32223, Jacksonville, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32223, Jacksonville, Florida is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.47 percent of residents in 32223 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nh Jacksonville with a distance of 6.73 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 32223**

Considering a move to Jacksonville, Florida, and specifically ZIP Code 32223? This assessment delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, focusing on lung cancer treatment, and the transportation landscape that shapes it. Understanding the ease, or difficulty, of reaching medical facilities is paramount, especially for individuals facing a cancer diagnosis. This analysis offers a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation options, drive times, and accessibility features, painting a realistic picture of healthcare access in this area.

ZIP Code 32223, situated in Jacksonville's Southside, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the area boasts a suburban feel, the sprawling nature of the city necessitates reliance on personal vehicles. Public transit, although present, may not always be a viable option, particularly for those undergoing cancer treatment. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these factors, offering a comprehensive understanding of the transportation hurdles residents might face.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the automobile. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 95 (I-95) and Interstate 295 (I-295) form the arterial network, connecting 32223 to various healthcare providers. The commute time to these facilities is a critical factor.

The Mayo Clinic, a renowned cancer treatment center, is located approximately 15-20 minutes away, depending on traffic conditions, via I-295 North. Baptist Medical Center South, another significant healthcare provider, is accessible within a similar timeframe, usually via I-95 South. However, morning and evening rush hours can significantly impact these drive times, potentially extending commutes to 30 minutes or more.

Other important roadways include Philips Highway, which provides direct access to various medical offices and clinics. US-1 (Philips Highway) is often congested, particularly during peak hours, adding to the travel time. Baymeadows Road offers another route to healthcare facilities, but it too can experience heavy traffic. These fluctuating drive times are a significant consideration for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public transit services in the area. However, the coverage within 32223 is limited. Bus routes, such as the 10, 11, and 18, serve portions of the ZIP code, but the frequency of service may not be sufficient for regular medical appointments.

Accessibility is a critical concern for those with mobility limitations. The JTA offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long wait times can pose challenges for those undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, or other side effects.

Furthermore, the reliance on transfers can significantly increase travel time. A trip from a location within 32223 to a major healthcare facility might involve multiple bus changes, adding to the overall travel duration and increasing the burden on patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. They provide on-demand transportation, eliminating the need to rely on public transit schedules or personal vehicles. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available in Jacksonville. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like First Coast Medical Transport and Access Medical Transportation offer these services. The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the distance, level of care required, and insurance coverage.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" – A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 32223 is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of various factors. The score is influenced by drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The score would be lower during peak traffic hours, when drive times are extended. It would also be lower for individuals who are unable to drive or who have limited mobility, as public transit options may be inadequate, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation may be prohibitive.

The score would be higher for individuals with access to a personal vehicle, who are able to drive during off-peak hours, and who have the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services. The proximity of major healthcare facilities, such as the Mayo Clinic and Baptist Medical Center South, contributes to a higher score.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Jacksonville**

For individuals considering moving to Jacksonville, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, this "Lung Cancer Score" provides valuable insights. It highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options and healthcare access before making a relocation decision.

Factors to consider include proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the affordability of various transportation options. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care, which is paramount for successful cancer treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a number; it is a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in ZIP Code 32223. It is a reminder that transportation is an integral part of the healthcare equation, and that careful planning is essential for individuals seeking to move to Jacksonville.