32218, Jacksonville, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32218, Jacksonville, Florida is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.97 percent of residents in 32218 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shands Jacksonville with a distance of 8.52 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 32218

Understanding the complexities of healthcare access is crucial, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up, focusing on ZIP code 32218 in Jacksonville, Florida, provides a detailed assessment of transportation options and their impact on accessing necessary medical care. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' for the area. This score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, a critical factor for residents, particularly those considering moving to Jacksonville.

ZIP code 32218, a residential area in Jacksonville, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary thoroughfares influencing healthcare access are Interstate 95 (I-95), Atlantic Boulevard, and Southside Boulevard. The proximity to these highways significantly impacts drive times to various healthcare facilities. The 'Hypertension Score' will consider this, recognizing that longer travel times can lead to delayed treatment, missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for those managing hypertension.

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation in this area. A significant portion of residents rely on personal vehicles to reach their healthcare providers. Drive times, however, fluctuate depending on the destination and the time of day. For example, reaching the Mayo Clinic on San Pablo Road from central 32218 might take 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours, but could easily double during rush hour, especially with traffic congestion on Atlantic Boulevard and the I-95 corridor.

Navigating the healthcare landscape in 32218 requires a nuanced understanding of public transit options. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) operates several bus routes that serve the area. Route 14, for instance, travels along Atlantic Boulevard, offering access to various medical facilities. Route 10, running on Southside Boulevard, connects to other key destinations. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a significant challenge.

Furthermore, the 'Hypertension Score' must evaluate the accessibility of public transit for individuals with mobility limitations. The JTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system with mobility aids are crucial considerations. The distance from bus stops to medical facilities also plays a role in the score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative in 32218. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially mitigating the limitations of public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, particularly for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services, especially during off-peak hours and in less populated areas, also needs consideration.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering door-to-door transportation. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and First Coast Medical Transport operate in Jacksonville, providing services ranging from basic transportation to ambulance services. These services are often covered by insurance, but eligibility requirements and prior authorization processes can be complex. The 'Hypertension Score' will factor in the availability, cost, and accessibility of these specialized transportation options.

The 'Hypertension Score' must also consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to the residents of 32218. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies within a reasonable distance is critical. The presence of urgent care clinics and walk-in facilities can also enhance healthcare access, especially for individuals experiencing acute health issues. The density of healthcare providers in the area directly impacts the ease of obtaining medical care.

For those considering moving to Jacksonville, understanding the transportation challenges within 32218 is essential. The 'Hypertension Score' will provide valuable insights for individuals managing hypertension or other chronic conditions. The score will consider the average drive times to medical facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transit routes, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options.

The 'Hypertension Score' will also acknowledge the importance of preventative care. Easy access to routine check-ups, screenings, and medication refills is crucial for managing hypertension effectively. The score will assess the availability of pharmacies and the convenience of prescription refills in the area. The overall goal is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The final 'Hypertension Score' will be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of various transportation factors. It will incorporate drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, medical transport options, and the density of healthcare providers. The score will provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare in 32218, empowering residents to navigate the transportation landscape and prioritize their health.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP code 32218 will offer a valuable resource for residents and prospective movers. It will highlight the importance of transportation in accessing healthcare, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this Jacksonville community. By considering all the factors, the 'Hypertension Score' will empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being, especially as they navigate the complexities of transportation and healthcare access.