32221, Jacksonville, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32221, Jacksonville, Florida is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.18 percent of residents in 32221 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent's Riverside with a distance of 8.87 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32221**

Nestled in the sprawling embrace of Jacksonville, Florida, ZIP Code 32221 presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," delves into the intricacies of transportation options, accessibility, and the overall ease of reaching vital medical services. Considering the crucial role of timely access to care in lung cancer outcomes, understanding the commute landscape becomes paramount for residents and those contemplating moving to Jacksonville.

The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access. This is not merely a statistic; it’s a reflection of the lived experience of individuals navigating the complexities of illness and treatment. The goal is to provide a clear picture for informed decision-making, especially for those potentially vulnerable to lung cancer or seeking a supportive environment.

**Driving Directions and Commute Times**

The primary arteries for transportation in 32221 are the Interstate 295 (I-295) beltway and the major thoroughfare of Beach Boulevard. These highways and roads are the lifeblood of the area, dictating commute times to various healthcare facilities. For residents in the western reaches of 32221, accessing the Mayo Clinic on San Pablo Road, a premier cancer treatment center, involves a drive along Beach Boulevard, typically taking between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The drive to Baptist Medical Center Beaches, another key healthcare provider, also necessitates a journey along Beach Boulevard. This commute, usually around 15 to 25 minutes, offers relatively straightforward access. However, peak hours can significantly impact travel times, emphasizing the importance of planning and anticipating potential delays. The overall ease of driving is a factor, but the reliance on a single major road can create vulnerabilities.

For those seeking care at the University of Florida Health Jacksonville, located downtown, the commute is more complex. This journey involves navigating I-295 to the downtown core, a trip that can consume 30 to 45 minutes, or even longer during rush hour. The potential for traffic congestion on I-295 and downtown streets significantly impacts healthcare access, making it a critical consideration for residents.

**Public Transportation Options**

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public transportation within 32221, offering a crucial alternative for those without personal vehicles. Several bus routes traverse the area, including routes 14, 102, and 20. Route 14 runs along Beach Boulevard, connecting various points within 32221 and providing access to healthcare facilities along the route. Route 102 offers access to downtown, including UF Health Jacksonville. Route 20 provides connections to other areas of Jacksonville.

The JTA’s commitment to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a vital consideration. All JTA buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts, ensuring access for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier. Long wait times and limited service hours can impede healthcare access, especially for appointments or treatments requiring specific schedules.

The JTA also operates the Skyway, a free elevated monorail system in downtown Jacksonville. While the Skyway can provide convenient access to downtown healthcare facilities, it is not directly accessible from 32221. Residents must first utilize bus routes to reach a Skyway station, adding to the overall travel time. The Skyway's operational hours and coverage area must be considered when planning healthcare transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing commute times compared to public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing vehicles can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited service. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide specialized transportation. Companies like First Coast Medical Transport and American Medical Response (AMR) offer services tailored to patients requiring assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing specialized medical attention during transport.

Medical transport services often require advance booking, ensuring availability and accommodating specific needs. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary. The availability of medical transport within 32221 is generally good, but residents should research providers and understand insurance coverage before relying on these services.

**Overall Assessment and Considerations**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 32221 reveals a mixed picture of healthcare access. While driving offers relatively convenient access to several healthcare facilities, the reliance on major roadways and the potential for traffic congestion create vulnerabilities. Public transportation provides an alternative, but limited service frequency and route coverage can pose challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer additional options, but cost and availability must be considered.

For individuals with lung cancer or those at high risk, the ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is paramount. This score highlights the importance of careful planning, understanding transportation options, and considering potential delays. The score underscores the importance of healthcare access in Jacksonville and the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and services.

When moving to Jacksonville, prospective residents should thoroughly assess the transportation options available to them. This includes considering their individual needs, mobility limitations, and financial resources. Researching healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage, and familiarizing oneself with the local transportation landscape are essential steps in ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care. The decision to move to Jacksonville should be informed by a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape, including the commute dynamics within 32221.