The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33936, Lehigh Acres, Florida is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
29.40 percent of residents in 33936 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.10 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 33936, Lehigh Acres, Florida
Breast Cancer Score | 48 |
---|---|
People Score | 6 |
Provider Score | 68 |
Hospital Score | 56 |
Travel Score | 59 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 33936 | Lehigh Acres | Florida |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.19 | 1.23 | 2.68 |
1 Car | 17.60 | 15.97 | 22.58 |
2 Cars | 47.70 | 42.01 | 44.13 |
3 or More Cars | 32.50 | 40.79 | 30.62 |
Vehicular Access in 33936, Lehigh Acres, Florida
## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lehigh Acres (ZIP Code 33936)
The sun-drenched landscape of Lehigh Acres, Florida, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount in this context, as it directly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely and comprehensive care. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 33936, evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services, with a specific focus on transportation options.
Lehigh Acres, a sprawling community east of Fort Myers, offers a blend of suburban and rural living. The community is experiencing significant growth, with a corresponding increase in the need for healthcare services. This growth necessitates a careful examination of how residents, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, can reach essential medical appointments. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.
**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**
The primary roadways serving Lehigh Acres are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities. The primary artery is **Lee Boulevard**, a major east-west thoroughfare that connects Lehigh Acres to Fort Myers and other surrounding areas. Driving times to major medical centers in Fort Myers, such as Lee Health's facilities, are a critical factor. During peak hours, traffic congestion on Lee Boulevard can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting a patient's ability to arrive on time for appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation treatments.
Other important roads include **Homestead Road**, which offers a north-south route through the community, and **Hwy 82 (Palm Beach Blvd)**, which provides a more direct route west toward Fort Myers. The condition of these roads, including potholes and ongoing construction projects, can further complicate travel, particularly for patients with physical limitations. The distance to the nearest hospital, cancer center, and specialist offices is a crucial element in determining the "Breast Cancer Score."
**Public Transit: Navigating the Network of Buses**
Public transportation options in Lehigh Acres are limited but essential for those without personal vehicles. The LeeTran bus system provides service within the community and to Fort Myers. Several bus routes serve Lehigh Acres, with Route 100 being a key connector to Fort Myers. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for patients with disabilities.
The frequency of bus service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, is a significant factor. Long wait times between buses can make it difficult to schedule and attend medical appointments. The distance from bus stops to medical facilities is another important consideration. Ideally, bus stops should be conveniently located near cancer centers, imaging facilities, and physician offices. The "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the efficiency and accessibility of the LeeTran system for breast cancer patients.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who may not be able to drive or prefer not to. However, the availability of these services in Lehigh Acres can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Surge pricing during peak hours can also be a financial burden for patients.
Specialized medical transportation services are designed to meet the specific needs of patients with medical conditions. Companies like Logisticare and ModivCare (formerly MTM) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require prior authorization and can be subject to eligibility requirements. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the availability, cost, and ease of access to these specialized transportation services.
**Medical Transportation Brands: A Deeper Dive**
Several medical transportation brands operate in the Fort Myers area, including Lehigh Acres. Logisticare and ModivCare are common providers, often contracted by insurance companies or government programs. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and assistance for patients with mobility limitations.
Other providers, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and private ambulance companies, may be used for emergency transportation or for patients requiring a higher level of medical care during transport. The "Breast Cancer Score" evaluates the availability and accessibility of these services, considering factors like wait times, vehicle availability, and the ability to accommodate specific medical needs.
**The "Breast Cancer Score" Calculation**
The "Breast Cancer Score" is a composite metric that considers several factors:
* **Drive Time:** Average drive time to the nearest hospital with a comprehensive cancer center, the nearest radiation oncology facility, and the nearest breast imaging center.
* **Public Transit:** Frequency of bus service, the proximity of bus stops to medical facilities, and the availability of ADA-accessible buses.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability and cost of Uber and Lyft services, particularly during peak hours and off-peak times.
* **Medical Transportation:** Availability, cost, and eligibility requirements for Logisticare, ModivCare, and other specialized medical transportation services.
* **Proximity of Services:** The number of breast cancer specialists, support groups, and other relevant resources within a reasonable distance.
Each factor is assigned a weight based on its relative importance to healthcare access. The overall score is then calculated, providing a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape for breast cancer patients in Lehigh Acres.
**Impact on Moving to Lehigh Acres**
For individuals considering moving to Lehigh Acres, the "Breast Cancer Score" offers valuable insights into the healthcare access landscape. It highlights the importance of considering transportation options when choosing a location, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or those who may be at higher risk of developing breast cancer.
The score also emphasizes the need for community resources and support services. The availability of local support groups, patient navigators, and other resources can help patients navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Understanding the transportation challenges and having access to reliable transportation options are essential for ensuring timely and effective care.
**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Care**
The "Breast Cancer Score" for Lehigh Acres (ZIP code 33936) serves as a critical tool for assessing healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer patients. By carefully evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist. This analysis is crucial for empowering patients, informing healthcare providers, and advocating for improved transportation infrastructure and resources. The goal is to ensure that all residents of Lehigh Acres, regardless of their transportation limitations, can access the life-saving care they need.
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