32926, Cocoa, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 32926, Cocoa, Florida is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.69 percent of residents in 32926 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Steward Rockledge Hospital with a distance of 5.52 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cocoa, Florida (ZIP Code 32926)**

The sun-drenched expanse of Cocoa, Florida, nestled along the Indian River Lagoon, offers a compelling allure for those considering a move. However, when evaluating a new location, especially for individuals with specific healthcare needs, a comprehensive understanding of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 32926, assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential breast cancer screening and treatment facilities.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a single numerical value. Instead, it's a holistic evaluation of factors that impact a patient's journey, from initial diagnosis to ongoing care. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and specialized medical transport services. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Cocoa** and seeking a clear picture of their healthcare accessibility.

**Driving Times: The Arteries of Care**

Cocoa's road network serves as the primary artery for accessing healthcare. The major thoroughfares, including Interstate 95 (I-95) and US Highway 1, are critical for reaching hospitals and clinics. The drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

For residents in the central areas of 32926, a drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, such as the Health First Cancer Institute at Holmes Regional Medical Center in Melbourne, typically takes 20-30 minutes via US-1 and then onto Eau Gallie Boulevard. This route offers relatively consistent traffic flow, but potential delays can arise near the Melbourne Causeway.

Heading north to the Viera Hospital, another option for care, involves a drive of approximately 25-35 minutes. This journey often utilizes US-1 and then onto Wickham Road. While Wickham Road offers a more suburban feel, traffic congestion can occur, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times.

For those living in the western regions of 32926, accessing these facilities might involve navigating local roads like Clearlake Road and SR 520. These routes can add an extra 5-10 minutes to the overall travel time, and the traffic light density can cause frustrations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public **transportation** options in Cocoa, and Brevard County in general, are limited. Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT) provides bus service, but the network is not extensive, and frequency can be an issue. The primary routes serving 32926 are Route 1 (connecting Cocoa to Melbourne) and Route 4 (running along US-1).

While SCAT buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, the limited route coverage can create significant challenges for patients needing frequent appointments. The travel time on public transit is significantly longer than driving, often doubling or tripling the journey duration. Transfers are often necessary, further extending the commute.

The lack of a dedicated bus route directly serving the cancer centers in Melbourne or Viera adds another layer of complexity. Patients relying on public transit might need to factor in multiple transfers and extended waiting times, making it difficult to attend scheduled appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible **transportation** alternative. These services are readily available in Cocoa, providing on-demand rides to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent visits.

Medical **transportation** companies, such as First Choice Medical Transportation and Air Ambulance Worldwide, specialize in providing non-emergency medical transport. These services offer door-to-door transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services can be a lifeline for patients with mobility limitations, they often come with a higher price tag.

The availability of these services is generally good in 32926, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak hours or for appointments at specialized facilities.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for 32926 is a nuanced assessment. While the area boasts decent access to healthcare facilities, the **transportation** infrastructure presents certain limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit options, can pose challenges for patients who are unable to drive or lack access to a car.

The drive times to cancer centers are reasonable, but traffic congestion can impact travel times. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer viable alternatives, but the associated costs must be considered.

**Healthcare access** in Cocoa is not just about physical proximity to medical facilities. It encompasses the ease of getting there, the cost of **transportation**, and the availability of support services.

**Moving to Cocoa** requires careful consideration of these factors. Prospective residents, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or other health concerns, should thoroughly research the **transportation** options and assess their ability to navigate the healthcare system.

The Breast Cancer Score for 32926 is a reminder that healthcare accessibility is a multifaceted issue. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local infrastructure, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose a location that best suits their circumstances.