32228, Jacksonville, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32228, Jacksonville, Florida is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

97.78 percent of residents in 32228 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center Beaches with a distance of 8.13 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 32228

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is a critical component of patient outcomes. This write-up, focusing on ZIP code 32228 in Jacksonville, Florida, assesses the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options, considering the intricate interplay of transportation infrastructure, public transit availability, and alternative mobility solutions. Understanding these factors is paramount for residents and those contemplating **moving to Jacksonville**, particularly if they have pre-existing health concerns. This analysis provides a “Lung Cancer Score” reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical services within this specific geographic area.

ZIP code 32228, encompassing the neighborhoods of Mandarin and Julington Creek, presents a unique challenge. While offering a desirable suburban lifestyle, it is characterized by a car-dependent environment. This reality significantly influences **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals facing mobility limitations or lacking personal vehicles. The **transportation** landscape, therefore, becomes a crucial determinant of the Lung Cancer Score.

The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 295 (I-295) and San Jose Boulevard (US-13). Commuting to major healthcare facilities, such as Baptist Medical Center South, located just outside the ZIP code, requires navigating these roadways. During peak hours, I-295 can experience significant congestion, potentially adding substantial time to travel. A typical drive to Baptist Medical Center South, absent heavy traffic, might take 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, or even longer. This delay could prove detrimental, especially for patients requiring urgent medical attention.

San Jose Boulevard, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers an alternative route. However, this road is also prone to traffic, particularly near intersections. The travel time along San Jose Boulevard to Baptist Medical Center South is comparable to I-295, again varying significantly based on traffic conditions. Further, the distance to other major hospitals like Mayo Clinic, located further north, would require a longer drive, potentially exceeding an hour during peak times.

Public transit options within ZIP code 32228 are limited. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides bus service, but the routes are infrequent and primarily serve the main thoroughfares. Route 10, for example, runs along San Jose Boulevard, offering a connection to downtown Jacksonville and other areas. However, the frequency of this route is often insufficient for timely access to medical appointments. The buses themselves are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for passengers with disabilities.

Unfortunately, the bus system's coverage in the residential areas of Mandarin and Julington Creek is sparse. This necessitates a walk to the nearest bus stop, which can be challenging for patients with mobility limitations or those undergoing cancer treatment. Furthermore, the extended travel times associated with bus routes, coupled with the need for potential transfers, can significantly increase the overall commute time, adding to the stress and burden on patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. These services are readily available in ZIP code 32228, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant barrier for some patients, particularly those with limited financial resources. The cost of frequent trips to and from medical appointments can quickly accumulate, potentially impacting the patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are another option. Companies like First Coast Medical Transport and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services offer a more specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those who need a medically equipped vehicle. However, these services typically require prior booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing services.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 32228 is therefore moderately challenging. While the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides a degree of accessibility, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit coverage create significant hurdles. The potential for traffic congestion on I-295 and San Jose Boulevard further complicates the commute, especially during peak hours.

For individuals considering **moving to Jacksonville** and residing in this ZIP code, careful consideration of these transportation challenges is essential. Those with existing health conditions, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments, should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities or ensure reliable access to alternative transportation options. The lack of robust public transit and the potential financial burden of ride-sharing services necessitate a proactive approach to planning and securing transportation resources.

The score reflects the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare. This might include:

* **Prioritizing proximity:** Choosing housing closer to major hospitals or medical centers.
* **Exploring carpooling:** Coordinating transportation with family, friends, or support groups.
* **Budgeting for transportation:** Allocating funds for ride-sharing or medical transportation services.
* **Investigating patient assistance programs:** Exploring financial aid options for transportation costs.
* **Advocating for improved public transit:** Supporting initiatives to expand bus routes and increase frequency.

The Lung Cancer Score for 32228 underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare access, acknowledging the interplay of **transportation**, socioeconomic factors, and the critical need for timely medical care. The challenges presented by the current infrastructure necessitate a proactive approach to ensure that residents have equitable access to the life-saving treatments they deserve. The **healthcare access** in the area is manageable, but not without effort.