32164, Palm Coast, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32164, Palm Coast, Florida is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.04 percent of residents in 32164 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Florida Hospital Medical Group Inc with a distance of 2.54 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Palm Coast (ZIP Code 32164)

Relocating to Palm Coast, Florida (ZIP Code 32164) often represents a pursuit of a healthier, more relaxed lifestyle. However, for individuals managing hypertension, understanding the local healthcare landscape, particularly the ease of accessing medical appointments, is paramount. This "Hypertension Score" write-up delves into the transportation complexities of reaching healthcare providers within and around 32164, providing a realistic assessment for those considering a move. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, all crucial factors influencing healthcare access and, ultimately, the ability to effectively manage hypertension.

The foundation of healthcare access in Palm Coast, like many suburban areas, is the personal vehicle. The primary arteries for transportation are Interstate 95 (I-95), running north-south, and US Highway 1, a parallel route closer to the Intracoastal Waterway. Within Palm Coast, major thoroughfares like Palm Coast Parkway, Matanzas Woods Parkway, and Old Kings Road provide crucial east-west and north-south connectivity.

For a resident in 32164, reaching a primary care physician or specialist often involves navigating these roads. Drive times vary significantly depending on the location of the healthcare provider and the time of day. During peak rush hour, typically weekday mornings and late afternoons, traffic congestion on Palm Coast Parkway and near the I-95 interchanges can add considerable time to your commute. A short trip of five miles might easily stretch to twenty minutes, impacting the scheduling of appointments and medication adherence.

Consider a scenario: a resident of the western portion of 32164 needs to see a cardiologist located near AdventHealth Palm Coast, a major healthcare provider situated on Palm Coast Parkway. The drive, approximately 7-10 miles, could take anywhere from 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Conversely, a visit to a specialist located in Daytona Beach, roughly 30 miles south, could easily consume 45 minutes to an hour, significantly impacting the patient's time and energy. This distance is a critical aspect of healthcare access.

Public transportation, while available, presents a more complex picture. The Flagler County Public TransportationPublic Transportation system offers bus services, but routes and frequency are limited. The primary route servicing Palm Coast is Route 1, which runs along US Highway 1, and Route 2, which travels along Palm Coast Parkway. These routes are crucial for those without personal vehicles, offering a lifeline to essential services.

However, the frequency of these buses, typically running hourly, may not align with the immediate needs of a patient with hypertension. The routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities, necessitating transfers and potentially increasing travel time. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor for individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring equal access to healthcare. The system is committed to providing accessible services, but the overall reliance on public transit presents limitations.

The Flagler County Public Transportation system does offer a demand-response service, a crucial element for those with disabilities. This service, often requiring advance booking, provides door-to-door transportation for eligible individuals. This is a vital component of healthcare access, but availability is limited, and booking lead times can be significant, potentially hindering timely medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services are readily available in Palm Coast, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The convenience of ride-sharing is undeniable, particularly for those unable to drive or without access to public transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. The financial burden of transportation is a significant consideration for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a specialized solution. These services, such as Firstat Nursing Services or MedTrans, provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with trained personnel. These services are particularly beneficial for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those needing medical supervision during transport. However, these services are generally more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation and require advance booking.

The decision to move to Palm Coast, especially for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, and the potential for traffic congestion should be factored into the equation. Public transportation, while available, presents limitations in frequency and route coverage. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be costly, while medical transportation services provide specialized care at a premium.

The “Hypertension Score” for 32164, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. The availability of diverse transportation options is a positive factor, but the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays introduce challenges. The limited frequency of public transit and the cost of ride-sharing can create barriers to healthcare access for some individuals.

Healthcare access is a critical consideration when moving to a new area. The ability to reach healthcare providers promptly and reliably is essential for effective hypertension management. Understanding the transportation options available in 32164, from driving times on I-95 to the nuances of the Flagler County Public Transportation system, is crucial for making an informed decision. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs and preferences, weighing the convenience of personal vehicles against the limitations of public transit and the costs of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition and sustained access to healthcare, supporting a healthy and fulfilling life in Palm Coast.