34953, Port Saint Lucie, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 34953, Port Saint Lucie, Florida is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.70 percent of residents in 34953 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Lucie Medical Center with a distance of 6.14 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 34953**

Navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, demands a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 34953, a region within Port Saint Lucie, Florida, assessing its "Hypertension Score" – a metric reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing alternatives, offering crucial insights for residents and those considering moving to Port Saint Lucie.

The foundation of healthcare access often lies in the convenience of personal vehicle transportation. Within ZIP Code 34953, the primary arteries for movement are Interstate 95 (I-95), the Florida Turnpike, and US Highway 1. These roadways dictate the speed and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. Driving to major healthcare providers, such as Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital, typically involves a drive on I-95 or US Highway 1, with travel times varying depending on traffic conditions. Peak hours can significantly extend these commutes, impacting the timely delivery of care.

The Florida Turnpike, while offering a more direct route to some facilities, incurs tolls, adding an additional cost to healthcare access. Local roads, including Crosstown Parkway, Prima Vista Boulevard, and Port St. Lucie Boulevard, serve as critical connectors, linking residential areas to the major thoroughfares. These roads, while generally less congested than the interstates, can still experience delays, particularly during rush hour. The efficiency of this automotive transportation profoundly influences the Hypertension Score.

Public transportation, while offering an alternative to personal vehicles, presents unique challenges within ZIP Code 34953. The St. Lucie County Transit system provides bus routes, though the network is not as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas. Route 1, running along US Highway 1, offers a vital north-south connection. Route 2 provides service to the western areas of Port Saint Lucie. Route 4 connects to the Tradition area, home to several medical facilities.

These routes, while providing essential links, may not always directly serve all healthcare providers. Transfers may be necessary, increasing travel time. ADA-accessible features, including ramps and lifts, are available on all St. Lucie County Transit buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited, potentially hindering healthcare access for those reliant on public transit. The overall impact on the Hypertension Score is noteworthy.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a flexible transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who find public transit inconvenient. These services are readily available within ZIP Code 34953, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further inflate costs, impacting the affordability of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another crucial element of healthcare access. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer specialized transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. These services are particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. The availability and cost of these services directly influence the Hypertension Score.

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities within and around ZIP Code 34953 also plays a critical role. Proximity to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices significantly impacts commute times and overall healthcare access. Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital, located just west of I-95, is a major healthcare provider for the region. Other facilities, including urgent care centers and primary care physicians' offices, are scattered throughout the area, offering a range of healthcare services.

The availability of pharmacies within convenient proximity to healthcare facilities further enhances the Hypertension Score. Easy access to medication refills is crucial for individuals managing hypertension. Pharmacies located near hospitals, clinics, and primary care offices streamline the process of obtaining necessary medications, minimizing delays and ensuring adherence to treatment plans.

The overall Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 34953 is a composite of these factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, considering traffic conditions and the availability of multiple routes, are a primary determinant. The efficiency and frequency of public transit routes, along with their accessibility features, also influence the score. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services contribute significantly. The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities, including pharmacies, further shapes the score.

For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to access timely and convenient medical care is paramount. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access within ZIP Code 34953. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the existing transportation infrastructure and identifies areas for improvement.

Moving to Port Saint Lucie, especially for individuals with hypertension, requires careful consideration of these factors. Assessing the availability of transportation options, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the overall ease of access to medical services is crucial. Understanding the Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 34953 allows potential residents to make informed decisions, ensuring they can effectively manage their health and well-being.

The ongoing development of infrastructure and the expansion of healthcare services within Port Saint Lucie will continue to shape the Hypertension Score. Investments in public transportation, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the strategic placement of healthcare facilities will all contribute to improving healthcare access for residents. The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment that is accessible, affordable, and efficient, allowing individuals to effectively manage their hypertension and lead healthy lives.