34950, Fort Pierce, Florida Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 34950, Fort Pierce, Florida is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.80 percent of residents in 34950 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Lawnwood Hospital with a distance of 1.31 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fort Pierce (ZIP Code 34950)

Considering a move to Fort Pierce, Florida (ZIP Code 34950)? Understanding healthcare access, particularly for a critical health concern like breast cancer, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport within and around this coastal community, offering insights for informed decision-making. This is especially relevant for those seeking a new home and prioritizing their well-being.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a hypothetical metric. It is designed to illustrate the ease or difficulty of accessing breast cancer-related healthcare services within a specific geographic area. This score considers factors like travel time, transportation availability, and the proximity of essential medical facilities. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Fort Pierce, nestled along the Atlantic coast, relies heavily on vehicular transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are the I-95, US-1, and the local thoroughfares. For residents in ZIP Code 34950, the nearest comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers are likely to be in Fort Pierce itself, or potentially in nearby cities like Vero Beach or Port St. Lucie.

Driving to the closest facilities, such as the HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce, via US-1, should take approximately 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The drive is generally straightforward. However, during peak hours, particularly on weekdays, congestion on US-1 can extend travel times. The I-95 offers a faster alternative, though access to it may require navigating local roads, potentially adding to the overall commute.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, residents might need to travel to larger hospitals in Vero Beach (about 30-45 minutes) or Port St. Lucie (approximately 45 minutes to an hour). These longer drives necessitate careful planning, especially for frequent appointments. The I-95 provides a quicker route to these locations, but traffic conditions remain a significant factor.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Fort Pierce is primarily handled by the St. Lucie County Transit (SLCT). The SLCT operates a network of bus routes, offering an alternative to driving. However, the system's coverage and frequency may present challenges for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Several routes, including those traversing US-1 and other major roads, could potentially connect residents of 34950 to healthcare facilities. However, the availability of direct routes and the overall travel time must be considered. The SLCT's website provides route maps, schedules, and information on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features.

For individuals with mobility limitations, the SLCT offers paratransit services, providing door-to-door transportation. These services require advance booking and may have limited availability. This is a crucial element of healthcare access for those with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Fort Pierce. They offer a convenient option for accessing healthcare facilities, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the distance, time of day, and demand. However, it provides a flexible transportation solution.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals needing assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Fort Pierce area, offering non-emergency medical transport. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. This is particularly important for patients undergoing treatment who may have mobility challenges or require additional support.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the Fort Pierce area. These include, but are not limited to, companies like First Choice Medical Transport, Medical Transportation Services of Florida, and others. These services require advance booking and often involve coordination with healthcare providers.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 34950 would be moderate. The area offers a range of transportation options, but each has limitations. Driving provides the most direct access to healthcare facilities, but traffic congestion can impact travel times. Public transportation is available but may require longer travel times and transfers. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide convenient alternatives, but costs and availability should be considered.

**Factors Affecting the Score:**

Several factors influence the "Breast Cancer Score" and the overall ease of accessing healthcare. These include:

* **Proximity to medical facilities:** The distance to hospitals, cancer centers, and specialized clinics is a primary factor.
* **Transportation options:** The availability, frequency, and cost of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.
* **Traffic conditions:** Congestion on major roads can significantly impact travel times.
* **Individual needs:** Mobility limitations, financial constraints, and personal preferences influence transportation choices.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

For individuals considering moving to Fort Pierce, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial, especially for those with a history of breast cancer or other health concerns. Researching the locations of healthcare facilities, evaluating the accessibility of public transit, and exploring ride-sharing and medical transport options are essential steps.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a starting point for understanding healthcare access. It highlights the importance of considering transportation as a vital component of healthcare. By carefully evaluating these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their new home and ensure they have access to the care they need. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Fort Pierce and prioritizing healthcare access.