32079, Penney Farms, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32079, Penney Farms, Florida is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 32079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent's Clay County with a distance of 9.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Penney Farms (ZIP Code 32079)

Penney Farms, Florida, a charming haven for retirees, presents a unique set of considerations when evaluating healthcare access, particularly for those concerned about lung cancer. This analysis, framed as a “Lung Cancer Score,” delves into the complexities of transportation options within and around ZIP Code 32079, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to paint a vivid picture for individuals considering moving to Penney Farms or seeking care in the area, allowing for informed decisions regarding their healthcare journey.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a formal medical metric, but rather a qualitative assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing crucial lung cancer-related healthcare services, primarily oncology appointments, diagnostic imaging, and radiation therapy. The score considers the practicalities of *transportation*, recognizing that timely access to care is paramount in managing this serious disease.

The primary artery for *transportation* in and out of Penney Farms is US-16. This two-lane highway, while scenic, can become congested during peak hours, especially as it approaches the more populated areas of Green Cove Springs and Orange Park. Driving to major healthcare facilities, such as those in Jacksonville, becomes a time-sensitive endeavor.

The nearest major hospital, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, is approximately 20-25 minutes away, depending on traffic. The journey primarily involves navigating US-16 and then transitioning onto US-17, a slightly wider road that offers a more direct route. However, this route can experience significant delays during rush hour, potentially adding 15-20 minutes to the commute. This is a critical factor for patients undergoing treatment, where punctuality is vital.

For specialized lung cancer care, including pulmonologists and oncologists, patients in Penney Farms often travel to Jacksonville. The most direct route involves taking US-16 East to US-17 North, then merging onto I-295 North, a beltway that encircles Jacksonville. From there, access to various hospitals and clinics is relatively straightforward.

The drive time to Baptist Medical Center South, a well-regarded facility for cancer care, is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey, while manageable, requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The same applies to the Mayo Clinic, a world-renowned medical center, which is roughly a 60-75 minute drive, also via I-295.

The alternative route, avoiding I-295, involves taking US-16 East to US-17 North and then navigating the city streets of Jacksonville. This option, however, is generally less desirable due to increased traffic congestion and a higher likelihood of delays.

Public *transportation* options within Penney Farms and the surrounding areas are limited. The Clay County Transportation Department (CCTD) provides a demand-response service, offering door-to-door *transportation* for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, however, requires advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for appointments at peak times.

The CCTD does not operate fixed-route buses in Penney Farms, making relying on public transit for healthcare *access* challenging. The lack of readily available public *transportation* presents a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to health conditions. The absence of regular bus routes means patients must rely on alternative *transportation* solutions.

The CCTD does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring *transportation* *access* for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited scope of the service and the need for advance booking can still pose challenges for those requiring frequent appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Penney Farms and offer a convenient, albeit potentially expensive, *transportation* option. The availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand in the area. Patients may experience longer wait times during peak hours or in the early morning or late evening.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, provide specialized *transportation* for patients who require medical assistance during their journey. These services are typically reserved for patients with significant mobility limitations or those requiring medical monitoring during *transportation*. While offering a valuable service, medical *transportation* is generally the most expensive option.

The cost of *transportation* is a critical factor, especially for patients undergoing long-term treatment. The cumulative cost of ride-sharing services, medical *transportation*, or even fuel and parking fees can quickly become a financial burden. This financial strain can exacerbate the stress associated with a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The decision to move to Penney Farms, or to seek healthcare in the area, necessitates a thorough assessment of the *transportation* landscape. While the community offers a tranquil and peaceful environment, the limited *transportation* options and the drive times to major healthcare facilities must be carefully considered, particularly for individuals with lung cancer or those at high risk.

For individuals considering *moving to Penney Farms*, it is crucial to assess their ability to drive or access reliable *transportation*. The availability of a caregiver or family member who can provide *transportation* support is a significant advantage. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical *transportation* is essential for making informed decisions.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Penney Farms, based on the current *transportation* infrastructure, is moderate. While access to quality healthcare is available, the drive times and the limited public *transportation* options present challenges. Patients need to plan their appointments carefully, considering traffic conditions and the availability of alternative *transportation* solutions.

The future may bring improvements to *transportation* *access* in the area, such as increased ride-sharing availability or expanded public transit options. However, for now, individuals seeking healthcare in Penney Farms must be prepared to navigate the complexities of *transportation* to ensure timely access to essential medical services. Careful planning and a proactive approach to *transportation* are key to navigating the healthcare landscape and ensuring the best possible outcomes.