32040, Glen Saint Mary, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32040, Glen Saint Mary, Florida is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.06 percent of residents in 32040 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ed Fraser Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.47 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Glen Saint Mary (ZIP Code 32040)

Glen Saint Mary, Florida, a community nestled in the heart of Baker County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up will delve into the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 32040, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for current residents and those considering moving to Glen Saint Mary, especially if they require regular medical attention.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Glen Saint Mary is undoubtedly personal vehicle transportation. The town itself is relatively small, with limited public transit options. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Macclenny and Jacksonville, necessitating travel along major roadways. A significant portion of the population relies on cars, making the drive-time a crucial factor in assessing the Hypertension Score.

For residents in Glen Saint Mary, the most direct route to healthcare in Macclenny involves traveling east on **US-90**. Drive times to the major medical facilities in Macclenny, such as the Baker County Medical Center, typically range from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This short commute contributes positively to the Hypertension Score, providing relatively quick access to essential medical services.

Venturing further afield to Jacksonville, the journey becomes significantly more complex. The primary route involves heading east on **US-90** and then south on **Interstate 95 (I-95)**. The drive to major hospitals like UF Health Jacksonville or Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. This longer travel time negatively impacts the Hypertension Score, potentially delaying access to specialized care and increasing stress levels, a known contributor to elevated blood pressure.

Another option to Jacksonville involves taking **US-90** east to **US-1** and then south. This route, while offering a scenic alternative, is often slower due to traffic lights and lower speed limits. It is typically not recommended for urgent medical needs.

Public transportation options in and around Glen Saint Mary are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus service that directly serves the town. This lack of public transportation significantly diminishes the Hypertension Score for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. Those who are unable to drive, whether due to age, disability, or other factors, face considerable challenges in accessing healthcare.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides some limited services in the broader Jacksonville area. However, these routes are unlikely to be directly accessible from Glen Saint Mary without multiple transfers, making them impractical for most residents. The lack of ADA-accessible features on any potential route further compounds the difficulties for individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Glen Saint Mary, but their reliability and cost can be significant barriers to healthcare access. While these services offer a potential solution for those without personal vehicles, the availability of drivers can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of a ride-share to Jacksonville can be substantial, potentially making regular medical appointments financially burdensome.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, provide a crucial lifeline for individuals requiring emergency or non-emergency medical transportation. These services are equipped to handle patients with various medical needs, including those with mobility limitations or requiring specialized care during transit. However, the cost of medical transport can be high, and availability may be limited depending on the specific needs of the patient.

Considering all factors, the Hypertension Score for Glen Saint Mary can be assessed. The relatively short drive to Macclenny contributes positively, while the longer commute to Jacksonville and the absence of reliable public transportation negatively impact the score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some mitigation, but the cost and reliability remain concerns.

For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to quickly and easily access medical care is paramount. The longer travel times to Jacksonville, coupled with the lack of public transit, pose significant challenges. Those considering moving to Glen Saint Mary should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation options.

The overall Hypertension Score for Glen Saint Mary, therefore, is moderate. While the proximity to Macclenny offers convenient access to basic medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create barriers for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some solutions, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

Future initiatives to improve healthcare access in Glen Saint Mary could include exploring partnerships with the JTA to extend public transportation routes or subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments. Promoting telehealth options and expanding local healthcare services would also significantly improve the Hypertension Score and overall quality of life for residents.

Ultimately, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for residents of Glen Saint Mary, particularly those with hypertension. The ability to navigate the roads and access healthcare facilities directly impacts their ability to manage their condition effectively. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring the well-being of the community.