32720, Deland, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32720, Deland, Florida is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 32720 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Deland with a distance of 0.96 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32720**

The sun-drenched heart of Central Florida, ZIP code 32720, encompassing DeLand, Florida, presents a unique tapestry of life. From the historic Stetson University to the sprawling landscapes, this community thrives. However, the crucial element of healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer treatment, demands a closer look. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluates the ease of access to vital medical services, focusing on transportation options available to residents. This is especially relevant for those **moving to DeLand**, seeking a comprehensive understanding of their healthcare landscape.

The Breast Cancer Score considers various factors, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals navigating the healthcare system in this area, particularly those confronting a breast cancer diagnosis. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary mode of **transportation** for many DeLand residents is the personal vehicle. The proximity of healthcare facilities significantly impacts the ease and speed of access. The journey to medical appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or surgical procedures can be emotionally and physically taxing. Therefore, the drive times to key facilities become paramount.

AdventHealth DeLand, a prominent healthcare provider in the area, is a logical starting point. From many residential areas within 32720, a drive to AdventHealth DeLand is typically less than 10 minutes. This convenience is a significant advantage, offering immediate access to a range of medical services, including diagnostic imaging and potentially initial breast cancer screenings and treatment.

However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The journey to Orlando, approximately 35 miles away, becomes a critical factor. This journey can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Interstate 4 (I-4), a major artery connecting DeLand to Orlando, is notorious for its congestion, particularly during peak hours. Navigating I-4 can be a significant stressor for patients, especially those undergoing treatment.

Another route involves using US-17/92, a more local road that can offer an alternative, but it also experiences heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. Avoiding these peak times is crucial for minimizing travel stress and ensuring timely arrival at appointments. For those **moving to DeLand**, understanding these traffic patterns and planning accordingly is essential for seamless **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit in DeLand, while present, offers limited options for those needing to access specialized medical care. The Volusia County Transportation Authority (Votran) provides bus service within the county. However, the routes and schedules may not be optimized for frequent medical appointments.

Route 20, for example, serves DeLand and connects to some areas of Orlando. While this offers a potential link to larger medical facilities, the travel time is considerably longer than driving. Furthermore, the frequency of buses may not align with the often-rigid schedules associated with cancer treatment.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. Votran buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the reliance on public transit for frequent medical appointments can still present challenges for those undergoing treatment, requiring more planning and potentially increased travel time.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services are readily available in DeLand and can provide door-to-door **transportation** to medical appointments. However, the cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can quickly accumulate, becoming a financial burden for patients.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for those who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and MedTrans Corporation provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive or have difficulty using public transit. The cost of these services varies, and it's essential to check insurance coverage to determine the extent of financial assistance available.

**Medical Facilities and Treatment Options**

The availability of comprehensive breast cancer treatment options within a reasonable distance is a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. AdventHealth DeLand offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical procedures, and chemotherapy. However, radiation therapy may require travel to a larger facility, such as AdventHealth Orlando or Florida Hospital Cancer Institute, increasing the burden on patients.

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

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 32720 reflects a mixed picture. The convenience of AdventHealth DeLand is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on I-4 for access to specialized care in Orlando presents a challenge, particularly considering traffic congestion.

Public transit offers limited options, and ride-sharing services can be costly. Medical transport services provide a valuable resource for those with mobility limitations. The overall score would consider these factors, weighing the accessibility of local services against the challenges of accessing specialized care in Orlando.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the Breast Cancer Score requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit options, with routes specifically designed to serve medical facilities, would be beneficial. Exploring partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates could alleviate financial burdens.

Promoting awareness of medical transport services and ensuring insurance coverage for these services is crucial. Finally, advocating for infrastructure improvements on I-4 to reduce traffic congestion would significantly improve **healthcare access** for residents of DeLand.

For those **moving to DeLand**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape and the available healthcare resources is essential. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing the ease of access to care and making informed decisions about their healthcare journey. It is a reminder that access to healthcare is not just about the availability of medical facilities but also about the ability to reach them efficiently and affordably.