32113, Citra, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32113, Citra, Florida is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.94 percent of residents in 32113 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Villages Regional Hospital, The with a distance of 31.73 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: 32113 - A Commute to Care Analysis

The journey to healthcare, a vital thread in the fabric of well-being, takes on a specific hue when viewed through the lens of lung cancer care. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 32113 (Citra, Florida), meticulously examines transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, crafting a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the realities of a patient's commute to potentially life-saving treatments. This score, sensitive to drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of alternative transportation, paints a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents of Citra.

Citra, a charming community nestled in Marion County, possesses a unique character, yet its location presents transportation challenges. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care are primarily located in Ocala, a city approximately 20 miles south. This distance, while seemingly manageable, can become a significant barrier for individuals battling a serious illness. The availability and efficiency of transportation options become paramount, directly influencing a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care.

The primary mode of transportation for residents of 32113 is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The most direct route to Ocala typically involves traveling south on US-441, a major arterial road. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take approximately 30-40 minutes. However, this timeframe is subject to fluctuations. Rush hour traffic, particularly during weekday mornings and afternoons, can significantly extend travel times. Accidents, construction, and inclement weather further complicate the commute, adding stress and potential delays for patients already facing the emotional and physical toll of lung cancer.

Alternatively, residents can utilize County Road 318, which intersects with US-441, offering an alternative route. This option, while potentially avoiding some congestion, often involves navigating smaller, less-maintained roads, which may increase travel time and pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The condition of the roads themselves, coupled with the distance, contributes significantly to the overall "Lung Cancer Score," reflecting the potential for increased travel burden.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Marion County Transit System (MCTS) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for healthcare access. While MCTS does serve areas within and around Citra, direct routes to major medical facilities in Ocala are not readily available. Passengers would likely need to transfer buses, potentially involving a lengthy and arduous journey. This reliance on multiple transfers and the inherent unpredictability of public transit, especially for patients undergoing treatment, significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

Furthermore, the accessibility of MCTS buses for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. While the system strives to comply with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) regulations, ensuring accessibility can be a challenge, particularly in rural areas. The availability of ramps, lifts, and designated seating is essential, but the frequency of service and the overall convenience of the routes remain critical factors. The lack of readily available, direct public transit options to healthcare facilities in Ocala severely diminishes the score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potentially more convenient transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services in Citra and surrounding areas can be inconsistent. The number of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in the event of inclement weather, may be limited. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for patients requiring frequent appointments. The financial burden, combined with the potential for unreliable service, contributes to a lower "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another option. Several companies operate in the region, including, but not limited to, First Medical Transportation and AMR (American Medical Response). These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. However, the availability of these services, the associated costs, and the need for prior scheduling can present challenges. The reliability and affordability of medical transportation services are essential components of the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support systems. The presence of family, friends, or community organizations that can provide transportation assistance is invaluable. The availability of volunteer driver programs or the existence of patient advocacy groups that offer transportation support can significantly improve a patient's access to care. The strength of these support networks plays a crucial role in mitigating the challenges posed by transportation limitations.

The decision to move to Citra, or any community, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. For individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool, providing a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in 32113. It highlights the need for proactive planning, the importance of exploring all available transportation options, and the critical role of community support in ensuring that residents receive the timely and consistent care they deserve. The score underscores the necessity of advocating for improved public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, and the expansion of medical transportation services to enhance healthcare access for all residents, especially those facing the challenges of lung cancer.