32937, Satellite Beach, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32937, Satellite Beach, Florida is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.96 percent of residents in 32937 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holmes Regional Medical Center with a distance of 5.75 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 32937

Moving to Satellite Beach, Florida, in ZIP Code 32937, promises sun-drenched shores and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. However, for individuals managing hypertension, the ease of accessing healthcare becomes a crucial consideration. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around 32937, assessing its impact on healthcare access and providing a "Hypertension Score" based on commute times, public transit options, and available ride-sharing and medical transport services. This score will help prospective residents understand the challenges and opportunities associated with managing their health while enjoying the benefits of living in this beautiful beachside community.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a subjective assessment, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare based on transportation factors. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. We'll consider factors like drive times to medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, and the presence of alternative transportation options. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation hurdles individuals with hypertension might face.

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

The primary arteries for transportation in and around 32937 are US-1, A1A, and the Pineda Causeway. US-1, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides access to a variety of medical facilities located in Melbourne and Palm Bay. A1A, the scenic coastal road, offers a more leisurely route, albeit one that can be subject to traffic, especially during peak season. The Pineda Causeway, connecting Satellite Beach to I-95, offers a faster route to medical centers further inland.

Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic patterns. During rush hour, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, travel on US-1 and A1A can be significantly slower. For example, a trip from central Satellite Beach to the Health First Viera Hospital, located off I-95, could take 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours but potentially 45 minutes or more during peak times. Similarly, a trip to the Wuesthoff Health System in Melbourne might take 15-20 minutes in light traffic, but could stretch to 30-40 minutes during rush hour.

The condition of the roadways also plays a role. While generally well-maintained, construction projects and occasional flooding, especially during hurricane season, can disrupt traffic flow and extend travel times. These factors are important considerations for individuals with hypertension, as prolonged travel times, especially when experiencing symptoms, can be detrimental.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Brevard County's public transportation system, Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT), offers limited service within 32937 and the surrounding areas. Route 1, the primary route serving Satellite Beach, provides access to Melbourne and other key destinations. However, frequency is limited, with buses typically running every hour or two. This can pose a challenge for individuals needing frequent medical appointments or experiencing sudden health issues.

SCAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make public transportation a less-than-ideal option for many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or needing to reach medical facilities outside of the direct route. The reliance on transfers to reach certain destinations further complicates matters, adding to travel time and potential stress.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 32937, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who are unable to drive or prefer not to. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs. Availability can also be an issue, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, cater specifically to individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access Points: Mapping the Landscape**

Several medical facilities are within reasonable driving distance of 32937. These include:

* **Health First Viera Hospital:** Located off I-95, this hospital offers a wide range of services, including cardiology and emergency care.
* **Wuesthoff Health System (Melbourne):** A full-service hospital with a comprehensive range of medical specialties.
* **Various medical offices and clinics:** Numerous primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers are located in Melbourne, Indialantic, and Satellite Beach.

The proximity of these facilities is a positive factor in healthcare access. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options highlights the importance of considering drive times and the availability of transportation services when making healthcare decisions.

**Hypertension Score for 32937: A Subjective Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed above, the "Hypertension Score" for 32937 is a **6 out of 10**.

**Reasoning:**

* **Positive Factors:** Proximity to medical facilities, availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options contribute to a relatively favorable score.
* **Negative Factors:** Limited public transportation options, potential for traffic congestion on key roadways (US-1, A1A, Pineda Causeway), and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services detract from the score.

This score suggests that while healthcare access is generally manageable in 32937, individuals with hypertension should carefully consider their transportation needs and plan accordingly. Prioritizing appointments during off-peak hours, exploring ride-sharing options, and researching medical transport services are crucial steps in ensuring seamless healthcare access. Moving to Satellite Beach offers a beautiful lifestyle, but proactive planning regarding transportation and healthcare access is essential for maintaining optimal health.