33947, Rotonda West, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33947, Rotonda West, Florida is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.65 percent of residents in 33947 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Englewood Hospital with a distance of 4.93 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rotonda West (ZIP Code 33947)**

The sun-drenched shores and tranquil canals of Rotonda West, Florida (ZIP code 33947), beckon those seeking a slower pace of life. Yet, alongside the promise of coastal serenity, prospective residents must consider a crucial aspect of their well-being: healthcare access, particularly for a disease as prevalent as breast cancer. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score," delves into the transportation landscape, examining the ease of reaching essential medical services for individuals residing in this southwestern Florida community. It is particularly relevant for those contemplating moving to Rotonda West, as it directly impacts their healthcare journey.

The score considers the time and effort required to reach breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment facilities. This involves assessing various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the logistical challenges and opportunities that residents face when navigating their healthcare needs.

**The Importance of Transportation in Healthcare Access**

Transportation is a fundamental determinant of healthcare access. For those diagnosed with breast cancer, timely and consistent access to medical appointments, chemotherapy sessions, radiation therapy, and post-operative care is paramount. Delays or difficulties in reaching these services can significantly impact treatment outcomes and overall quality of life. This is especially true in areas like Rotonda West, where the suburban layout and limited public transportation options can pose challenges.

The Breast Cancer Score aims to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It is a resource for prospective residents and a tool for current residents to understand the transportation landscape and navigate the complexities of healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation in Rotonda West is the personal vehicle. The community is situated in a predominantly car-dependent environment, which means that driving times to healthcare facilities are critical. Residents rely on a network of highways and roads to reach medical appointments.

The closest hospitals and cancer centers are located in Port Charlotte and Englewood. Driving to these facilities involves navigating several key roadways. From Rotonda West, residents typically travel north on **SR 776 (Englewood Road)**, a major thoroughfare connecting the community to Englewood and beyond. This road can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

To reach Port Charlotte, residents often utilize **SR 776** and then transition to **US 41 (Tamiami Trail)**, a major north-south artery. This route offers access to various medical facilities, including hospitals and cancer centers. The drive time to Port Charlotte can range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel further afield. The drive to Sarasota, which boasts a more comprehensive range of medical specialists and facilities, can take approximately one hour via **I-75**. This interstate highway provides a faster route but can also be subject to heavy traffic, especially during tourist season.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the average drive times to these key destinations, factoring in potential traffic delays and the distance from various locations within Rotonda West. It also considers the availability of parking at these facilities, as parking can be a significant challenge in some areas.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in Rotonda West are limited. The Charlotte County Public Transportation system offers bus services, but these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. This lack of robust public transit presents a challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to medical conditions.

The primary bus route serving the area is the **Route 10 (Englewood/Port Charlotte)**. This route runs along **SR 776** and provides access to some medical facilities in Englewood and Port Charlotte. However, the frequency of the buses is limited, and the routes may not always align with the schedules of medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. The Charlotte County Public Transportation system is committed to providing accessible services, with all buses equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still pose challenges for those relying on public transportation.

The Breast Cancer Score evaluates the accessibility and practicality of public transportation options for accessing breast cancer-related healthcare services. It assesses the frequency of bus routes, the distance to bus stops from residential areas, and the overall ease of use for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation alternative. These services are readily available in Rotonda West, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with frequent appointments.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services offer a range of options, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel. Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including **Medicaid Transportation**, **Care Ride**, and **First Transit**.

The Breast Cancer Score evaluates the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It considers the average wait times for ride-sharing services, the pricing structures of medical transport companies, and the availability of accessible vehicles.

**The Breast Cancer Score Methodology**

The Breast Cancer Score is a composite measure that considers several factors:

* **Driving Times:** Average drive times to key healthcare facilities, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transportation Access:** Frequency of bus routes, distance to bus stops, and ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Average wait times and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability, pricing, and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Cancer Centers:** The distance to specialized cancer treatment facilities.

The score is presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better healthcare access. The score will be regularly updated to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, public transit services, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport options.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

The Breast Cancer Score for Rotonda West (ZIP code 33947) provides a valuable resource for individuals considering moving to the area or those already residing there. By understanding the transportation landscape and the challenges and opportunities it presents, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The score highlights the importance of careful planning and the need to consider all available transportation options when navigating the healthcare system. It is a vital tool for anyone seeking to prioritize their health and well-being in this beautiful but car-dependent community. It is a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Rotonda West.