32464, Westville, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32464, Westville, Florida is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.60 percent of residents in 32464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Healthmark Regional Medical Center with a distance of 20.17 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 32464 (Westville, Florida)

The sun-drenched expanse of Westville, Florida (ZIP Code 32464), offers a tranquil escape, a slower pace of life, and a strong sense of community. However, when considering a move, especially for those with a history of breast cancer or those seeking proactive healthcare, understanding the realities of **healthcare access** becomes paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options to and from vital medical services, painting a clear picture for prospective residents.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical tool, but rather a qualitative evaluation of the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare within a reasonable travel radius of Westville. It weighs factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. This information is crucial for informed decision-making, ensuring individuals can maintain continuity of care and receive timely interventions.

Westville itself is a small, rural community. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in larger towns and cities, primarily Panama City, approximately 30 miles south. This distance significantly impacts the **transportation** equation, dictating the need for reliable and efficient methods of reaching essential healthcare providers.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary route connecting Westville to Panama City is via State Road 77. This two-lane highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased traffic, especially during peak hours or when accidents occur. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour under normal conditions.

Once in Panama City, access to specialized breast cancer care is primarily centered around Bay Medical Sacred Heart Hospital and Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center. Navigating Panama City's urban sprawl, including roads like 23rd Street and 15th Street, adds to the overall travel time.

For those seeking second opinions or specialized treatments not readily available in Panama City, travel to Pensacola (approximately 100 miles west) or Tallahassee (approximately 100 miles east) becomes necessary. These longer distances, requiring travel on Interstate 10 (I-10), significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score. These longer trips can easily consume two to three hours, each way, potentially increasing the stress and logistical challenges for patients.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Westville and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The Bay County Transit Authority (BCTA) provides some bus services, but these are primarily focused on Panama City and its immediate suburbs. Service to Westville is virtually non-existent, making public transit an impractical option for most residents seeking healthcare.

Furthermore, the BCTA’s routes may not always be directly aligned with the locations of cancer treatment centers. Even when routes are available, the frequency of service may be insufficient, requiring long wait times and multiple transfers. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing treatment, should be carefully considered. While the BCTA does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, the overall limitations of the system significantly diminish its value for breast cancer patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Panama City. However, their availability in Westville itself is less consistent. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments or emergency situations requires careful planning and may incur significant costs, especially during off-peak hours or when demand is high.

Specialized medical **transportation** services offer a more tailored approach. These companies provide non-emergency medical transport, often with trained personnel and vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or other specific needs. While these services can be invaluable, they typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing. Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including but not limited to, FirstLight Home Care, and CareRide. Researching and comparing the services, pricing, and availability of these companies is essential.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis:**

Given the constraints on **transportation** options, the Breast Cancer Score for Westville, Florida, is moderately challenging. The primary obstacle is the distance to Panama City and the limited availability of public transit. While ride-sharing and medical transport services provide alternatives, they come with cost and availability considerations.

**Moving to Westville** requires careful consideration of these factors, particularly for individuals with a history of breast cancer or those seeking proactive screening and treatment. Potential residents should:

* **Assess their individual needs:** Consider the frequency of appointments, the severity of their condition, and any mobility limitations.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify specific oncologists, surgeons, and treatment centers in Panama City and beyond.
* **Explore all transportation options:** Factor in the cost and reliability of ride-sharing, medical transport, and the potential need for personal vehicles.
* **Factor in the cost of care:** The cost of **transportation** should be included in the overall healthcare budget.
* **Consider a support network:** Having family or friends available to provide **transportation** assistance can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score.

**Conclusion:**

Westville offers a peaceful and appealing lifestyle. However, understanding the limitations of **healthcare access** and the complexities of **transportation** is crucial for informed decision-making. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for proactive planning, careful consideration of available resources, and a realistic assessment of the challenges associated with receiving timely and convenient breast cancer care in this rural community. By carefully weighing these factors, individuals can make informed choices about their healthcare needs and ensure a smoother transition to life in Westville.