33406, West Palm Beach, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33406, West Palm Beach, Florida is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.44 percent of residents in 33406 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 4.92 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 33406

Considering a move to West Palm Beach, Florida, specifically the 33406 ZIP code? Understanding healthcare access, particularly for crucial services like breast cancer screening and treatment, is paramount. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines transportation options to healthcare facilities, offering insights for informed decision-making. The ease of getting to these facilities is a significant factor in the overall quality of life, especially for those managing or at risk of this disease.

The 33406 ZIP code, nestled within West Palm Beach, presents a complex transportation landscape. While car ownership remains dominant, public transit and ride-sharing services provide alternatives. The proximity to major thoroughfares like Interstate 95 (I-95) and the Florida Turnpike (SR 91) significantly impacts drive times to healthcare destinations. Understanding these factors is key to evaluating healthcare access.

For those relying on private vehicles, the journey to comprehensive breast cancer care is often dictated by traffic patterns. The drive to the Jupiter Medical Center, a renowned facility, via I-95 can take approximately 20-30 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. Utilizing the Florida Turnpike, a toll road, offers a potentially faster route, though the added cost must be considered. Local roads like Okeechobee Boulevard and Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard also provide access, but these routes are often subject to congestion, particularly during peak hours.

The journey to Good Samaritan Medical Center, closer to the heart of West Palm Beach, is usually more direct. A drive via I-95 or local roads like Flagler Drive and Olive Avenue typically takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, St. Mary's Medical Center, a major regional facility, is accessible via I-95 and SR 7 (US 441), with drive times ranging from 15-25 minutes. This time can fluctuate significantly, especially during rush hour.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though it presents its own challenges. Palm Tran, the county's public transit system, operates numerous routes throughout the area. Route 1, a major east-west artery, runs along Okeechobee Boulevard, providing access to several medical facilities. Route 40, traveling north-south along Military Trail, also serves areas with healthcare providers. However, frequency and travel times on these routes may be less convenient than driving.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor for public transit users. Palm Tran buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the need to navigate bus stops and transfers can add considerable time to the overall journey. Planning ahead and checking schedules is crucial for those relying on public transit for their healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide door-to-door convenience, eliminating the need to navigate complex bus routes or deal with parking. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly add up, especially for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours can further increase expenses, requiring careful budgeting.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, are also available. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, booking these services often requires advance notice, and insurance coverage varies.

The Breast Cancer Score for 33406 must consider the interplay of these transportation options. While the proximity to major highways offers convenience for car owners, the reliance on these routes also exposes residents to traffic delays. Public transit provides a more affordable alternative, but travel times and accessibility concerns are present. Ride-sharing offers convenience, but at a higher cost. Medical transportation services cater to specific needs, but require planning and may involve insurance hurdles.

Evaluating healthcare access requires a nuanced understanding of these factors. Someone considering a move to West Palm Beach, especially if they have a history of breast cancer or are at high risk, should carefully assess their transportation needs and preferences. Consider the frequency of appointments, the ability to drive, and the availability of support networks. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, is not a single number, but a comprehensive evaluation of the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access.

The accessibility of healthcare is a critical component of overall well-being. When evaluating the 33406 ZIP code, the ease of transportation to healthcare facilities, including those specializing in breast cancer care, should be a primary consideration. This assessment will help prospective residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and quality of life. The ability to reach these essential services quickly and reliably is a cornerstone of a healthy and fulfilling life in West Palm Beach.