32321, Bristol, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32321, Bristol, Florida is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.37 percent of residents in 32321 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calhoun-Liberty Hospital with a distance of 5.71 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bristol, Florida (ZIP Code 32321)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer screening and treatment, is a complex equation. It's a calculation that considers not only the availability of medical professionals but also the practicalities of *transportation*. For residents of Bristol, Florida (ZIP Code 32321), the accessibility of these vital services is a significant factor in their overall health and well-being. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities surrounding *healthcare access* in this rural community, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering *moving to Bristol* or already residing within its boundaries.

Bristol, a small town nestled in Liberty County, presents unique challenges in terms of healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. This distance, combined with limited public *transportation* options, can create significant barriers for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

The primary mode of *transportation* for most Bristol residents is personal vehicles. The main thoroughfare is State Road 12 (SR-12), a vital artery connecting Bristol to neighboring towns and cities. Driving to Tallahassee, the nearest city with specialized cancer care, involves a journey of approximately 75 miles. The drive typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route primarily utilizes SR-12, then transitions to Interstate 10 (I-10) East.

Alternatively, for those heading west, SR-12 also connects to Blountstown, the county seat of Calhoun County. The drive to Blountstown, which may offer some local medical services, is a shorter trip, usually under 30 minutes. This route also relies on SR-12.

The drive times can vary depending on the time of day, with peak traffic hours potentially adding to the commute. Road conditions, especially during inclement weather, can also impact travel times. For those without personal vehicles, these drive times represent a substantial obstacle to *healthcare access*.

Public *transportation* options in Bristol are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town itself. The closest public *transportation* options might be available in Tallahassee, but the distance and lack of direct routes render them impractical for most residents. This lack of public *transportation* significantly impacts those who are unable to drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public *transportation*. However, the absence of a local public transit system in Bristol means that ADA-compliant *transportation* options are effectively non-existent. This further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities seeking breast cancer care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Tallahassee, but their presence in Bristol is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of these services depends on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not a dependable solution for most Bristol residents.

Medical *transportation* services are another potential avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical *transportation* may operate in the area. These services often require pre-booking and can be costly. The availability of medical *transportation* providers in Bristol needs to be verified, and costs must be factored into the equation.

Several factors influence the "Breast Cancer Score" for Bristol. The primary considerations include the distance to comprehensive cancer centers, the availability of *transportation* options, the cost of travel, and the presence of support services. A high score indicates easier access to care, while a low score reflects significant barriers.

The lack of readily available public *transportation* and the distance to specialized cancer centers significantly lower the "Breast Cancer Score" for Bristol. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for high *transportation* costs, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the challenges faced by individuals seeking breast cancer care.

For those considering *moving to Bristol*, understanding these *transportation* challenges is crucial. Individuals with a history of breast cancer, or those at high risk, should carefully evaluate their ability to manage the travel demands associated with their care.

The local healthcare infrastructure also plays a role in the "Breast Cancer Score." While Bristol may have primary care physicians, access to specialized oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists is limited. This means that residents often need to travel to Tallahassee or other cities for comprehensive care.

Support services, such as patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and support groups, can help mitigate the challenges of accessing care. The availability of these resources in Bristol and the surrounding areas is an important factor in the overall score.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Bristol is not static; it can change over time. Improvements in *transportation* options, the establishment of local cancer screening programs, or the expansion of telehealth services could all positively impact the score. Conversely, a decline in the availability of healthcare providers or an increase in *transportation* costs could worsen the score.

In conclusion, while Bristol offers a tranquil lifestyle, *healthcare access*, particularly for breast cancer care, presents significant challenges. The limited *transportation* options, the distance to specialized medical facilities, and the potential for high *transportation* costs create barriers for residents. For those considering *moving to Bristol*, a thorough assessment of these factors is crucial. Addressing these *transportation* challenges through community initiatives, advocating for improved public transit, and exploring innovative solutions like telehealth are vital steps in improving the "Breast Cancer Score" and ensuring that all Bristol residents have equitable access to the care they need.