32211, Jacksonville, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32211, Jacksonville, Florida is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.33 percent of residents in 32211 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.28 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 32211

The quest for optimal healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, becomes intricately interwoven with the realities of transportation. This write-up, focusing on ZIP code 32211 in Jacksonville, Florida, aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering various transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The goal is to illuminate the practical challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking treatment, especially those considering moving to Jacksonville.

ZIP code 32211, encompassing areas like Arlington and Regency, presents a diverse landscape of residential neighborhoods and commercial hubs. Its proximity to major thoroughfares and healthcare facilities is a critical factor in determining its "Lung Cancer Score." This score, though not a formal metric, reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can access vital cancer care, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries to Care**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option hinges on the accessibility of major roadways and the prevailing traffic conditions. From the heart of 32211, a journey to the Mayo Clinic, a renowned cancer treatment center, typically involves navigating the heavily trafficked **Atlantic Boulevard** and then the **J. Turner Butler Boulevard (JTB)**. During peak hours, this commute can easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, a significant consideration for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing debilitating symptoms.

Alternatively, accessing Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, another prominent healthcare provider, often involves utilizing **University Boulevard** and then either **I-95** or **Philips Highway**. The duration of this trip varies, ranging from 20 to 35 minutes depending on traffic congestion. The **Southside Connector**, a crucial artery, also offers access to various medical facilities, but its effectiveness is contingent on the specific origin and destination within 32211.

The distance to smaller clinics and specialists within the area might be shorter, but the overall transportation landscape must be considered. The "Lung Cancer Score" acknowledges that even seemingly short drives can become arduous for patients dealing with the physical and emotional toll of cancer.

**Public Transit: A Network of Routes and Challenges**

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public transit services in 32211. Several bus routes traverse the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, relying on public transit for cancer care presents its own set of hurdles. The frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited. Waiting times at bus stops, especially during inclement weather, can be challenging for patients with compromised immune systems or those experiencing treatment side effects.

Several JTA routes, including numbers **10, 14, and 20**, serve areas within 32211 and connect to major medical centers. The **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** accessibility features on JTA buses, such as ramps and designated seating, are crucial for patients with mobility limitations. However, the availability of these features and the overall convenience of public transit depend heavily on the specific route, time of day, and the individual's physical condition. The "Lung Cancer Score" recognizes that while public transit offers an option, it might not always be the most practical or comfortable choice for cancer patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate bus schedules or parking challenges. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent appointments. Moreover, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand, can be uncertain.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Care Ride** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services often cater to patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the availability and affordability of these services as crucial components of healthcare access.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Context: Considerations for Moving to Jacksonville**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 32211 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that varies depending on individual circumstances. For someone considering moving to Jacksonville with a lung cancer diagnosis, the score would likely be influenced by factors such as the stage of the disease, the treatment plan, and the patient's physical capabilities.

The availability of multiple transportation options, from private vehicles to medical transport, contributes to a relatively moderate "Lung Cancer Score" for this ZIP code. However, the score could be negatively impacted by traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Care**

Access to healthcare, particularly cancer care, is fundamentally tied to the ease and efficiency of transportation. In 32211, residents have a range of options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of considering these factors when assessing healthcare access. While the area offers a degree of accessibility, individuals should carefully evaluate their specific needs and circumstances to determine the most suitable transportation solutions. Understanding the transportation landscape is a crucial step in navigating the complex journey of cancer treatment and ensuring that patients can focus on their health and well-being.