32425, Bonifay, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32425, Bonifay, Florida is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.17 percent of residents in 32425 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Florida Community Hospital with a distance of 8.49 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 32425

The decision to relocate, especially when managing a chronic condition like hypertension, necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape in ZIP code 32425, focusing on its impact on individuals with hypertension, offering a "Hypertension Score" based on commute times, public transit options, and available transportation services to reach essential healthcare. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Bonifay, Florida, and needing to understand their potential healthcare journey.

ZIP code 32425, encompassing Bonifay and surrounding areas in Holmes County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. The area's rural character influences transportation options, making healthcare access a critical factor for residents and prospective newcomers. The Hypertension Score aims to provide a clear picture of the practicalities involved in attending appointments, accessing medications, and receiving necessary medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in 32425 is personal vehicle. Assessing drive times to healthcare facilities is crucial. Bonifay, the central hub of the ZIP code, offers some local medical services, but specialized care often necessitates travel. The major thoroughfare is US Highway 90, the primary east-west artery. Driving east on US-90 leads to Chipley, approximately a 20-minute drive, where some specialist physicians and the Washington County Hospital are located.

Traveling west on US-90 towards DeFuniak Springs, approximately a 45-minute drive, offers access to larger medical facilities and specialists. For more comprehensive care, including advanced cardiology or nephrology services, a trip to Panama City, approximately an hour and 15 minutes south via US-231, is often necessary. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Smaller roads, such as State Road 79, provide alternative routes, though they are typically less direct and may involve slower travel times. These routes can be useful for avoiding traffic on US-90 or US-231, but are often less well-lit and may have limited shoulders, posing potential safety concerns, especially at night. The condition of these roads can also be affected by weather, impacting travel times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Route**

Public transportation options in 32425 are extremely limited. The Northwest Florida Transportation Corridor (NWFTC) provides some regional bus service, but the routes are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. Information on the specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features are scarce and require direct inquiry with the NWFTC.

The lack of robust public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, particularly those who cannot drive or prefer not to. This limitation restricts healthcare access and may necessitate reliance on family, friends, or other transportation alternatives. The absence of frequent, accessible public transit significantly lowers the Hypertension Score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region, but their presence in 32425 is inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver density and demand. Securing a ride, especially for scheduled medical appointments, cannot be guaranteed. This uncertainty adds to the complexity of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are an option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including, but not limited to, local ambulance services and private transport companies.

However, these services can be costly and may require advanced booking. The availability of these services can also be limited, particularly during peak hours or in emergencies. The reliance on these services adds to the overall cost and complexity of managing hypertension.

**The Hypertension Score: A Summary**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the Hypertension Score for 32425 is moderate. The score reflects the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation.

* **Drive Times:** While drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are reasonable, longer trips to access specialized care are necessary.
* **Public Transit:** The lack of reliable public transit significantly limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Share:** Ride-sharing services are not consistently available.
* **Medical Transportation:** Medical transportation services are available, but their cost and potential limitations must be considered.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension**

Individuals with hypertension considering moving to Bonifay or residing in 32425 should prioritize the following:

* **Assess Driving Capabilities:** Evaluate their ability to drive safely and reliably.
* **Explore Local Medical Services:** Identify local healthcare providers and facilities.
* **Plan for Transportation:** Develop a comprehensive transportation plan, including backup options for medical appointments.
* **Investigate Medical Transportation:** Research and pre-book medical transportation services if needed.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Evaluate the proximity of potential residences to healthcare facilities.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Moving to Bonifay and managing hypertension requires careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options necessitate proactive planning. By understanding the available resources and potential challenges, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the necessary care to manage their condition effectively. The Hypertension Score serves as a guide to navigate the transportation landscape and to make the best decisions for a healthy life.