33565, Plant City, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33565, Plant City, Florida is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.63 percent of residents in 33565 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Florida Baptist Hospital with a distance of 3.61 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plant City (ZIP Code 33565)**

Deciding to relocate, especially when considering healthcare needs, demands a thorough understanding of available resources. For those contemplating a move to Plant City, Florida (ZIP Code 33565), assessing access to breast cancer care is crucial. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluates the ease of transportation to diagnostic and treatment facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is vital for informed decision-making, ensuring that healthcare access doesn't become an insurmountable obstacle.

The Breast Cancer Score begins with a foundational element: drive times. Plant City, a city characterized by its agricultural heritage and growing suburban communities, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Interstate 4 (I-4) and the east-west artery of State Road 60 (SR 60). Driving times to major healthcare providers specializing in breast cancer care in the Tampa Bay area are critical determinants of the score.

For instance, driving west on I-4 to Tampa General Hospital (TGH), a leading cancer center, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Morning and evening commutes often experience congestion, potentially extending travel times. Similarly, heading west on SR 60 to facilities in Brandon, like the HCA Florida South Tampa Hospital, could take 20 to 30 minutes, also subject to traffic. The presence of alternative routes, such as County Road 39 (CR 39) and Park Road, offers some relief from traffic, but these roads are often slower.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the accessibility of public transportation. Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides bus service to Plant City. However, public transit options are limited, and direct routes to major hospitals are often unavailable. Passengers would likely need to transfer, increasing travel time significantly.

For example, a bus route might connect Plant City to downtown Tampa, requiring a subsequent transfer to reach a hospital. The frequency of these routes, the potential for delays, and the availability of ADA-compliant buses are all factors that influence the score. While HART strives to provide accessible transportation, the limited coverage in Plant City and the need for transfers can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation mode. Their availability in Plant City is generally good, but pricing can fluctuate based on demand and distance. A ride to Tampa General Hospital could cost upwards of $50 to $75, making it a potentially expensive option for frequent appointments. This cost factor is weighed in the Breast Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, impacts the score. The availability of specialized ride-sharing services, such as those equipped to accommodate medical equipment or provide assistance to patients with disabilities, also plays a role. These specialized services are not always readily available in the Plant City area.

Medical transport services are another critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services, such as Firstat Nursing Services or Medical Transport Services, are designed to provide transportation for individuals who cannot drive themselves but do not require an ambulance.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability of these services, their pricing, and their responsiveness. The ability of these services to accommodate specific medical needs, such as oxygen tanks or wheelchairs, is also factored in. However, these services often require advance booking, and their availability can be limited, particularly during peak hours or on weekends.

The Breast Cancer Score also accounts for the proximity of local healthcare facilities. While Plant City has local clinics and medical centers, they may not offer comprehensive breast cancer care, including specialized diagnostic services like mammograms or advanced treatments such as radiation therapy. Therefore, the score must reflect the necessity of traveling to larger hospitals and cancer centers in the Tampa Bay area.

The availability of support services within Plant City, such as cancer support groups or patient navigators, can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. These services can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and guidance through the healthcare system. However, the absence of these support services would negatively affect the Breast Cancer Score.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that considers various factors. The score is designed to help individuals moving to Plant City understand the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer care. The score considers the impact of traffic on I-4 and SR 60, the limitations of HART bus routes, the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score aims to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access in Plant City, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This score is an essential tool for anyone considering moving to Plant City, ensuring that they can prioritize their health and well-being in their new community. The score highlights the importance of careful planning, recognizing that access to breast cancer care is a critical factor when choosing a place to live.