32754, Mims, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32754, Mims, Florida is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.35 percent of residents in 32754 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parrish Medical Center with a distance of 8.96 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mims, Florida (ZIP Code 32754)

The journey to healthcare in Mims, Florida (ZIP Code 32754), demands careful consideration, especially for residents managing hypertension. This assessment, a "Hypertension Score," evaluates transportation options and their impact on timely access to medical care, a crucial factor in managing this chronic condition. The goal is to illuminate the complexities of navigating healthcare access, informing residents and potential newcomers alike, particularly those considering moving to Mims.

The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. Each element is assessed based on its accessibility, reliability, and suitability for individuals with hypertension, who often require frequent check-ups, medication refills, and prompt responses to health concerns. The higher the score, the better the access.

**Drive Times and Roadway Considerations:**

The primary arteries for transportation within and around Mims are Interstate 95 (I-95), U.S. Highway 1 (US-1), and State Road 50 (SR-50). I-95 provides rapid north-south travel, while US-1 offers a more local, though often congested, route. SR-50, traversing east-west, connects to major healthcare hubs.

For residents in Mims, the nearest major hospitals and specialized medical facilities are predominantly located in Titusville, approximately a 10 to 20-minute drive via US-1 or I-95, depending on traffic. The drive to the Health First Viera Hospital, a more comprehensive facility, can extend to 30-45 minutes via SR-50 and I-95.

The time of day significantly impacts drive times. Rush hour, typically between 7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM, can add considerable delays. Individuals with hypertension, who may experience sudden health events, must account for these potential delays when scheduling appointments or seeking emergency care. Traffic incidents along I-95 or US-1 can further complicate transportation, potentially delaying critical medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Brevard County, including Mims, is primarily provided by Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT). However, the availability of public transit is limited in Mims, and the routes often lack the frequency and directness needed for convenient healthcare access.

SCAT Route 1 operates along US-1, offering a potential connection to Titusville. However, the route's frequency, particularly on weekends and evenings, may not align with healthcare appointment schedules. Furthermore, the need for transfers and potential wait times can significantly extend the overall travel duration, which can be problematic for individuals with hypertension.

ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the public transit system. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service remain significant barriers to healthcare access for many Mims residents, especially those residing in areas further from US-1.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. Their availability in Mims is generally good, providing a convenient way to access healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide another option. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Companies like First Transit and Mears Transportation Group often operate in the area. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive due to their health condition.

The availability and cost of medical transportation services vary. Insurance coverage for these services depends on the individual's plan and medical necessity. For individuals with hypertension, who may experience sudden health events, the availability of these services and their rapid response times are crucial considerations.

**Hypertension Score Calculation and Interpretation:**

The Hypertension Score for transportation to healthcare in Mims (32754) is calculated based on the following weighted factors:

* **Drive Time Reliability (40%):** Considers the average drive time to major healthcare facilities during peak and off-peak hours, factoring in potential traffic delays and road closures.
* **Public Transit Accessibility (20%):** Evaluates the frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of SCAT routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost (20%):** Assesses the availability of Uber and Lyft, along with the estimated cost for typical healthcare trips.
* **Medical Transportation Options (20%):** Examines the availability, cost, and insurance coverage of NEMT services.

The score is categorized as follows:

* **Excellent (80-100):** Easy and reliable access to healthcare facilities, with multiple transportation options available.
* **Good (60-79):** Generally good access, but some limitations may exist, such as traffic congestion or limited public transit options.
* **Fair (40-59):** Moderate access, with significant challenges such as limited public transit, high ride-sharing costs, or long drive times.
* **Poor (0-39):** Difficult access to healthcare facilities, with limited transportation options and significant barriers to timely care.

**Applying the Score to Mims (32754):**

Based on the factors discussed, the Hypertension Score for transportation to healthcare in Mims (32754) is likely to fall within the "Fair" to "Good" range. Drive times to Titusville are relatively manageable, but reliance on personal vehicles is high. Public transit is limited, and the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier. Medical transportation services provide a crucial safety net, but their availability and cost vary.

**Recommendations for Residents and Potential Movers:**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Mims, or for current residents, several strategies can improve healthcare access:

* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments during off-peak hours to minimize drive times.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing:** Utilize ride-sharing services when possible, comparing costs and availability.
* **Investigate Medical Transportation:** Research and understand the availability and cost of NEMT services.
* **Advocate for Public Transit:** Support efforts to improve public transit routes and frequency in the area.
* **Consider Proximity:** When choosing a residence, consider proximity to US-1 and potential SCAT routes.
* **Establish a Network:** Develop a network of family, friends, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance.

The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access in Mims. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents can make informed decisions and proactively manage their health needs. For those moving to Mims, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for ensuring timely and reliable access to healthcare, crucial for effectively managing hypertension and maintaining overall well-being.