33704, Saint Petersburg, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33704, Saint Petersburg, Florida is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.75 percent of residents in 33704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Anthonys Hospital with a distance of 1.46 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 33704**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex undertaking. In ZIP code 33704, a vibrant area within Saint Petersburg, Florida, the accessibility of crucial medical services hinges on effective transportation. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the ease with which residents can reach diagnostic centers, treatment facilities, and support services, considering the available transportation options. Understanding these factors is critical for anyone considering moving to Saint Petersburg, especially those with a heightened awareness of healthcare needs.

The Breast Cancer Score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in accessing breast cancer healthcare within the 33704 area. This score is not a definitive measure of healthcare quality, but a gauge of the logistical hurdles that may impact a patient’s ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary artery for vehicular transportation in 33704 is the I-275, a crucial highway that facilitates rapid movement throughout the Tampa Bay area. Driving times to major healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by traffic conditions, particularly during peak commuting hours. Accessing the Moffitt Cancer Center, a renowned institution, from 33704 via I-275 can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the time of day.

Another important route is US-19, a major north-south thoroughfare. While offering more direct access to some local clinics and hospitals, it often experiences heavy traffic congestion, especially near the Tyrone Square Mall. Travel times to facilities along US-19 can vary considerably, potentially adding significant stress to patients already dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Smaller roads like 4th Street North and 34th Street North provide alternative routes, but they are often subject to traffic lights and slower speeds.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag**

The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) provides public transportation within the county, offering a network of bus routes. Several routes serve the 33704 area, providing potential access to healthcare facilities. Route 18, for example, travels along 4th Street North, connecting to various points within Saint Petersburg, including some medical offices. Route 34, another key route, runs along 34th Street North, offering access to hospitals and clinics.

However, public transit presents challenges. Bus schedules may not always align with appointment times, and travel times can be considerably longer than driving. Accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is a crucial consideration. PSTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the distance from bus stops to medical facilities can still pose a barrier for some patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to both driving and public transportation. They provide on-demand transportation, allowing patients to schedule rides directly to their appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Specialized medical transport services cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist with mobility and other needs. Companies like Logisticare and ModivCare are prominent in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often covered by insurance, but availability can sometimes be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Analyzing the Breast Cancer Score**

The Breast Cancer Score for 33704 is a composite measure, weighing the various transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit reliability, ride-sharing costs, and the availability of medical transport services. A higher score indicates greater ease of access to healthcare facilities.

The presence of I-275 and US-19 offers quick access to healthcare facilities, but the traffic can be a barrier. PSTA provides an affordable alternative, but the travel times and accessibility considerations are significant. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be costly. Medical transport services fill a critical need, but their availability is a factor.

**Implications for Moving to Saint Petersburg**

For individuals considering moving to Saint Petersburg, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or other health concerns, understanding the Breast Cancer Score is essential. It allows prospective residents to assess the practicality of accessing healthcare services from different locations within the city. Proximity to major roads, the availability of public transit, and the presence of medical transport services are all crucial factors to consider.

Choosing a location within 33704 that offers easy access to multiple transportation options can significantly improve a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. This includes considering the proximity to major hospitals like Bayfront Health St. Petersburg, as well as access to smaller clinics and diagnostic centers.

**Conclusion**

Navigating healthcare access in 33704 requires careful consideration of transportation options. The Breast Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating the challenges and opportunities in this area. By understanding the drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, residents and prospective movers can make informed decisions about their healthcare access. This understanding is particularly crucial for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, ensuring they can focus on their health and well-being.