32464, Westville, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32464, Westville, Florida is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.60 percent of residents in 32464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Healthmark Regional Medical Center with a distance of 20.17 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Westville (ZIP Code 32464)

Westville, Florida, nestled in the heart of Walton County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. The quiet charm of this community, however, is interwoven with the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. For individuals managing hypertension, understanding the logistical hurdles in reaching medical appointments is paramount. This write-up, the "Hypertension Score," assesses the ease of accessing healthcare within and around ZIP Code 32464, providing a comprehensive overview of **transportation** options and their impact on patient care.

The foundation of any assessment of **healthcare access** lies in understanding the geographical context. Westville, a rural area, is characterized by expansive distances and limited public **transportation**. The nearest major medical facilities are located in DeFuniak Springs and Crestview, towns that are not within walking distance, creating a reliance on vehicular **transportation**. This necessitates a deep dive into the available routes, considering factors like traffic, road conditions, and the availability of alternative modes of **transportation**.

The primary arteries for **transportation** in and out of Westville are State Road 2 (SR-2) and County Road 183 (CR-183). SR-2, a two-lane highway, provides a direct route east towards DeFuniak Springs, the county seat, where you will find Northwest Florida Community Hospital. The drive, typically taking 20-30 minutes, depends on traffic, which can be heavier during peak commuting hours. CR-183 offers a north-south connection, leading to Interstate 10 (I-10), a major east-west thoroughfare. I-10 provides access to larger medical centers in Pensacola to the west and Tallahassee to the east.

The drive to Crestview, home to the North Okaloosa Medical Center, involves navigating CR-183 to I-10 and then heading west. This journey, approximately 40-50 minutes, is subject to the same traffic considerations. For individuals with hypertension, the stress of a long commute, particularly during a medical crisis, can be significant. Delays caused by traffic accidents or road closures can exacerbate the situation, making timely **healthcare access** a critical concern.

Public **transportation** options in Westville are severely limited. Walton County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This dearth of public **transportation** options significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, those with mobility limitations, and individuals who cannot drive due to medical conditions. This scarcity of public **transportation** is a major factor in the "Hypertension Score" calculation.

The absence of a robust public **transportation** system leaves residents reliant on alternative modes of **transportation**. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed. Availability is dependent on driver density, which can be unpredictable in a rural setting. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services, often provided by specialized companies, offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, availability and cost vary. Researching and securing these services in advance of appointments is crucial, especially for those with mobility limitations or needing assistance.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of these services is a critical consideration. Vehicles must be equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The availability of these ADA-compliant vehicles is essential for ensuring equal **healthcare access** for all residents.

The "Hypertension Score" must also consider the impact of these **transportation** challenges on the overall quality of care. Frequent medical appointments are essential for managing hypertension. The stress and inconvenience of navigating long distances, limited public **transportation**, and potential delays can negatively impact patient adherence to treatment plans. Missed appointments can lead to uncontrolled blood pressure, increasing the risk of serious health complications.

For those **moving to Westville**, the availability of **healthcare access** and **transportation** options must be a primary consideration. Researching the locations of medical facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical **transportation** providers is essential. Exploring the potential for telehealth appointments, which can reduce the need for in-person visits, is also advisable.

The "Hypertension Score" will incorporate a weighted assessment of these factors. The score will consider the drive times to the nearest medical facilities, the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, the presence of medical **transportation** providers, and the availability of public **transportation** options. The score will also factor in the potential impact of these **transportation** challenges on patient adherence to treatment plans and the overall quality of care.

The goal is to provide a clear, concise, and actionable assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access** in Westville. This information will empower residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, ensuring they can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their overall well-being. The score will serve as a tool for individuals, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and advocate for better **transportation** solutions.

The "Hypertension Score" will also highlight the importance of community initiatives aimed at improving **healthcare access**. This includes advocating for increased public **transportation** options, promoting the use of telehealth services, and supporting programs that provide financial assistance for medical **transportation**. By working together, the community can create a more supportive environment for individuals managing hypertension, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive.