The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32217, Jacksonville, Florida is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
69.34 percent of residents in 32217 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent's Southside with a distance of 2.41 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 32217, Jacksonville, Florida
Lung Cancer Score | 64 |
---|---|
People Score | 22 |
Provider Score | 94 |
Hospital Score | 26 |
Travel Score | 70 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 32217 | Jacksonville | Florida |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 4.01 | 3.48 | 2.68 |
1 Car | 26.45 | 26.04 | 22.58 |
2 Cars | 50.05 | 43.77 | 44.13 |
3 or More Cars | 19.49 | 26.71 | 30.62 |
Vehicular Access in 32217, Jacksonville, Florida
## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 32217
Understanding healthcare access is paramount, particularly for vulnerable populations. This analysis explores the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 32217 in Jacksonville, Florida, focusing on its impact on lung cancer patients. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, culminating in a Lung Cancer Score that reflects the ease of reaching vital healthcare. This information is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Jacksonville, ensuring they can access timely and appropriate medical care.
ZIP Code 32217, encompassing the Arlington area, presents unique transportation challenges. The area is predominantly suburban, characterized by single-family homes and a dependence on personal vehicles. This reliance significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those without a car. The availability and efficiency of alternative transportation methods are, therefore, critical factors in assessing the Lung Cancer Score.
**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Access**
The primary roadways influencing healthcare access in 32217 are Atlantic Boulevard, Arlington Expressway, and Merrill Road. Driving times to major hospitals and cancer treatment centers are highly dependent on traffic flow, which can fluctuate dramatically during peak hours. Jacksonville's notorious traffic congestion, particularly on the Arlington Expressway, can significantly delay appointments, impacting treatment schedules and patient outcomes.
The University of Florida Health Jacksonville (UF Health) is a major healthcare provider located near downtown. Driving from 32217 to UF Health typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on the Arlington Expressway and the downtown area. Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, another significant facility, is accessible via Atlantic Boulevard and the Arlington Expressway, with similar drive times. The Mayo Clinic, located further south, presents a longer commute, potentially exceeding 45 minutes, which is a major consideration for patients needing frequent treatments.
**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) operates the public transit system, providing bus routes throughout the city. However, the coverage in 32217 is limited compared to more urban areas. Several bus routes serve the area, including the 10, 14, and 19, connecting residents to major thoroughfares and transfer points.
While these routes offer a crucial lifeline for some, their frequency and reach are often insufficient for the specific needs of lung cancer patients. Long wait times, multiple transfers, and the potential for exposure to inclement weather can exacerbate the challenges faced by those undergoing treatment. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, but the overall system's limitations can still hinder healthcare access.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive themselves or lacking access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments, creating a financial barrier to healthcare access. Availability can also be an issue, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.
Specialized medical transportation services cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve additional costs, making them less readily available for urgent or last-minute appointments. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) offer medical transportation services in Jacksonville, but their coverage and availability in 32217 should be carefully investigated.
**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**
The Lung Cancer Score for 32217 is not a single number but a composite assessment considering multiple factors. It weighs the drive times to major cancer centers, the efficiency and accessibility of public transit, the affordability and availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options.
The score is also influenced by the patient's individual circumstances, including their mobility, financial resources, and the frequency of required treatments. A patient with limited mobility and no access to a vehicle would likely face a lower score than someone with a car and the financial means to use ride-sharing services.
Considering the factors above, the Lung Cancer Score for 32217 is moderate. While the area has access to major healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present significant challenges. The cost and availability of ride-sharing services and the need for pre-booking medical transportation further complicate access.
**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**
This analysis has important implications for residents of 32217 and those considering moving to Jacksonville. Lung cancer patients or individuals at high risk should carefully evaluate the transportation options available and their potential impact on healthcare access.
Prospective movers should consider the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the potential costs of transportation when choosing a location. Understanding these factors is essential for ensuring timely and effective medical care.
**Recommendations and Future Considerations**
To improve the Lung Cancer Score for 32217, several steps could be taken. Expanding public transit routes and increasing their frequency would significantly enhance healthcare access. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could alleviate the financial burden on patients. Promoting awareness of medical transportation options and ensuring their availability in the area would also be beneficial.
Furthermore, community initiatives to support patients with transportation needs, such as volunteer driver programs or partnerships with local organizations, could play a vital role. Continued monitoring of transportation infrastructure and healthcare access is crucial to identify and address emerging challenges.
By understanding the complexities of transportation and healthcare access in 32217, residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers can work together to create a more supportive environment for lung cancer patients and all those seeking medical care. This effort is critical for improving health outcomes and ensuring that everyone can access the care they need.
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