32351, Quincy, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32351, Quincy, Florida is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.70 percent of residents in 32351 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare with a distance of 21.85 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Quincy, Florida (ZIP Code 32351)

Considering a move to Quincy, Florida (ZIP code 32351), and concerned about managing hypertension? Understanding healthcare access is crucial. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" based on transportation options to healthcare facilities, specifically targeting those managing or at risk of high blood pressure. Factors include drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all impacting your ability to consistently access essential medical care.

Quincy, the county seat of Gadsden County, presents unique transportation challenges. While the town offers a slower pace of life, its rural setting impacts healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" considers the time and effort required to reach providers, a critical factor for individuals needing regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care. This is especially vital for those managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent monitoring and adherence to treatment plans.

The primary healthcare provider in Quincy is the **Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Quincy Hospital**, located at 508 North Jackson Street. This hospital serves as the central hub for medical services in the area. Accessing this facility, and other essential medical appointments, is the cornerstone of our "Hypertension Score" assessment.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The most common mode of transportation is personal vehicle. Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic, which, thankfully, is generally light in Quincy. The main thoroughfares are **US-90** (running east-west) and **US-267** (north-south). These highways are the arteries connecting Quincy to surrounding areas, including Tallahassee, the state capital, approximately 30 miles east.

Traveling from various points within 32351 to the hospital on Jackson Street generally takes between 5 and 15 minutes, depending on the starting location. Residents in the southern part of the zip code, closer to the intersection of US-90 and US-267, will enjoy quicker commutes. Those residing in the northern or western reaches might face slightly longer drives. Rural roads, while scenic, can add to travel time.

For appointments at specialist clinics or for services unavailable locally, a trip to Tallahassee is often necessary. This drive, primarily via US-90, can take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Tallahassee. This longer travel time significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," as it increases the burden of attending appointments and accessing specialized care.

**Public Transportation Realities:**

Public transportation options in Quincy are limited. **Gadsden County Transit** provides bus services, but frequency and route coverage are restricted. Routes are designed to serve primarily employment and essential services, including healthcare.

The specific routes serving the hospital and other medical facilities are not explicitly detailed in the available public transit information. However, it is likely that routes will traverse the hospital. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the buses is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility challenges. Confirming ADA compliance and route specifics with Gadsden County Transit is essential for those reliant on public transit.

The limited public transportation options negatively affect the "Hypertension Score," particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Reliance on public transit can increase travel time, making it challenging to attend appointments on time and consistently.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, operate in Quincy, though availability may be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially impacting the ability to afford regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services, like **CareRide** and **Firstat Ambulance**, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance and are often covered by insurance for eligible patients. The availability and cost of these services are essential considerations for the "Hypertension Score," particularly for those with mobility limitations or complex medical needs.

The reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport increases the complexity and potential cost of accessing healthcare, impacting the "Hypertension Score." This is particularly relevant for individuals with limited financial resources or those who require assistance with mobility.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Moving to Quincy:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 32351 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. While Quincy offers a small-town charm, healthcare access presents challenges. The score will be influenced by:

* **Drive Time:** Shorter drive times to the local hospital improve the score. Longer drives to Tallahassee or other specialist facilities decrease it.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of Gadsden County Transit impact the score. Limited public transit options negatively affect the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The reliability, cost, and insurance coverage of ride-sharing and medical transport services influence the score. Limited or expensive options decrease the score.
* **Personal Circumstances:** The individual's ability to drive, financial resources, and mobility limitations are crucial. Individuals with mobility limitations or without access to a car will have a lower score.

For individuals managing hypertension, moving to Quincy requires careful consideration of these factors. While the local hospital provides essential services, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially limited public transit or ride-sharing options can create challenges.

**Recommendations for Improved Healthcare Access:**

* **Explore Telemedicine:** Utilize telemedicine services for routine check-ups and medication management.
* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Find a primary care physician in Quincy or Tallahassee to coordinate care.
* **Understand Insurance Coverage:** Confirm coverage for transportation services, including medical transport.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments in advance and factor in travel time.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Support initiatives to improve public transportation options.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a definitive number but a framework for understanding the challenges of healthcare access in Quincy, Florida. Careful planning and awareness of transportation options are crucial for successfully managing hypertension in this community. Moving to Quincy requires thoughtful consideration of these factors, ensuring access to timely and consistent healthcare is a top priority.