33513, Bushnell, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 33513, Bushnell, Florida is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.21 percent of residents in 33513 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Florida Hospital Zephyrhills with a distance of 27.53 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33513**

The journey to maintaining healthy blood pressure in Bushnell, Florida (ZIP Code 33513), is intricately linked to the availability and ease of transportation. Assessing "healthcare access" requires a deep dive into commute times, public transit options, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This analysis, the "Hypertension Score," aims to illuminate the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape for residents, particularly those considering "moving to Bushnell."

Bushnell, a rural community in Sumter County, presents unique challenges. The "transportation" infrastructure is less developed than in urban centers. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles. The major thoroughfare, Interstate 75 (I-75), offers quick north-south travel. However, accessing healthcare often necessitates navigating local roads and highways.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. The closest hospitals and clinics are in neighboring cities. The Villages Regional Hospital, approximately 15-20 minutes away via County Road 475 and County Road 466, provides comprehensive medical services. However, this estimate assumes optimal traffic conditions. Peak hours and potential accidents on these two-lane roads can significantly extend travel times, impacting individuals with hypertension who require timely medical attention.

Further afield, Ocala Regional Medical Center, roughly 45-60 minutes away via I-75, offers specialized care. The drive, though primarily on a major interstate, can be affected by traffic congestion, especially during rush hour. These extended commute times can exacerbate stress, a known contributor to elevated blood pressure.

Public transit options in Bushnell are limited. Sumter County operates a demand-response transit system, offering door-to-door service for residents. This service, while available, requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the system's operational hours and capacity can be restrictive. Details on ADA accessibility, if any, are difficult to ascertain from publicly available information.

The absence of a robust public transit network necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, but their presence in Bushnell is inconsistent. Availability can fluctuate based on demand and driver availability. The reliability of these services for scheduled medical appointments is uncertain.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services, provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers, can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access.

The Hypertension Score considers these factors. A high score indicates excellent healthcare access, while a low score reflects significant challenges. The score takes into account:

* **Drive Time:** Shorter drive times to healthcare facilities contribute to a higher score.
* **Public Transit:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options influence the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The presence and reliability of ride-sharing services are considered.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability and affordability of medical transport services are factored in.
* **Road Quality and Traffic:** Road conditions and traffic congestion on primary routes.

For residents with hypertension, the Hypertension Score is more than a numerical value; it is a gauge of their ability to manage their health. The longer the commute to a doctor's office or hospital, the more challenging it becomes to adhere to treatment plans, attend follow-up appointments, and receive timely medical care. This is particularly crucial for residents "moving to Bushnell," as they must consider the impact of transportation on their well-being.

The score also highlights the need for community-based solutions. Encouraging the development of local healthcare facilities, advocating for expanded public transit options, and supporting the availability of affordable medical transport services are essential steps toward improving healthcare access for all residents.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access is multifaceted. The physical and psychological stress of navigating long commutes, the financial burden of transportation costs, and the potential for delays all contribute to the challenges faced by individuals with hypertension. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing these challenges and identifying areas for improvement.

The score is dynamic. It must be updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare service availability, and the emergence of new transportation options. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that is accessible, affordable, and supportive of the health and well-being of all residents.

The Sumter County Board of County Commissioners should consider investing in improved road infrastructure, expanding public transit options, and partnering with healthcare providers to offer transportation assistance programs. These investments would not only improve the Hypertension Score but also enhance the overall quality of life for residents of Bushnell.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score provides a critical assessment of healthcare access in ZIP Code 33513. It highlights the importance of transportation in managing hypertension and underscores the need for community-based solutions to improve healthcare access for all residents. The score serves as a call to action, urging policymakers, healthcare providers, and community members to work together to create a healthier and more accessible future for Bushnell.