33594, Valrico, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 33594, Valrico, Florida is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.13 percent of residents in 33594 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Brandon Hospital with a distance of 3.11 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Valrico (ZIP Code 33594)

Moving to Valrico, Florida (ZIP Code 33594), a community nestled in the heart of Hillsborough County, presents a myriad of considerations, not least of which is access to healthcare. For residents managing hypertension, a critical factor is the ease and efficiency with which they can reach medical appointments and necessary services. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all crucial elements influencing healthcare access for those living with hypertension.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the primary transportation arteries serving Valrico. Interstate 75 (I-75) forms a vital north-south corridor, providing quick access to Tampa and points further south. The primary east-west thoroughfare is State Road 60 (SR 60), a bustling road linking Valrico to Brandon, Plant City, and beyond. Additionally, Lithia-Pinecrest Road and Bloomingdale Avenue serve as significant local routes, connecting residential areas to commercial centers and healthcare facilities.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The Hypertension Score begins with a drive-time analysis. The proximity of healthcare facilities to a patient’s home is a significant determinant of healthcare access. For residents of Valrico, the Brandon Regional Hospital, located at 119 Oakfield Drive, is a central healthcare hub. Driving from central Valrico to Brandon Regional Hospital, using SR 60, typically takes between 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. During peak rush hour, this commute could extend to 20-25 minutes, impacting the timely arrival for appointments and potentially increasing stress levels, a known trigger for hypertension.

Another vital facility is the AdventHealth Brandon ER, located at 4049 S. Bell Shoals Road. This facility offers immediate care and is generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive via Lithia-Pinecrest Road or Bloomingdale Avenue. The Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Brandon Healthplex, located at 10740 Big Bend Road, is another option, accessible via I-75 and SR 60, with a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Further afield, the University of South Florida (USF) Health Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa, accessible via I-75, presents a longer commute, typically taking 30-45 minutes. This longer drive time may be a factor for those with mobility issues or those requiring frequent specialist appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) provides public transportation services within the county. However, the coverage in Valrico is limited. The primary routes serving the area are Route 30 (SR 60) and Route 39 (Lithia-Pinecrest Road). These routes offer connections to Brandon and Tampa, but the frequency of service is relatively low, particularly during evenings and weekends.

For individuals with hypertension, the infrequent schedules and potential for longer travel times on public transit can be a challenge. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for those with mobility limitations. While HART strives to provide accessible transportation, the reliance on public transit for regular healthcare appointments might not be the most convenient option for many Valrico residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible transportation alternative. These services are readily available in Valrico, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of these services can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, are also available. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, providing door-to-door transportation and assistance. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they offer a higher level of support and are often equipped to handle specific medical requirements.

**Hypertension Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the Hypertension Score for Valrico (ZIP Code 33594) is moderate. While the proximity of Brandon Regional Hospital and AdventHealth Brandon ER offers convenient access, the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation remains high. The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services may pose challenges for some residents.

For individuals managing hypertension, the following recommendations are offered. Prioritize healthcare facilities within a short drive, such as Brandon Regional Hospital or AdventHealth Brandon ER. Consider the cost of ride-sharing services and budget accordingly. Explore the possibility of carpooling with neighbors or friends for appointments. Finally, if mobility is an issue, investigate medical transportation options, and factor the cost into your healthcare budget.

**The Importance of Proactive Planning:**

Moving to Valrico with hypertension requires careful planning regarding transportation and healthcare access. Understanding the drive times, public transit limitations, and ride-sharing options is crucial. Proactive planning, including identifying preferred healthcare providers, assessing transportation needs, and budgeting for transportation costs, will contribute significantly to successful management of hypertension and a better quality of life in this growing community. The choice of location within Valrico may also affect access. Consider the proximity to major roads, such as SR 60 or Lithia-Pinecrest Road, when choosing a home, as this will influence drive times to healthcare facilities.

Living in Valrico presents numerous benefits, including a desirable quality of life and access to various amenities. However, for individuals with hypertension, a proactive approach to transportation and healthcare access is essential to ensure a smooth transition and continued well-being. The ability to quickly and easily access healthcare services is vital for managing this chronic condition, and a thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape is the first step towards achieving this goal.