33624, Tampa, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 33624, Tampa, Florida is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.77 percent of residents in 33624 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Florida Hospital Carrollwood with a distance of 4.17 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33624**

Navigating the intricate tapestry of healthcare access in Tampa's 33624 ZIP code, a critical component of **healthcare access** hinges on efficient **transportation**. This write-up delves into the multifaceted landscape of getting medical attention, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, a condition demanding consistent monitoring and timely interventions. We'll explore the commute options, their nuances, and their impact on an individual's ability to maintain optimal health. This is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Tampa**, seeking a comprehensive understanding of the area's healthcare infrastructure.

The primary arteries of 33624, including the iconic Gandy Boulevard, the bustling Dale Mabry Highway, and the more residential Westshore Boulevard, dictate much of the vehicular **transportation** experience. Drive times to healthcare facilities, a critical factor in a hypertension score, are heavily influenced by peak-hour congestion. A short drive on a Sunday morning, for instance, transforms into a potentially stressful ordeal during the weekday rush.

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario: a resident of 33624 needs to reach Tampa General Hospital (TGH), a major healthcare provider. During off-peak hours, the drive via Gandy Boulevard or the Veterans Expressway (SR 589) might take 15-20 minutes. However, during the morning or evening commute, that time could easily double, impacting the timely administration of medication or the urgency of an appointment.

Another crucial factor is the availability of public **transportation**. The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) operates several bus routes that serve the 33624 area. Route 4, for example, runs along Gandy Boulevard, providing a potential link to healthcare facilities, but the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours, is a significant consideration.

The HART system does offer ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible buses, a vital feature for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the overall commute time using public **transportation** is often significantly longer than driving. This prolonged travel time can be a burden for someone managing hypertension, potentially exacerbating stress and impacting their ability to adhere to a healthcare regimen.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, present another avenue for healthcare access. These services offer on-demand **transportation**, potentially circumventing the complexities of public transit or the stress of driving in heavy traffic. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier, particularly for individuals with fixed incomes or limited financial resources.

Medical **transportation** services, specializing in non-emergency medical trips, offer a specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel to assist patients. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance during their commute. However, these services also come at a cost, and their availability might vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the insurance coverage.

The **transportation** options available in 33624 significantly impact the hypertension score, a metric that reflects the ease and efficiency with which individuals can access healthcare. This score considers factors like drive times, public **transportation** accessibility, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical **transportation**. A high score indicates easy access, while a low score suggests significant challenges.

For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to promptly reach a healthcare provider is paramount. Delays in accessing care can lead to complications, including stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease. Therefore, the availability of reliable and affordable **transportation** is not merely a convenience; it's a critical determinant of health outcomes.

The Veterans Expressway (SR 589) and the Selmon Expressway (SR 618) offer alternative routes, potentially reducing drive times, but toll fees add to the overall cost of **transportation**. This financial burden can disproportionately affect individuals with limited resources, further impacting their ability to access healthcare.

Furthermore, the location of healthcare facilities within 33624 and its surrounding areas influences the **transportation** landscape. While the area boasts several medical clinics and urgent care centers, access to specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, may necessitate travel to hospitals like TGH or St. Joseph's Hospital, located further away.

The availability of pharmacies within the 33624 area is another vital component of the hypertension score. Easy access to medication refills is essential for managing the condition effectively. The proximity of pharmacies, coupled with convenient **transportation** options, contributes to medication adherence and overall health outcomes.

The density of traffic on Dale Mabry Highway and the often-congested Gandy Boulevard can be a significant source of stress, especially for individuals with hypertension. The emotional toll of navigating heavy traffic can exacerbate the condition, underscoring the importance of considering stress levels when evaluating the **transportation** environment.

The HART system’s expansion plans, including potential bus rapid transit (BRT) lines, could significantly improve **transportation** options in the future. These improvements would enhance the accessibility of healthcare facilities, particularly for those who rely on public transit.

The **transportation** landscape in 33624 is a complex interplay of factors, each influencing the hypertension score. The ability to quickly and affordably access healthcare is crucial for managing this condition. When **moving to Tampa**, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall well-being. Careful consideration of drive times, public **transportation** options, ride-sharing availability, and the cost of medical **transportation** is vital for individuals managing hypertension.