transportation solutions and a greater focus on healthcare access in this rural community. The goal is to ensure that all residents, regardless of their location, have timely and convenient access to the life-saving care they need.