33637, Tampa, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33637, Tampa, Florida is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.43 percent of residents in 33637 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tampa Va Medical Center with a distance of 4.08 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 33637**

Moving to Tampa, particularly to ZIP code 33637, necessitates a thoughtful consideration of healthcare access, especially for those seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare facilities, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge to navigate the system effectively, ensuring timely and convenient access to vital medical services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation factors impacting healthcare access. It acknowledges the unique challenges faced by individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, including fatigue, mobility limitations, and the emotional toll of the disease. Therefore, the evaluation prioritizes ease of access, minimizing travel time, and offering diverse transportation options.

**Driving Times: The Road to Care**

The primary arteries of transportation in 33637, including the Veterans Expressway (SR 589), Gunn Highway, and Hillsborough Avenue, shape the accessibility of healthcare facilities. Drive times are significantly influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. For residents, a quick trip to a medical appointment can quickly become a stressful and time-consuming endeavor.

From the heart of 33637, a drive to the Moffitt Cancer Center, a nationally recognized cancer treatment facility, typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes via the Veterans Expressway. This assumes moderate traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, the journey can extend to 30 minutes or longer, adding considerable stress to an already challenging situation.

Other key healthcare providers, such as AdventHealth Tampa and Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, are also accessible by car. AdventHealth Tampa, located near Fletcher Avenue, is generally a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on the specific location within 33637 and traffic conditions on Hillsborough Avenue or Bruce B. Downs Boulevard. Florida Cancer Specialists, with multiple locations in the Tampa area, offers varying drive times depending on the chosen clinic, but most locations are accessible within 20 to 30 minutes.

Navigating the local roads like Sheldon Road, Ehrlich Road, and Anderson Road is crucial for accessing smaller clinics and specialist offices. These routes, while offering more direct access, are often subject to congestion, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. Residents should factor in these variables when planning their commutes.

**Public Transit: A Network of Routes**

The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides public transportation options within 33637 and the surrounding areas. While HART offers a network of bus routes, the accessibility to healthcare facilities can be limited, especially for individuals with mobility challenges or those residing in areas with infrequent service.

Several HART routes serve the 33637 area, including routes 30, 32, and 36. These routes provide access to major thoroughfares like Hillsborough Avenue and Gunn Highway, which, in turn, connect to hospitals and medical centers. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. HART buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the distance from bus stops to medical facilities can still pose challenges. Individuals with mobility limitations should carefully plan their routes and consider the walking distance involved.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Supplemental Support**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient alternatives to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to and from healthcare appointments, eliminating the need to rely on public transit schedules or navigate traffic.

The availability of ride-sharing services in 33637 is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a concern, particularly for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources. Individuals should factor in the cost of ride-sharing when planning their healthcare transportation.

Medical transportation services, such as Access Mobility, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers to assist with transportation to and from medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance with medical equipment. However, these services often require advance booking, and availability may be limited. Residents should research and pre-arrange medical transportation as needed.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 33637 indicates a moderate level of healthcare access. Driving times to major healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, but traffic congestion can significantly impact commute times. Public transit options exist, but frequency and accessibility limitations may pose challenges. Ride-sharing services offer convenient alternatives, but cost is a consideration. Medical transportation services provide specialized support for those with specific needs.

Moving to Tampa and residing in 33637 requires a proactive approach to healthcare access. Residents should carefully consider their individual transportation needs, research available options, and plan their commutes accordingly. By understanding the transportation landscape and utilizing available resources, individuals can navigate the healthcare system effectively and ensure timely access to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.