34945, Fort Pierce, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 34945, Fort Pierce, Florida is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.13 percent of residents in 34945 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Lawnwood Hospital with a distance of 5.46 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 34945

The quest for optimal health, especially when managing conditions like hypertension, is inextricably linked to reliable **transportation** and seamless **healthcare access**. This write-up delves into the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 34945, a region encompassing portions of Fort Pierce, Florida, offering a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment. This score, while not a formal medical metric, evaluates the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, particularly those crucial for hypertension management, considering various **transportation** options. If you are **moving to Fort Pierce**, this is essential information.

The foundation of our assessment lies in understanding the geographical layout. ZIP Code 34945 is characterized by a mix of residential areas, commercial centers, and natural landscapes, with the Indian River Lagoon bordering its eastern edge. The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** include US Highway 1, a major north-south thoroughfare, and the Florida's Turnpike, providing efficient access to other parts of the state. Additional key roads include Midway Road, Okeechobee Road, and Edwards Road, which facilitate internal movement within the ZIP Code.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The "Hypertension Score" begins with a drive-time analysis, a critical factor in **healthcare access**. The drive time to healthcare facilities significantly impacts the ability to attend appointments, obtain medications, and receive timely care. We will focus on key healthcare providers in the area, including hospitals, primary care physicians, and pharmacies, all essential for hypertension management.

From a central residential point in 34945, a drive to Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute, a major hospital with specialized cardiology services, typically takes between 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on US Highway 1 or the more direct route via Edwards Road. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend these times.

Accessing primary care physicians, crucial for ongoing hypertension management, often involves shorter drive times. Numerous clinics and practices are located throughout the ZIP Code, with drive times generally ranging from 5-15 minutes. The specific location of the clinic relative to the resident's home will significantly impact the drive time.

Pharmacies, where medications are dispensed, are also readily accessible. Drive times to pharmacies, such as CVS, Walgreens, and local independent pharmacies, are typically 5-10 minutes, ensuring convenient medication refills and access to other health-related products.

**Public Transit Realities:**

Public **transportation** presents another facet of the "Hypertension Score". The St. Lucie County Transit System (SLCTS) provides bus services within the county, including routes that traverse 34945. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes can be a limiting factor for **healthcare access**.

Several routes, such as Route 1 (US 1), Route 3 (Okeechobee Road), and Route 6 (Midway Road), serve areas within the ZIP Code. These routes offer connections to major healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and other essential destinations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. SLCTS buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the fixed-route nature of the bus system may pose challenges for individuals residing in areas not directly served by a bus route or those with difficulty navigating bus stops.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative **transportation** option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. These services offer on-demand **transportation** to healthcare appointments, pharmacies, and other destinations. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on demand and time of day.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the area, including:

* **Medicaid Transportation:** For eligible individuals, Medicaid provides coverage for medical **transportation**.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Companies:** These companies offer various levels of **transportation** services, from basic ambulatory to wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** In emergency situations, ambulance services provide immediate medical **transportation**.

**Hypertension Score Considerations:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 34945 is influenced by several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary consideration, with shorter drive times contributing to a higher score. The availability and frequency of public **transportation** routes, particularly those serving healthcare facilities, are also crucial.

ADA accessibility of public **transportation** is another important factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare services. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services further enhance the score.

The density of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, also plays a role. A higher density of providers increases **healthcare access** and improves the score.

The overall cost of **transportation**, including fuel, public transit fares, and ride-sharing fees, is another consideration. Affordable **transportation** options contribute to a higher score.

**The Overall Assessment:**

Based on these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for 34945 can be considered moderately favorable. While drive times to major healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can be a barrier for some residents. The public **transportation** system offers some coverage, but its frequency and route limitations may pose challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provides additional options. The density of healthcare providers is relatively good, with numerous clinics, pharmacies, and the presence of Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute.

The "Hypertension Score" can be improved by enhancing public **transportation** services, increasing the frequency and coverage of bus routes, and improving ADA accessibility. Promoting awareness of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** options can also enhance **healthcare access**.

**Moving to Fort Pierce** and managing hypertension requires careful consideration of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** factors. This "Hypertension Score" write-up provides a valuable starting point for residents of 34945, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.