32696, Williston, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32696, Williston, Florida is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.19 percent of residents in 32696 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Anesthesia Physician Solutions Of North Florida Llc with a distance of 19.45 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Williston, Florida (ZIP Code 32696)

The verdant landscape of Williston, Florida, beckons with the promise of a slower pace and a close-knit community. For those considering a move to this charming corner of Levy County, understanding the landscape of healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment, is crucial. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options within and beyond ZIP code 32696, illuminating the realities of healthcare access for potential residents.

This score considers drive times to key healthcare facilities, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. It aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities that residents might face when seeking breast cancer-related healthcare. The score, while not a definitive ranking, offers a practical guide to navigating the healthcare system in this rural setting.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the understanding that **transportation** is inextricably linked to **healthcare access**. A lack of reliable transportation can significantly impact a patient's ability to attend appointments, undergo screenings, and receive timely treatment. This is especially critical for individuals facing the emotional and physical challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Williston, Florida, is a town reliant on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for **transportation** are US-27 and US-41, both of which offer access to larger cities with more comprehensive medical facilities. Driving to the nearest hospital with comprehensive cancer care, North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville, requires navigating these highways. The drive is approximately 25-30 miles, typically taking 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Another option, though further afield, is Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, also in Gainesville. This drive, also primarily via US-27 and US-41, can take upwards of 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. These times are crucial to consider, especially for those needing regular appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, or follow-up care.

Smaller clinics and imaging centers within Williston offer some services, reducing the need for long drives for basic screenings. However, for specialized care, such as surgical oncology or radiation therapy, residents are often compelled to travel to Gainesville or Ocala.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Williston are limited. The Levy County Transit system provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and their coverage of the area is sparse. There are no direct routes to Gainesville hospitals from Williston. This severely restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The absence of robust public **transportation** presents a significant barrier for individuals with mobility issues, those who cannot afford a car, or those who are unable to drive due to medical conditions. While the Levy County Transit system is ADA-compliant, the limited service makes it an unreliable option for regular medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Williston, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as Alacare Home Health & Hospice and First Choice Medical Transportation, offer specialized **transportation** for patients with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly, potentially impacting **healthcare access** for those with limited financial resources.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" for Williston:**

Based on the above factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Williston, Florida (32696) is moderate, leaning towards the lower end of the scale. While residents have access to basic screening services locally, accessing specialized care, such as surgical oncology and radiation therapy, requires navigating significant **transportation** challenges.

The dependence on personal vehicles, coupled with the limitations of public **transportation** and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation**, creates barriers to **healthcare access**. This is particularly relevant for individuals with limited mobility, those without personal vehicles, and those facing financial constraints.

**Considerations for Moving to Williston:**

For those considering **moving to Williston**, it is crucial to factor in these **transportation** considerations. Prospective residents should assess their **transportation** needs and capabilities. Individuals with a history of breast cancer or a family history of the disease should carefully evaluate the implications of limited **healthcare access** and the potential for long travel times to receive specialized care.

Understanding the **transportation** landscape is critical for ensuring timely access to screenings, diagnosis, and treatment. Residents should also explore local resources, such as the American Cancer Society, which may offer **transportation** assistance or financial aid for patients.

**Conclusion:**

Williston, Florida, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its rural setting presents **transportation** challenges that can impact **healthcare access**, especially for breast cancer patients. While basic screening services are available locally, access to specialized care necessitates navigating longer distances.

Individuals contemplating a move to Williston must carefully consider the **transportation** implications, weighing the benefits of the community against the potential barriers to **healthcare access**. Proactive planning, including understanding available **transportation** options and exploring potential support resources, is essential for ensuring optimal **healthcare access** and promoting well-being in this charming Florida town.