32461, Rosemary Beach, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32461, Rosemary Beach, Florida is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.91 percent of residents in 32461 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sacred Heart Hospital On The Emerald Coast with a distance of 17.79 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 32461**

Understanding the challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension, is crucial when considering a move to a new area. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 32461, encompassing the idyllic Rosemary Beach and surrounding communities, to assess the ease of accessing medical care for individuals managing high blood pressure. We will explore the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, to determine a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the accessibility of healthcare facilities.

The foundation of this score lies in understanding the time and effort required to reach essential medical appointments. For residents of Rosemary Beach, the primary thoroughfare for accessing healthcare is **US Highway 98**. This scenic coastal route, while beautiful, can experience significant traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekend getaways. Drive times to nearby hospitals and clinics are therefore heavily influenced by the flow of traffic.

The closest major healthcare provider is **Gulf Coast Medical Center** in Panama City, approximately 25 miles west of Rosemary Beach. During off-peak hours, a drive along US-98 can take around 35-45 minutes. However, during rush hour or on busy weekends, this commute can easily extend to an hour or more. The distance to other specialized facilities, such as cardiology clinics or endocrinology practices, will also vary depending on their location within the region.

Another vital artery is **County Road 30A**, a picturesque route that parallels the coastline. While offering a more relaxed driving experience, it’s generally slower than US-98 due to its winding nature and the numerous intersections. This is a popular route for those moving to Rosemary Beach, but its suitability for regular medical appointments is questionable, particularly for individuals with time constraints or mobility challenges.

Public transportation options in 32461 are limited. The **Bay County Transit Authority (BCTA)** provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and do not directly serve Rosemary Beach. The closest bus stops are located along US-98, requiring residents to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach them. The BCTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the lack of comprehensive route coverage and the infrequency of service pose significant challenges for individuals relying on public transit for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. They offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer specialized services for individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, availability and cost vary depending on the provider and the specific needs of the patient.

The “Hypertension Score” for 32461, considering these factors, is moderately challenging. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on US-98 can create accessibility barriers. The limited public transit options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services further compound these challenges.

For individuals with hypertension, regular medical appointments are essential for monitoring blood pressure and managing their condition. The drive times to healthcare providers, particularly during peak hours, can add stress and inconvenience. The lack of readily available public transit options necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services, which can be costly and time-consuming.

The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fares, can be a significant financial burden for individuals managing chronic conditions. The time spent traveling to and from medical appointments can also impact their ability to work, participate in social activities, and maintain their overall quality of life.

The lack of readily available public transit options can be particularly challenging for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who do not own a vehicle. These individuals may face significant difficulties accessing healthcare, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments and poorer health outcomes.

The availability of medical transportation services can help mitigate some of these challenges. However, the cost and availability of these services can vary, and they may not be accessible to all individuals.

Considering the factors mentioned above, the “Hypertension Score” for 32461 reflects the accessibility of healthcare for individuals managing high blood pressure. The score is based on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing the least accessible and 10 representing the most accessible.

**The score for 32461 is a 6.**

This score reflects the moderate accessibility of healthcare in the area. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic congestion, and the limited public transit options create challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Rosemary Beach and managing hypertension, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities, exploring ride-sharing options, and understanding the availability of medical transportation services can help mitigate these challenges and ensure access to essential medical care.

The decision to relocate to a new area involves numerous considerations, and understanding the healthcare landscape is paramount, especially for those managing chronic conditions. The “Hypertension Score” provides a framework for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare in 32461, offering valuable insights for individuals making informed decisions about their health and well-being.