34491, Summerfield, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 34491, Summerfield, Florida is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.91 percent of residents in 34491 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Villages Regional Hospital, The with a distance of 5.15 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summerfield, Florida (ZIP Code 34491)

For individuals considering a move to Summerfield, Florida (ZIP code 34491), or those already residing within its borders, understanding the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare** facilities is crucial, especially for managing conditions like hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of medical care, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. The goal is to offer a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access** for residents, enabling informed decisions regarding their health management.

Summerfield, a growing community, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The area's relative remoteness, coupled with the reliance on personal vehicles, necessitates a thorough examination of available **transportation** options. The "Hypertension Score" considers the practical realities of navigating the region, factoring in potential delays, accessibility concerns, and the availability of alternative **transportation** solutions.

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in and around Summerfield are US-27 and US-441. These highways serve as the main routes connecting the community to larger population centers like Ocala and The Villages, where a greater concentration of healthcare providers exists. Travel times, however, are significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours and on weekends. The drive to Ocala, home to major hospitals and specialist clinics, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the specific location within Summerfield and the time of day. Similarly, reaching The Villages, with its extensive network of medical facilities, can take 15 to 30 minutes.

Local roads, such as County Road 484 and County Road 42, provide alternative routes, but they often involve slower speeds and potentially more traffic congestion, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. These roads are essential for accessing local clinics and pharmacies within Summerfield. The condition of these roads, with varying levels of maintenance, can further influence travel times and the overall convenience of accessing **healthcare**.

Public **transportation** options within Summerfield and to surrounding areas are limited. Marion County's SunTran bus service operates routes that serve some areas, but coverage is not comprehensive, and frequency can be infrequent. Bus routes that may be relevant to residents of 34491 include routes that travel on US-27 and US-441, providing access to healthcare facilities in Ocala and The Villages. However, these routes may not directly serve all residential areas, and the travel times can be significantly longer than driving. ADA accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are available on SunTran buses, making them accessible for individuals with mobility impairments.

The lack of extensive public **transportation** emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles. This is a significant factor in the "Hypertension Score" assessment, as individuals without access to a car face considerable challenges in accessing timely medical care. This is particularly relevant for managing hypertension, which often requires frequent check-ups and medication refills.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Summerfield area, providing an alternative **transportation** option. However, availability can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. Ride-sharing fares can also be a significant expense, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. This cost factor is another consideration in the overall "Hypertension Score."

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. Companies like MedRide and Senior Life Solutions offer non-emergency medical **transportation** in the area. These services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. The availability and cost of these services are crucial factors for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other **transportation** options.

For individuals with hypertension, prompt and reliable access to medical care is critical. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, medication management, and lifestyle modifications are essential for controlling the condition and preventing complications. The "Hypertension Score" takes these factors into account, recognizing that delays or difficulties in accessing healthcare can negatively impact patient outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" for residents of 34491 is, therefore, moderate. While access to healthcare facilities in Ocala and The Villages is possible via car, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** provides alternative solutions, but the cost and availability of these options can be a barrier for some individuals.

For those **moving to Summerfield**, or already residing there, the "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of carefully considering **transportation** needs when choosing a home or managing their health. Proximity to healthcare facilities, ease of access to major roadways, and the availability of alternative **transportation** options should be key considerations. Individuals with hypertension should proactively explore available resources, such as medical **transportation** services, and develop a plan for accessing medical care, including routine check-ups, medication refills, and emergency situations.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that can be influenced by individual circumstances and changes in the local **transportation** landscape. As Summerfield continues to grow, improvements in public **transportation** and the expansion of healthcare services could positively impact the score. Conversely, increased traffic congestion or the lack of affordable **transportation** options could negatively affect the score.

The key takeaway is that while Summerfield offers a pleasant lifestyle, residents must be prepared to navigate the **transportation** challenges to ensure adequate **healthcare access**, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Proactive planning, awareness of available resources, and a willingness to adapt to changing conditions are essential for successful health management in this growing community. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for understanding the realities of **healthcare access** and making informed decisions regarding health and well-being.