32117, Daytona Beach, Florida COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 32117, Daytona Beach, Florida is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.88 percent of residents in 32117 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Health Medical Center with a distance of 2.58 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Daytona Beach (ZIP Code 32117)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), every breath counts. Access to timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up provides a detailed COPD Score assessment for residents of ZIP Code 32117 in Daytona Beach, Florida, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, a critical factor impacting quality of life and disease management. Considering a move to Daytona Beach? Understanding these transportation realities is essential.

Daytona Beach, a city known for its beaches and vibrant atmosphere, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The 32117 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of the city, including residential areas and commercial hubs. Evaluating transportation options requires a nuanced understanding of the local infrastructure, including highways, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport.

**Driving Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Access**

The primary roadways serving 32117 are US-1 (North Atlantic Avenue), a major north-south artery, and International Speedway Boulevard (ISB), a critical east-west thoroughfare. US-1, while offering direct access to many healthcare facilities, can experience significant traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and tourist seasons. Driving times to healthcare providers along US-1 can vary significantly, potentially increasing stress for COPD patients.

ISB, another crucial route, provides access to several hospitals and clinics. However, the volume of traffic on ISB can also be a concern. Further, the presence of numerous traffic lights and intersections along both US-1 and ISB can add to travel time and exacerbate breathing difficulties for COPD patients. Smaller roads like Beville Road and Nova Road offer alternative routes, but may involve more turns and potentially increase travel distances.

For example, a drive from the northern part of 32117 to AdventHealth Daytona Beach, a major hospital, can take 15-25 minutes via US-1 or ISB, depending on traffic. Driving to Halifax Health Medical Center of Daytona Beach, another prominent facility, might require a similar travel time. Emergency situations demand immediate access, highlighting the importance of understanding these potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Breath of Fresh Air (or a Challenge?)**

Volusia County's public transit system, Votran, offers bus routes throughout Daytona Beach, including those serving 32117. Several routes provide access to healthcare facilities. Route 18, for instance, travels along ISB, connecting to various medical offices and hospitals. Route 1, running along US-1, also provides access to healthcare providers.

However, public transit presents its own set of challenges. Bus schedules may not align with appointments, and waiting times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours. Furthermore, individuals with COPD may find the physical exertion of navigating bus stops and boarding/disembarking difficult. While Votran buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, the overall accessibility of public transit requires careful consideration.

The availability of accessible bus stops and the distance from a residence to a bus stop are crucial factors. Understanding the frequency of bus service on specific routes is also critical. For example, a bus route running every 30 minutes is more convenient than one operating hourly. COPD patients must factor in the time required to reach a bus stop, wait for the bus, and then travel to their healthcare destination.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Assistance**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Daytona Beach, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate bus stops or manage parking. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like Access Transportation and First Medical Transport, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. While medical transport services provide a high level of care, they can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

Choosing the right transportation option depends on individual needs and financial resources. Ride-sharing may be suitable for occasional appointments, while medical transport might be necessary for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. The availability of these services, and their associated costs, must be factored into the COPD Score assessment.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Provider Availability**

The availability of healthcare providers within the 32117 ZIP code and the surrounding areas is a critical factor. The proximity of pulmonologists, primary care physicians, and respiratory therapists directly impacts healthcare access. The presence of hospitals with specialized respiratory care units is also essential.

AdventHealth Daytona Beach and Halifax Health Medical Center of Daytona Beach are the two major hospitals serving the area, both offering comprehensive medical services, including respiratory care. Numerous clinics and private practices are also available, providing a range of healthcare options.

However, the availability of specialists and the wait times for appointments can vary. Individuals with COPD should research the availability of pulmonologists and other specialists in the area before moving to Daytona Beach. Understanding the insurance coverage and the acceptance of new patients by local healthcare providers is also essential.

**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The COPD Score for 32117 is not a single number but a holistic assessment of transportation options and healthcare access. This assessment should consider drive times, public transit accessibility, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the overall cost of transportation.

For individuals with COPD, the ability to maintain regular appointments and access emergency care is crucial. This requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape. Moving to Daytona Beach, while offering a desirable lifestyle, demands a realistic evaluation of healthcare access.

The COPD Score should also factor in the individual's physical limitations, financial resources, and personal preferences. A person who can drive and afford ride-sharing may have a different score than someone who relies on public transit. The goal is to create a personalized plan that ensures timely and reliable access to healthcare, promoting a better quality of life for individuals managing COPD in Daytona Beach.