33510, Brandon, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33510, Brandon, Florida is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.73 percent of residents in 33510 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Brandon Hospital with a distance of 1.40 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brandon, FL (ZIP Code 33510)**

Embarking on a journey to assess healthcare access in Brandon, Florida (ZIP Code 33510) for individuals facing breast cancer requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score," considers transportation infrastructure, proximity to specialized medical facilities, and the availability of support services. Understanding these elements is critical for informed decision-making, especially for those considering moving to Brandon or seeking improved healthcare access within the community. The goal is to illuminate the realities of healthcare access, empowering individuals to navigate their journeys with confidence.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, undeniably, transportation. The ability to reach medical appointments, treatments, and support services is paramount. Brandon, a vibrant suburb of Tampa, presents a unique transportation landscape. Driving remains the primary mode, with major thoroughfares like **Interstate 75 (I-75)** and the **Lee Roy Selmon Expressway (SR 618)** facilitating rapid transit to Tampa's medical hubs. The **Brandon Parkway** and **Bloomingdale Avenue** serve as crucial east-west arteries, connecting residential areas to commercial centers and healthcare providers.

Driving times are significantly impacted by traffic patterns. Peak hours, typically weekdays from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can extend travel times considerably. A drive from central Brandon to the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, a leading cancer treatment facility, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic flow on I-75. The shorter route via the Selmon Expressway, while a toll road, can offer a faster, albeit more expensive, option. Similarly, access to Tampa General Hospital, another major healthcare provider, typically takes 25 to 40 minutes via I-75 or the Selmon Expressway.

Public transit, while available, presents a different calculus. The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides bus service in the area. Route 30, for example, offers service along **Brandon Boulevard**, a major east-west thoroughfare, connecting to the Brandon Mall and other commercial areas. Route 39X travels along **Bloomingdale Avenue**. These routes, however, may not directly serve all medical facilities, and transfers are often necessary. ADA accessibility is a key consideration, with HART buses equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities.

The reliance on public transit can significantly extend travel times. A bus trip from central Brandon to Moffitt Cancer Center could easily exceed an hour, even without considering transfer times. The same journey to Tampa General Hospital might take a similar amount of time. Therefore, while public transit offers an alternative, its practicality for frequent medical appointments and treatments, especially for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, requires careful consideration.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. They provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need for transfers and potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. Availability can also be a factor, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer another avenue. Companies like FirstLight Home Care, and Senior Helpers, specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, adding an extra layer of support for patients. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs.

Proximity to healthcare facilities is, of course, a critical factor. Brandon itself boasts several medical clinics and urgent care centers, providing immediate care for less serious conditions. However, for specialized breast cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, patients in Brandon often need to travel to Tampa. This necessitates a careful consideration of transportation options and the associated travel times.

Beyond transportation, the availability of support services plays a vital role in the Breast Cancer Score. Support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators can provide invaluable emotional and practical assistance. These services may be offered by hospitals, cancer centers, or community organizations. Access to these resources, and the ease with which they can be reached, contributes significantly to the overall healthcare experience.

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 33510, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers convenient access to major highways and ride-sharing services, the reliance on driving or navigating public transit to reach specialized cancer care facilities in Tampa is a significant consideration. The availability of medical transportation services and the presence of supportive community resources enhance the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Brandon, or for those already residing there, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is paramount. This includes evaluating personal mobility, financial resources, and the frequency of medical appointments. Understanding the nuances of driving times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing options empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a framework for this critical evaluation, highlighting the importance of transportation and healthcare access in the fight against breast cancer.