32137, Palm Coast, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32137, Palm Coast, Florida is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.18 percent of residents in 32137 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Florida Hospital Medical Group Inc with a distance of 6.99 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32137**

Palm Coast, Florida, a city renowned for its tranquil coastal living and burgeoning retirement community, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 32137, unveils the complexities of commuting to medical facilities for residents, particularly those managing hypertension, a chronic condition requiring consistent care. We will explore the transportation options available, evaluating their accessibility and efficiency to determine a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can reach vital healthcare services. This information is crucial for those considering moving to Palm Coast, especially individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

The primary arteries for transportation in Palm Coast are Interstate 95 (I-95) and US Highway 1. I-95, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides swift access to healthcare facilities located in neighboring cities like Daytona Beach to the south and Jacksonville to the north. However, relying on I-95 can be unpredictable. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and tourist season, can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting timely medical attention. US Highway 1, running parallel to the Intracoastal Waterway, offers a slower, more scenic route. It serves as a vital connection to local medical offices and facilities within Palm Coast, though it too can experience traffic delays, especially during periods of high tourism.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within and outside ZIP code 32137 vary considerably depending on the destination and time of day. Flagler Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, is accessible via both I-95 and US Highway 1. The drive time from central 32137 to Flagler Hospital can range from 15 to 30 minutes, influenced by traffic conditions. For specialized care or access to larger medical centers in Daytona Beach, the commute via I-95 could stretch to 45 minutes or more. Even shorter distances within Palm Coast, utilizing local roads like Palm Coast Parkway and Belle Terre Parkway, can be impacted by traffic signals and volume, adding precious minutes to the journey.

Public transportation options in Palm Coast are limited, posing a challenge for residents without personal vehicles. The Flagler County Transportation Department operates a fixed-route bus service, offering routes that traverse key areas of the city. However, these routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, and the frequency of service can be infrequent, requiring careful planning and potentially extended travel times. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The lack of a robust public transportation network highlights the critical dependence on personal vehicles or alternative modes of transportation for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Palm Coast, offering a convenient, albeit potentially costly, alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. Ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for individuals unable to drive or those seeking a more direct route to their appointments. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand may impact affordability. Medical transport services, like those offered by local companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, provide a dedicated service for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate specific medical needs.

Assessing the availability and efficiency of transportation options is crucial for understanding healthcare access in 32137. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the cumulative impact of these factors. A high score would indicate easy and efficient access to healthcare, while a low score would signify challenges in reaching medical facilities.

The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average travel times to various healthcare facilities, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transportation Accessibility:** Availability, frequency, and coverage of public transit routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** Reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Services:** Availability and accessibility of specialized medical transport.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Density of medical offices and hospitals within the ZIP code.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a definitive metric but a reflection of the overall challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in Palm Coast.

For residents of 32137 managing hypertension, the ability to consistently and reliably access medical care is paramount. The commute to healthcare must be factored into the decision-making process. Moving to Palm Coast requires careful consideration of transportation options, the location of healthcare facilities, and the potential impact of traffic and other factors on the ability to attend appointments and receive necessary medical attention. This analysis offers a crucial foundation for assessing the suitability of Palm Coast for individuals with hypertension, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The "Hypertension Score" for 32137, considering the factors discussed, would likely be moderate. While Palm Coast offers some local healthcare options and ride-sharing services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the potential for traffic delays on major roads present challenges for residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The score can be improved with a more robust public transportation system, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and greater investment in local healthcare infrastructure. This information is critical for anyone considering moving to Palm Coast, ensuring they are prepared for the realities of healthcare access in the area.