33055, Opa Locka, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33055, Opa Locka, Florida is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.36 percent of residents in 33055 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Florida State Hospital with a distance of 4.26 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 33055

The journey to healthcare, especially when battling breast cancer, is a critical factor in treatment success and overall well-being. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 33055 (Opa-locka, Florida), assesses the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare, considering various transportation options. Understanding these nuances is crucial for residents, those contemplating a move, and anyone seeking to optimize their care.

The geographical layout of 33055 significantly impacts transportation logistics. Situated west of I-95, north of the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826), and bisected by the Florida Turnpike, the area presents a mix of accessibility challenges and opportunities. The availability and efficiency of transportation directly influence healthcare access, impacting appointment adherence, treatment options, and overall patient experience.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation for residents. The primary arteries, I-95, the Palmetto Expressway, and the Turnpike, offer varying degrees of convenience. The Turnpike, with its toll booths, can expedite travel but adds to the cost. I-95, while generally faster, is notorious for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The Palmetto Expressway provides a more localized route, but its proximity to residential areas can also lead to delays.

Drive times to major healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer care vary. Driving south on I-95 to Mount Sinai Medical Center on Miami Beach, a prominent facility, can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading west on the Palmetto Expressway to Baptist Hospital, another major center, typically takes 20 to 40 minutes. Jackson Memorial Hospital, located in downtown Miami, is accessible via I-95, with drive times mirroring those of Mount Sinai. These estimates assume optimal conditions; traffic, accidents, and construction can significantly extend travel times.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with limitations. Miami-Dade County's public transit system, overseen by the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW), provides bus routes serving 33055. Routes like the 7, 27, and 34 are likely options, though their exact coverage and frequency should be verified. The Metrorail system, with its elevated lines, does not directly serve 33055, necessitating a bus transfer.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of public transit is paramount for patients with mobility challenges. All Miami-Dade County buses are required to be ADA-compliant, offering features like ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of elevators at transfer stations, and the overall wait times, may pose challenges. Planning a public transit journey requires careful consideration of schedules, transfer points, and potential delays, especially for individuals undergoing treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, present another viable option. These services offer on-demand transportation, eliminating the need for personal vehicles or reliance on public transit schedules. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further inflate costs, potentially creating a barrier to access.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to patients with medical needs. Brands like CareRide and MedRide offer specialized transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be invaluable for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their condition. The cost of medical transportation is often higher than ride-sharing, but may be covered by insurance or other assistance programs.

The availability of healthcare facilities within 33055 itself is limited. While the area has primary care physicians and some outpatient clinics, specialized breast cancer care, including mammography, surgery, and radiation therapy, typically requires travel to larger hospitals and medical centers. This necessitates reliance on transportation options to access comprehensive care.

For individuals considering moving to Opa-locka (33055), the transportation landscape should be a critical factor in their decision. Assessing the proximity to healthcare facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, and the associated costs is essential. The availability of reliable transportation directly impacts the ability to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and follow-up care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 33055, therefore, reflects a nuanced picture. While the area offers access to major highways and ride-sharing services, the reliance on these options, coupled with the limitations of public transit and the absence of comprehensive breast cancer care within the ZIP code, presents challenges. The score is influenced by drive times, the reliability of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of specialized medical transportation.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 33055 highlights the importance of proactive planning. Patients, and those considering a move, should meticulously research transportation options, assess their individual needs, and explore available resources to ensure seamless access to the care they deserve. Careful consideration of transportation logistics is an integral part of navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment and maintaining a high quality of life.