32079, Penney Farms, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32079, Penney Farms, Florida is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 32079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent's Clay County with a distance of 9.11 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Penney Farms, Florida (ZIP Code 32079)

Penney Farms, Florida, a haven for retirees, presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. The ability to readily and reliably access medical care, including routine check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments, is critical for effectively managing this chronic condition. This write-up explores the transportation landscape in and around ZIP code 32079, evaluating the options available to residents and ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing vital healthcare services.

The very essence of healthcare access hinges on transportation. For residents of Penney Farms, the geographical reality is one of relative isolation. The town itself is small, nestled in a predominantly rural area of Clay County. This means that while the immediate surroundings offer a peaceful environment, accessing specialized medical care often necessitates travel to larger population centers like Jacksonville or Orange Park. This is where the complexities of the local transportation network come into play, directly impacting the "Hypertension Score."

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Driving remains the most flexible and convenient option, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those who require frequent medical appointments. However, drive times are a crucial factor. From Penney Farms, the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in Orange Park or Jacksonville, requiring travel on major roadways.

To reach the closest major medical facilities, residents typically utilize **US-17** and **State Road 21**. Driving south on US-17 offers access to Orange Park Medical Center, a journey that can take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading north on US-17 or taking SR-21 can lead to Jacksonville, where a wider range of hospitals and specialist practices are available. This commute can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour or more, especially during peak traffic hours. The condition of the roadways and potential for traffic congestion, particularly on US-17, directly influence the reliability of transportation and, consequently, the ability to adhere to scheduled appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in Penney Farms and the surrounding areas. The **Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA)** provides bus service, but the routes serving the area are infrequent and may not directly connect Penney Farms with major healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for residents with mobility impairments. While the JTA strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency of routes and the potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges for individuals with hypertension, who may require prompt medical attention or regular check-ups. The lack of robust public transportation significantly lowers the "Hypertension Score" for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Penney Farms and the surrounding rural areas can be inconsistent. Ride-sharing fares can also be a significant expense, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, coupled with the cost factor, needs careful consideration when evaluating healthcare access. The reliance on ride-sharing, even if available, can add an element of uncertainty to the process of accessing medical care, impacting the "Hypertension Score."

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like **Firstat Nursing Services** or **American Medical Response (AMR)** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals who are unable to drive or who have mobility limitations. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, further impacting the overall "Hypertension Score."

The decision to move to Penney Farms, while appealing for its tranquility and community, demands a careful assessment of healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, the transportation challenges are considerable. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services all contribute to a complex landscape.

The "Hypertension Score" for Penney Farms, therefore, reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While residents with personal vehicles can reach medical facilities within a reasonable timeframe, the lack of robust public transportation options and the potential for traffic congestion on major roadways pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative solutions, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

The "Hypertension Score" is also influenced by the distance to pharmacies for medication refills. The availability of local pharmacies in Penney Farms is limited, often requiring residents to travel to Orange Park or Jacksonville. This further adds to the transportation burden and emphasizes the importance of reliable access to medication.

In conclusion, residents of Penney Farms, particularly those managing hypertension, must proactively plan for their transportation needs to ensure consistent and timely access to healthcare. Understanding the limitations of the local transportation network, exploring available options, and considering the potential costs associated with each mode of transport are crucial steps in optimizing healthcare access and effectively managing this chronic condition. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of transportation in healthcare and underscores the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in rural communities.