33054, Opa Locka, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33054, Opa Locka, Florida is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.99 percent of residents in 33054 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Steward North Shore Medical Center with a distance of 3.95 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 33054

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, demands meticulous research. For those contemplating a move to Opa Locka, Florida, specifically ZIP code 33054, understanding the landscape of breast cancer care becomes paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation options available to residents, assessing their impact on healthcare access and ultimately informing a "Breast Cancer Score" for this specific geographic area.

Opa Locka, nestled within Miami-Dade County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The area’s reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit, significantly influences the ease with which residents can reach vital medical appointments. This analysis will delve into the various modes of transportation, evaluating their accessibility, convenience, and overall impact on healthcare access for individuals facing breast cancer.

**The Road to Recovery: Navigating by Car**

For many residents, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfares serving 33054 include the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826), the Golden Glades Interchange (I-95), and US-441. These highways, while providing relatively direct routes to major hospitals and cancer centers, are notorious for heavy traffic, especially during peak hours.

Traveling to the University of Miami Hospital, a prominent cancer treatment facility, from central 33054 via the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) could involve a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The drive to Memorial Cancer Institute in Hollywood via I-95 might take a similar amount of time, potentially longer during rush hour. The ability to quickly and reliably reach these critical medical appointments becomes a significant factor in a patient's overall well-being.

The condition of local roads, such as NW 22nd Avenue and NW 135th Street, also contributes to the transportation experience. Potholes, inadequate lighting, and pedestrian hazards can make navigating these routes challenging, particularly for those with mobility issues or undergoing treatment that may affect their physical capabilities.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag of Accessibility**

Miami-Dade County’s public transit system, while present in 33054, presents limitations. The primary options include buses and the Metrorail. Bus routes such as the 7, 18, and 22, traverse through the area, offering connectivity to other parts of Miami-Dade County. However, these routes often involve multiple transfers, increasing travel time and the risk of delays.

The Metrorail, with stations located further south, requires a bus connection for residents of 33054. This adds another layer of complexity, particularly for individuals needing to attend regular chemotherapy or radiation treatments. The Metrorail does offer ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps, elevators, and designated seating, which are crucial for patients with mobility limitations. However, the overall reliance on bus connections and the potential for extended travel times can significantly impact healthcare access.

The availability of real-time tracking information for buses and the Metrorail is crucial for patients to manage their schedules and minimize waiting times. This information allows individuals to plan their trips more effectively, reducing the stress associated with medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, offering convenience and flexibility. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. This financial burden can be a significant barrier for some patients.

Medical transportation services, such as LogistiCare and ModivCare, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who lack access to other forms of transportation. They may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the availability of these services and the distance to the closest provider can vary, potentially impacting the timeliness of appointments.

**Evaluating the Breast Cancer Score**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 33054 is a composite metric reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can access breast cancer care. It considers factors such as drive times to hospitals and cancer centers, the reliability and accessibility of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation, and the overall impact of these factors on a patient's ability to receive timely and effective treatment.

Given the challenges outlined above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 33054 would likely be moderate. While major hospitals and cancer centers are within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services present barriers to healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Opa Locka, Florida, understanding the transportation landscape is critical. The availability of reliable and accessible transportation options directly impacts the ability to access breast cancer care. Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual needs, financial resources, and mobility limitations when evaluating the suitability of 33054.

Further research should include a detailed assessment of the specific cancer centers and hospitals, including their proximity, services offered, and patient satisfaction ratings. Speaking with current residents and healthcare providers can provide valuable insights into the practical realities of accessing care in this area. By taking these factors into account, individuals can make informed decisions that prioritize their health and well-being.