33473, Boynton Beach, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 33473, Boynton Beach, Florida is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.51 percent of residents in 33473 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Delray Medical Center with a distance of 6.45 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 33473

Moving to Boynton Beach, Florida, in ZIP code 33473, offers a vibrant lifestyle, but ensuring convenient healthcare access is paramount, especially for those managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This score aims to assist residents in understanding the practicalities of reaching essential healthcare providers, directly impacting their ability to manage hypertension effectively.

The "Hypertension Score" is a subjective assessment, considering factors like ease of access, time commitment, and potential stress factors associated with each transportation mode. The score will range from 1 (least accessible, most challenging) to 5 (most accessible, least challenging).

**Driving Times and Roadways: A Core Component**

The primary mode of transportation in Boynton Beach is the personal vehicle. The major roadways, including Interstate 95 (I-95), the Florida Turnpike, and US-1 (Federal Highway), significantly influence healthcare access. A high "Hypertension Score" hinges on reasonable drive times to medical facilities.

For example, driving from the northern reaches of 33473, near Gateway Boulevard, to Bethesda Hospital East in Boynton Beach, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 10-15 minutes via I-95, assuming moderate traffic. This journey earns a "Hypertension Score" of 4, reflecting relatively quick access. However, during peak rush hour, this drive can extend to 25-30 minutes, decreasing the score to 3.

Traveling to Delray Medical Center, located south of 33473, might involve a longer drive, potentially 20-30 minutes via I-95 or US-1, depending on the specific origin point and traffic conditions. This would garner a score of 3, acknowledging the increased travel time. The Florida Turnpike offers an alternative route, but tolls and potential congestion near the Boynton Beach service plaza must be factored in.

Accessing smaller clinics and specialists within Boynton Beach, often located along US-1 or Boynton Beach Boulevard, generally results in shorter drive times, potentially earning a score of 4 or 5, depending on proximity. However, the volume of traffic, especially during the day, can significantly impact these scores.

**Public Transportation: A Limited but Essential Option**

Palm Tran, the local public transit system, provides bus service within Boynton Beach and surrounding areas. Several routes serve 33473, including routes 1, 2, and 70. These routes connect to major medical facilities, but the "Hypertension Score" for public transit is lower due to potential challenges.

The primary concern is travel time. Bus routes often involve multiple transfers and longer overall journey times compared to driving. A trip from the northern part of 33473 to Bethesda Hospital East via Palm Tran could easily take 45 minutes to an hour, resulting in a "Hypertension Score" of 2.

ADA accessibility is a significant consideration. All Palm Tran buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. However, navigating bus stops, especially during inclement weather, can present difficulties. Furthermore, those with hypertension might find the extended travel times and potential stress associated with public transit less than ideal.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. The "Hypertension Score" for ride-sharing varies.

Availability is generally good in Boynton Beach, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs. A ride to Bethesda Hospital East might cost $15-$30, depending on the time and distance. This would earn a "Hypertension Score" of 3 or 4, depending on the price and wait time.

Medical transportation services, such as First Medical Transportation and MedTrans, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. The "Hypertension Score" for medical transport is generally high (4 or 5), as it addresses specific needs. However, these services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Combining Transportation Modes: A Personalized Approach**

The most effective approach to healthcare access in 33473 often involves combining transportation modes. For instance, a resident might take a ride-share to a Palm Tran bus stop and then use the bus to reach a medical facility. This strategy can help balance cost, convenience, and accessibility. The "Hypertension Score" would reflect the challenges of each mode.

**Specific Examples and Score Adjustments**

Consider a resident living near the Boynton Beach Mall. Driving to Bethesda Hospital East via I-95 during off-peak hours earns a "Hypertension Score" of 4. Using Palm Tran route 1, with a 10-minute walk to the bus stop and a 45-minute bus ride, results in a score of 2. A ride-share might provide a score of 3.

Conversely, a resident with mobility issues might rely on medical transport, earning a score of 5. The "Hypertension Score" will be influenced by individual circumstances, including mobility, financial resources, and personal preferences.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The "Hypertension Score" for 33473 reflects the multifaceted nature of transportation and healthcare access. While driving offers the most direct route, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport provide valuable alternatives.

Moving to Boynton Beach requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Residents with hypertension should prioritize proximity to medical facilities, explore transportation options, and develop a plan to ensure convenient and timely access to care. Understanding the "Hypertension Score" for each mode of transportation empowers residents to make informed decisions, supporting their health and well-being in their new community. The goal is to ensure that transportation does not become a barrier to essential healthcare, particularly for those managing a chronic condition like hypertension.