32118, Daytona Beach, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32118, Daytona Beach, Florida is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.50 percent of residents in 32118 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Health Medical Center with a distance of 3.17 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 32118

The journey to healthcare in Daytona Beach's 32118 ZIP code is a multifaceted one, particularly for residents managing hypertension. Factors such as transportation options, drive times, and accessibility profoundly impact the ability to receive timely and consistent medical care, critical for managing this prevalent condition. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, examining the transportation landscape and its implications for healthcare access.

The 32118 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Daytona Beach, a city experiencing a population influx. This growth, coupled with an aging demographic, intensifies the need for accessible healthcare. For individuals with hypertension, regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments are paramount. Transportation challenges can become significant barriers to optimal health outcomes.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary arteries for transportation in 32118 are Interstate 95 (I-95), U.S. Route 92 (International Speedway Boulevard), and U.S. Route 1. These roadways serve as the backbone of the city's transportation network. Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on the location within the ZIP code and the destination.

Traveling to AdventHealth Daytona Beach, a major healthcare provider, from the western edge of 32118, may involve a 20-30 minute drive, especially during peak hours. This journey typically utilizes U.S. 92, followed by a connection to a local road. Similarly, reaching Halifax Health Medical Center, another prominent facility, might require a similar drive time, utilizing U.S. 1 and local streets.

Traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour and special events at the Daytona International Speedway, can significantly extend these drive times, adding stress for patients and potentially delaying critical care. The condition of the roads, including potholes and construction, also impacts travel times and the comfort of the journey.

**Public Transit: The Bus Route Realities**

The Volusia County Transportation Authority (Votran) provides public transportation within Daytona Beach. Several bus routes serve the 32118 area, offering an alternative to private vehicles. Route 1, Route 4, and Route 10 are particularly relevant, connecting various points within the ZIP code to healthcare facilities and other essential services.

However, public transit in Daytona Beach faces challenges. Route frequency can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends, potentially restricting access to appointments and follow-up care. While Votran strives to provide ADA-accessible buses with features like ramps and priority seating, reliance on public transit can still be time-consuming and may require multiple transfers, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in areas with limited route coverage.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering a more convenient alternative to public transit or driving. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments, posing a financial burden for some individuals.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other specialized providers, cater to patients with specific medical needs, including those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. These services are essential for individuals unable to utilize other transportation options, but they often involve higher costs and require prior arrangements.

**The Hypertension Score: A Transportation-Based Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for 32118 considers the interplay of these transportation factors. It's a composite measure reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can access healthcare, particularly for those managing hypertension. The score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Times:** Longer drive times, especially during peak hours, negatively impact the score. Proximity to healthcare facilities is crucial.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Frequent and reliable bus routes, with ADA accessibility, improve the score. Limited service and multiple transfers lower it.
* **Ride-Sharing Affordability:** The cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing impacts the score, particularly for those with limited financial resources.
* **Medical Transport Access:** The availability and affordability of specialized medical transport services positively influence the score for individuals with specific needs.
* **Road Conditions:** Well-maintained roads and minimal traffic congestion contribute to a higher score.

**Implications for Residents and those Moving to Daytona Beach**

For residents of 32118 with hypertension, the transportation landscape significantly influences their ability to manage their condition effectively. Regular medical appointments, medication refills, and access to specialized care are all impacted by transportation challenges.

For those considering moving to Daytona Beach, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions, understanding the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the affordability of ride-sharing services should be considered during the relocation process.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the "Hypertension Score" for 32118 requires a multi-pronged approach:

* **Enhanced Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency and coverage of Votran bus routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, and expanding ADA-accessible services.
* **Traffic Management:** Implementing traffic-calming measures and optimizing traffic flow on major roadways, especially during peak hours and special events.
* **Ride-Sharing Subsidies:** Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for low-income residents or those with chronic conditions.
* **Healthcare Facility Accessibility:** Ensuring healthcare facilities are easily accessible by public transit and offer ample parking.
* **Patient Education:** Providing patients with hypertension education on transportation options, including ride-sharing apps and medical transport services.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Daytona Beach can improve healthcare access for residents of 32118, particularly those managing hypertension, and create a healthier, more livable community. This commitment to improving transportation options is vital for attracting new residents and ensuring the well-being of existing ones.