33786, Belleair Beach, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33786, Belleair Beach, Florida is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.51 percent of residents in 33786 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Largo Hospital with a distance of 2.14 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 33786 – Belleair Beach**

The prospect of relocating to the serene shores of Belleair Beach, Florida (ZIP Code 33786), often conjures images of tranquil sunsets and gentle ocean breezes. However, before making such a significant life change, especially for individuals with a heightened awareness of healthcare needs, it’s crucial to assess the accessibility of essential medical services, including those related to breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This "Breast Cancer Score" provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and healthcare access within and around 33786, ensuring informed decision-making.

The very essence of healthcare access hinges on the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. In Belleair Beach, the primary mode of personal transportation is undoubtedly the automobile. The area is served by several key roadways, each playing a vital role in connecting residents to healthcare providers. Gulf Boulevard, a scenic coastal route, offers direct access to some local clinics, but its often-congested nature during peak seasons can significantly impact drive times.

The primary artery for navigating the region is the **Indian Rocks Road**, which runs east-west, connecting Belleair Beach to major thoroughfares like **US-19**. This highway, a major north-south corridor, provides access to a wider range of medical facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics. The **Park Street** and **Belleair Causeway** also offer alternative routes, though they can be subject to traffic delays, particularly during rush hour and tourist season.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. For instance, a routine mammogram at a clinic along Gulf Boulevard might be a relatively short drive, perhaps 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. However, reaching a comprehensive cancer center, such as those located in Clearwater or St. Petersburg, could take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, especially during peak commuting hours. These drive times are crucial considerations, especially for individuals undergoing frequent treatments or facing urgent medical needs.

Public transportation presents another facet of the transportation landscape. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) provides bus service throughout the county, including routes that serve Belleair Beach. While the PSTA network offers a viable alternative to driving, it's essential to evaluate the specific routes and their proximity to healthcare facilities.

Bus route **78** is a key route. It runs along Gulf Boulevard, offering direct access to some clinics and pharmacies. However, relying solely on this route may limit options for specialized care. Route **18**, running along Indian Rocks Road, provides access to US-19 and connections to other routes that can lead to larger medical centers.

It's essential to assess the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of PSTA buses. All PSTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, it's also important to factor in the wait times and potential transfer delays associated with public transit, which can significantly extend travel times.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services are readily available in the Belleair Beach area and can provide a convenient alternative to driving or using public transit. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance.

For individuals needing specialized medical transport, several companies operate in the region. These services are designed to provide transportation for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Medical transport services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles.

The availability of these services can be a significant advantage for individuals with mobility limitations or those who are unable to drive themselves. It's essential to research the specific medical transport providers available in the area, including their service areas, pricing, and types of vehicles offered.

Healthcare access is not just about transportation; it also encompasses the availability of healthcare providers. The Belleair Beach area has a mix of local clinics, primary care physicians, and pharmacies. However, access to specialized cancer care, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, may require traveling to larger medical centers in Clearwater or St. Petersburg.

The proximity of hospitals is another crucial factor. Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater is a major healthcare provider, offering a comprehensive range of medical services, including cancer care. BayCare Health System also operates several hospitals in the region, providing additional options for healthcare.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for 33786, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, healthcare access requires careful consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic congestion, and the need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized care are all factors that influence the score.

The availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options adds flexibility, but they may not always be ideal for every individual. The score is also affected by the availability of healthcare providers in the immediate area and the proximity of major hospitals.

Moving to Belleair Beach requires thoughtful planning. Individuals considering a move to the area should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs, assess the available transportation options, and research the proximity of healthcare providers. This comprehensive approach will enable informed decision-making and ensure that healthcare access aligns with their individual requirements. By understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access in 33786, prospective residents can make an informed decision about whether Belleair Beach is the right place to call home.