32127, Port Orange, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32127, Port Orange, Florida is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.58 percent of residents in 32127 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Health Medical Center with a distance of 7.30 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 32127**

The decision to relocate, particularly when considering healthcare needs, is a complex one. For individuals considering a move to Port Orange, Florida (ZIP code 32127), understanding the accessibility of lung cancer care is paramount. This write-up provides a detailed assessment of transportation options and potential challenges in accessing vital healthcare services, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" to aid in informed decision-making.

The primary determinant of healthcare access is the availability and efficiency of **transportation**. In Port Orange, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The major thoroughfare is Interstate 95 (I-95), providing north-south connectivity. Accessing healthcare facilities in Daytona Beach, a major hub for medical services, often necessitates navigating this highway. East-west travel is facilitated by Dunlawton Avenue (State Road 421), a critical artery for local movement.

Drive times are crucial. From central Port Orange, a drive to AdventHealth Daytona Beach, a major hospital, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-95 and the local roads. The drive to Halifax Health Medical Center of Daytona Beach, another significant healthcare provider, is similar, often requiring a slightly longer journey due to the need to navigate city streets. During peak hours, these drive times can increase substantially, impacting appointment adherence and potentially exacerbating health concerns.

Public **transportation** options in Volusia County, including Port Orange, are limited. The Volusia County Transportation Authority (Votran) provides bus service. Route 18 serves Port Orange, connecting to Daytona Beach. However, the frequency of these buses is limited, and travel times are significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, necessitating transfers and increasing travel duration.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. Votran buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, and many bus stops are designed with accessibility in mind. However, the practical realities of using public **transportation** with a medical condition, such as lung cancer, can be challenging. The need to navigate multiple stops, potential exposure to the elements, and the physical demands of boarding and disembarking can be significant barriers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to public **transportation** and personal vehicles. These services are generally available in Port Orange and Daytona Beach, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or individuals with limited financial resources. The reliability of ride-sharing services can also be a concern, with potential delays or cancellations impacting appointment schedules.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public **transportation**, and availability may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the area, including, but not limited to, First Choice Medical Transportation and American Medical Response (AMR).

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities is another critical factor. While Daytona Beach offers a concentration of hospitals and specialist clinics, access from Port Orange requires travel. The availability of specialized lung cancer care, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy centers, is crucial. Assessing the proximity and accessibility of these specialists is essential for comprehensive care.

**Healthcare access** also encompasses the availability of support services. Cancer support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and palliative care services are essential components of a comprehensive care plan. The proximity and accessibility of these resources can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a composite measure reflecting the ease and efficiency of accessing lung cancer care from Port Orange. It considers factors such as drive times, public **transportation** options, ride-sharing availability, medical **transportation** services, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the availability of support services.

To calculate the score, we assign points based on the following criteria:

* **Drive Time:** Points are awarded based on the average drive time to the nearest major hospitals and cancer centers. Shorter drive times receive higher scores.
* **Public Transportation:** Points are awarded based on the frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of Votran bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Points are awarded based on the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation:** Points are awarded based on the availability, cost, and specialized services offered by medical **transportation** providers.
* **Proximity of Healthcare Facilities:** Points are awarded based on the number and type of lung cancer specialists and support services available within a reasonable distance.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing poor access and 10 representing excellent access. Based on the factors assessed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 32127 is estimated to be 6. This score reflects the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the potential challenges of navigating traffic and accessing specialized care.

For individuals considering **moving to Port Orange**, this score provides a starting point for evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer care. Further investigation, including personal visits to healthcare facilities, consultations with healthcare providers, and exploration of available support services, is highly recommended. This detailed assessment is designed to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and **transportation** options.