34614, Brooksville, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 34614, Brooksville, Florida is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.24 percent of residents in 34614 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Oak Hill Hospital with a distance of 6.95 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 34614

Considering a move to Brooksville, Florida, within ZIP Code 34614? Understanding the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare is paramount. This analysis provides a “Breast Cancer Score,” a composite measure reflecting the ease of accessing diagnostic and treatment facilities, crucial for early detection and successful outcomes. This score considers transportation options, drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, all essential components of healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a formal medical assessment. Instead, it is an informed perspective on the practical challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer healthcare from your potential new home. It considers the crucial role of transportation in timely care, a factor often overlooked but critical in the fight against this disease.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The dominant mode of transportation in 34614 is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary factor in our Breast Cancer Score. The primary arteries connecting Brooksville to specialized care are US-41, SR-50, and the Suncoast Parkway (SR-589).

For diagnostic mammograms and initial consultations, the closest options include Bayfront Health Brooksville, located in the heart of the city. Drive times from various points within 34614 are typically under 15 minutes, making this facility a convenient first step. However, for more specialized care, such as oncology services, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions, patients often need to travel to larger hospitals in surrounding areas.

Tampa, approximately 50 miles south, is a significant hub for advanced cancer care. Driving to Moffitt Cancer Center, a nationally recognized facility, via the Suncoast Parkway, can take approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic. The Suncoast Parkway offers a faster route than US-19, which can be congested, particularly during peak hours.

Similarly, AdventHealth Tampa, also in Tampa, is another option. The drive time, again via the Suncoast Parkway, is comparable to Moffitt, around an hour, but traffic conditions can influence this. Traffic on SR-50, especially east towards I-75, can be a bottleneck, potentially adding significant time to your commute.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation in 34614 is limited but offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Hernando County Transit (HCT) provides bus services within the county. However, these routes are primarily designed for local travel and may not directly serve major cancer centers in Tampa.

Route 1, for instance, travels along US-41, connecting Brooksville to Spring Hill. Route 2 serves SR-50, providing access to various commercial areas. While these routes might offer a partial solution for accessing local healthcare facilities, they are not ideal for long-distance travel to specialized cancer centers.

Accessibility for those with disabilities is a crucial consideration. HCT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the limited frequency and route coverage of the HCT system can pose challenges for patients requiring frequent appointments or facing mobility limitations.

For travel to Tampa, connecting to the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) system might be necessary. This would involve transferring from HCT to a HART bus, significantly increasing travel time and complexity.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 34614, offering a flexible transportation option. However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Patients relying on ride-sharing for transportation should factor these costs into their healthcare budget.

Medical transportation services are another option, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with travel. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and MedRide offer medical transportation in the Tampa Bay area. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Composite View**

The Breast Cancer Score for 34614 reflects the following:

* **Proximity to Local Facilities:** Brooksville offers local facilities, making initial screenings and consultations relatively accessible.
* **Reliance on Personal Vehicles:** The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, with drive times to specialized cancer centers in Tampa being the most significant factor.
* **Limited Public Transit:** The limited public transit options, while ADA-compliant, are not ideal for long-distance travel to specialized facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** These options provide flexibility but can be costly.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Moving to Brooksville, Florida, offers a lifestyle choice, but understanding healthcare access is crucial. While local facilities provide convenient access to initial screenings, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel to Tampa. The Breast Cancer Score for 34614 reflects a mixed bag. While local access is good, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration.

If you are considering moving to Brooksville and have a history of breast cancer or are at high risk, a thorough evaluation of your transportation needs and financial resources is essential. Explore all transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services. Consider the potential costs and logistical challenges associated with accessing specialized cancer care. This detailed understanding of healthcare access will empower you to make an informed decision about moving to Brooksville, ensuring that your healthcare needs are met. Remember, proactive planning and a clear understanding of your transportation options are vital components of healthcare access, allowing you to navigate the healthcare system with confidence.