33647, Tampa, Florida COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 33647, Tampa, Florida is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.01 percent of residents in 33647 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Wesley Chapel with a distance of 4.99 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 33647

The journey to healthcare, especially for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), can be a significant hurdle. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 33647 in Tampa, Florida, providing a "COPD Score" assessment. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, all crucial for individuals seeking healthcare access. Understanding these elements is vital for anyone considering moving to Tampa or already residing in this area and managing COPD.

ZIP Code 33647, encompassing parts of New Tampa, presents a unique challenge. While known for its suburban charm, the geographic spread and reliance on personal vehicles can complicate healthcare access. The COPD Score aims to illuminate the realities of transportation options, helping individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in 33647. Access to major hospitals and specialist clinics hinges on navigating the area's roadways. The primary arteries are Interstate 75 (I-75), Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, and Cross Creek Boulevard. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours.

Reaching AdventHealth Tampa, a major healthcare provider, from the heart of 33647 via I-75 can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic congestion. Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers a more direct route, but it is often heavily congested. Driving to Moffitt Cancer Center, another critical healthcare facility, typically requires a 15- to 30-minute drive via Bruce B. Downs Boulevard or I-75, again subject to traffic flow.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout the area offer shorter drive times. However, the concentration of healthcare facilities is not uniform, necessitating careful consideration of location when selecting a healthcare provider. For individuals with COPD, even short drives can be taxing, making traffic delays a significant concern. The COPD Score will reflect the variability in drive times, factoring in both distance and potential congestion.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides public transportation in the Tampa Bay area. However, its presence in 33647 is limited. Several bus routes, including Route 31 and Route 30, traverse portions of the ZIP code. Route 31 offers service along Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, connecting to the University of South Florida (USF) and, indirectly, to some healthcare facilities. Route 30 provides a more limited service.

The frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a major drawback. Waiting times can be substantial, making public transit less practical for those with COPD who may require frequent appointments or experience breathing difficulties. The accessibility of bus stops is also a consideration. While HART strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses and ramps, the distance from bus stops to homes or healthcare facilities can pose a challenge.

The COPD Score will evaluate the coverage and frequency of HART routes, as well as the accessibility features available. The score will also consider the potential for transfers, which can significantly extend travel times and increase the physical strain on individuals with COPD.

**Ride-Share Services: A Flexible Option**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option in 33647. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times and eliminating the need for parking. The availability of ride-share services is generally good in the Tampa area, and wait times are typically reasonable.

However, the cost of ride-share services can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments. The COPD Score will factor in the cost of ride-share services, considering the potential financial burden on individuals with COPD. Additionally, the reliability of ride-share services can vary, and availability may be limited during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

**Medical Transport: Specialized Support**

For individuals with COPD who require assistance with mobility or medical support during transport, medical transport services are available. These services range from basic non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to ambulance services.

Several medical transport companies operate in the Tampa Bay area, including companies like American Medical Response (AMR), and others. These services can provide transportation to and from healthcare appointments, offering specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. The COPD Score will assess the availability and cost of medical transport services in 33647. It will also consider the ease of scheduling and the range of services offered.

**Healthcare Access: The Ultimate Goal**

The COPD Score for 33647 will be a composite assessment, weighing the factors discussed above. The score will reflect the challenges and opportunities for individuals with COPD seeking healthcare access in this area. The score will consider the following:

* **Drive Times:** Average drive times to major healthcare facilities, considering traffic congestion.
* **Public Transit:** Coverage, frequency, and accessibility of HART routes.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Cost and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability, cost, and range of services offered by medical transport companies.

The COPD Score will provide a valuable tool for individuals with COPD considering moving to Tampa, or for those already residing in 33647. It will empower them to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey, ensuring they can access the care they need while navigating the transportation landscape. This assessment aims to promote better healthcare access for all residents, especially those living with COPD, and to make the process of moving to Tampa a more informed one. The goal is to help people understand their healthcare access challenges and to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.