33619, Tampa, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 33619, Tampa, Florida is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.65 percent of residents in 33619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tampa General Hospital with a distance of 5.12 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tampa's 33619

Considering a move to Tampa, Florida, and concerned about managing hypertension? Understanding healthcare access, especially in a new area, is crucial. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment for ZIP code 33619, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities, a critical factor for effective hypertension management. This score isn't a numerical grade, but a comprehensive evaluation of the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare within this specific geographic area.

The 33619 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area, and its healthcare landscape reflects this complexity. Proximity to healthcare providers is a primary consideration. The ability to quickly and reliably reach a doctor's office, pharmacy, or specialist is vital for consistent medication adherence, regular check-ups, and prompt medical attention. Transportation options directly impact this accessibility, creating both advantages and disadvantages for residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains a dominant mode of **transportation** in Tampa, and 33619 residents rely heavily on their vehicles. The major roadways, like the Veterans Expressway (SR 589), offer quick access to various medical facilities. Driving to AdventHealth Carrollwood, a prominent hospital, from central 33619 can take approximately 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours. However, peak-hour congestion, particularly on the Veterans Expressway and Hillsborough Avenue, can significantly extend this commute, potentially doubling the travel time.

Navigating the local roads, such as Gunn Highway and Waters Avenue, is essential for reaching smaller clinics and pharmacies. While these roads provide more direct access to neighborhood services, they are often subject to traffic lights and stop-and-go conditions, increasing travel time and stress levels. The efficiency of driving to **healthcare access** is thus highly variable, depending on the time of day and the specific destination.

**Public Transit: Navigating the HART Network**

The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides public **transportation** within 33619. Several bus routes serve the area, offering an alternative to driving. Route 36, for instance, runs along Gunn Highway, providing access to various medical offices and pharmacies. Route 34 connects to the University of South Florida (USF) area, which includes several healthcare facilities.

However, relying on HART presents challenges. Bus schedules may not always align with medical appointments, and wait times can be significant. The frequency of service on some routes is limited, especially during evenings and weekends. Furthermore, the **ADA** (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of HART buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. All HART buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring accessibility for passengers with disabilities. However, transferring between routes, particularly for those with mobility issues, can be cumbersome.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Modern Mobility Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option. These services provide on-demand rides to medical appointments, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical **transportation** services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transport, often providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit due to their medical conditions. However, availability and cost vary depending on the service and the individual's insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for 33619, based on **transportation** considerations, is not a simple "good" or "bad" assessment. It's a nuanced evaluation. Driving offers relative speed and convenience, but traffic congestion can be a significant impediment. Public transit provides an affordable alternative, but it comes with potential time constraints and accessibility challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport offer more personalized options, but they may present financial barriers.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is another crucial element. Within 33619 and the surrounding areas, a variety of healthcare providers are available, including primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and hospitals. This geographical proximity enhances **healthcare access**, but the effectiveness of this access hinges on the ease and reliability of **transportation**.

**Moving to Tampa: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For individuals **moving to Tampa**, 33619 offers a mixed bag regarding healthcare access. The availability of diverse **transportation** options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides flexibility. However, the variability in travel times, the potential for cost barriers, and the challenges associated with public transit necessitate careful planning.

To optimize **healthcare access** in 33619, consider the following:

* **Assess your mobility needs:** If you have mobility limitations, investigate the accessibility features of public transit and the availability of medical transport services.
* **Evaluate your financial resources:** Factor in the costs of driving (gas, maintenance), ride-sharing, and medical transport when budgeting for healthcare expenses.
* **Plan your routes:** Utilize online mapping tools and public transit apps to identify the most efficient routes to your healthcare providers.
* **Consider appointment times:** Schedule appointments during off-peak traffic hours to minimize travel time.
* **Explore local resources:** Contact local healthcare providers and community organizations to learn about available **transportation** assistance programs.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for 33619 is a dynamic assessment. The best approach is to proactively research the available **transportation** options, understand their limitations, and develop a personalized plan to ensure consistent and reliable access to healthcare. This proactive approach is essential for effectively managing hypertension and maintaining overall well-being when **moving to Tampa**.