33547, Lithia, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33547, Lithia, Florida is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.75 percent of residents in 33547 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Brandon Hospital with a distance of 8.16 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 33547**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, is a critical aspect of well-being. In the ZIP code 33547, encompassing the charming community of Lithia, Florida, assessing healthcare access involves a nuanced understanding of transportation options and the distances involved. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how residents of 33547 can reach essential medical services, focusing on breast cancer care. This is especially important for those *moving to Lithia*, as they'll need to understand their options.

The foundation of assessing healthcare access lies in understanding the geography. Lithia is a semi-rural area, meaning that while it offers a tranquil lifestyle, it also presents challenges in terms of transportation. The primary arteries for travel are the major highways, including Interstate 75 (I-75) and the Selmon Expressway (SR 618). These roads, along with major thoroughfares like FishHawk Boulevard and Lithia Pinecrest Road, are essential for navigating the region.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

For residents of 33547, the closest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in Brandon and Tampa. Driving to these locations requires careful consideration of traffic patterns, especially during peak hours. The drive to Brandon Regional Hospital, a key healthcare provider, typically involves traveling west on FishHawk Boulevard, connecting to Bloomingdale Avenue, and then accessing the Selmon Expressway (SR 618). Depending on traffic, this drive can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes.

Tampa General Hospital, another major healthcare destination, is accessible via the Selmon Expressway (SR 618) and I-75. The drive to Tampa General Hospital, a leading cancer center, can take between 30 and 60 minutes, again depending on traffic. These estimates underscore the importance of planning and considering the time needed for travel, especially for patients undergoing treatment or frequent appointments.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in 33547 are limited. Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) provides bus services, but routes and frequency are not as extensive as in more urban areas. The primary route serving the area is Route 31, which travels along Lithia Pinecrest Road and connects to other major routes in Brandon. However, the frequency of Route 31 is limited, and it may not be a viable option for all residents, especially those with mobility issues or needing to travel at specific times.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for those using public transit. HART strives to ensure all its buses are accessible, but factors like the distance to bus stops and the availability of accessible routes in the immediate vicinity of medical facilities need to be considered. For individuals with disabilities, careful planning is essential to ensure a seamless and accessible journey.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the 33547 area. They offer a convenient, on-demand transportation alternative. However, the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. Patients should factor in the expense of these services when budgeting for healthcare-related transportation.

Medical transportation services are another option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation provide door-to-door service for patients needing assistance. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. However, it is important to research and compare the services offered by different providers, including their costs, insurance coverage, and reliability.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just about drive times and transportation options; it's about understanding the overall healthcare access landscape. For residents of 33547, the availability of specialized breast cancer care is a primary concern. This includes access to oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals.

The proximity of cancer centers like Brandon Regional Hospital and Tampa General Hospital is a significant advantage. These facilities offer comprehensive breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services. However, the distance to these facilities highlights the need for robust transportation options.

**The Impact of Transportation on Care**

Transportation challenges can significantly impact the care of breast cancer patients. Missed appointments, delayed treatments, and increased stress levels are all potential consequences of inadequate transportation. Patients may have to rely on family members or friends for rides, which can strain relationships and create additional burdens.

The cost of transportation, whether it's gas, public transit fares, or ride-sharing fees, can also be a barrier to care. This is particularly true for patients with limited financial resources. Access to affordable and reliable transportation is, therefore, a critical factor in ensuring equitable healthcare access.

**Moving to Lithia and Healthcare Planning**

For those *moving to Lithia*, understanding the transportation landscape is essential for healthcare planning. Prospective residents should research the location of healthcare facilities, assess their transportation needs, and explore the available options. This includes considering the proximity of cancer centers, the availability of public transit, and the costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

When *moving to Lithia*, individuals should also investigate the availability of support services, such as patient navigators or social workers, who can assist with transportation arrangements and other healthcare-related needs. These resources can be invaluable in helping patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 33547 highlights the importance of transportation in accessing breast cancer care. While the area offers access to reputable healthcare facilities, the semi-rural nature of the community presents transportation challenges. Residents must carefully consider their transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services. By understanding the transportation landscape and planning accordingly, residents of 33547 can improve their healthcare access and navigate the journey to wellness with greater ease and confidence.