32567, Laurel Hill, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32567, Laurel Hill, Florida is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.06 percent of residents in 32567 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Okaloosa Medical Center with a distance of 19.56 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Laurel Hill, Florida (ZIP Code 32567)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and reliable healthcare access. For residents of Laurel Hill, Florida (ZIP Code 32567), the journey to potentially life-saving treatment is intricately woven with transportation realities. This write-up aims to assess the "Lung Cancer Score" for this ZIP code, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for individuals considering a move or already residing in this area. The goal is to illuminate the practicalities of healthcare access, crucial for those diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer.

Laurel Hill, a relatively rural community, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The nearest major medical facilities, equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, are located in Crestview and Fort Walton Beach. This geographical reality immediately introduces the element of *transportation* as a critical factor. The Lung Cancer Score will therefore reflect the efficiency and reliability of getting to these vital resources.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary route to healthcare from Laurel Hill involves navigating the roads. The most direct route to Crestview, home to North Okaloosa Medical Center, utilizes **Highway 4 (US-90)**. A drive of approximately 18 miles, this journey typically takes between 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic. The drive itself is relatively straightforward, but during peak hours, particularly around school drop-off and pick-up times, congestion can add significant minutes to the commute.

For more specialized care, or if seeking a second opinion, the drive to Fort Walton Beach becomes necessary. This journey utilizes **Highway 4 (US-90) East** to **Highway 85 South**, then connects to **Highway 98 East**. The distance is approximately 45 to 50 miles, translating to a drive time of roughly 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. This longer commute introduces greater variability, influenced by traffic volume, weather conditions, and the potential for unforeseen delays.

The condition of the roads also plays a factor. While generally well-maintained, occasional construction or incidents on the highways can cause significant disruptions. The Lung Cancer Score must consider these potential delays, acknowledging the vulnerability of patients requiring timely medical attention. This also includes the availability of parking at each destination.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public *transportation* options in Laurel Hill are exceedingly limited. The Emerald Coast Rider, the regional transit system, primarily serves the more populated areas of Okaloosa County. While the Emerald Coast Rider may offer some routes that pass through or near Laurel Hill, the frequency and scope of these routes are insufficient for reliable healthcare access.

The primary challenge is the lack of direct routes to major medical facilities. Riders would likely need to transfer multiple times, significantly increasing travel time and complexity. Furthermore, the limited operating hours of the public transit system may not align with the scheduling demands of medical appointments, including early morning tests or late afternoon treatments.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. The Emerald Coast Rider is mandated to provide accessible services, but the practicality of navigating multiple transfers and the potential for long wait times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern for many cancer patients. The lack of readily available public *transportation* significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score for this region.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in more urban centers. Availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share to Crestview or Fort Walton Beach can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for those undergoing frequent treatments.

Medical *transportation* services offer a more specialized solution. Companies such as CareRide and First Choice Medical *Transportation* provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often pre-booked and tailored to the specific needs of patients, offering a more reliable and comfortable option. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, especially during peak demand.

The Lung Cancer Score must weigh the advantages of these services against their limitations. While ride-sharing provides some flexibility, its reliability and cost are concerns. Medical *transportation* offers a more tailored solution but comes with higher costs and potential scheduling constraints.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for Laurel Hill, Florida (ZIP Code 32567) reflects a complex interplay of factors. The drive times, while manageable, are subject to potential delays. The limited public transit options significantly hinder healthcare access. Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* offer alternative solutions, but they come with their own challenges, including cost and availability.

The overall score must consider the potential impact of these factors on patients. For individuals with lung cancer, timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care is paramount. Delays in *transportation* can lead to increased anxiety, missed appointments, and potentially compromised health outcomes.

**Moving to Laurel Hill: A Calculated Decision**

For individuals considering *moving to Laurel Hill*, the Lung Cancer Score should be a significant consideration. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the limitations in healthcare access pose a critical challenge for those with lung cancer or at high risk. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs, explore all *transportation* options, and factor in the potential costs and inconveniences associated with accessing medical care.

The Lung Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the practical realities of healthcare access. It highlights the importance of proactive planning, including establishing relationships with healthcare providers, arranging reliable *transportation*, and understanding the resources available in the surrounding areas. The journey to healthcare in Laurel Hill is a journey that requires careful navigation, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of the *transportation* landscape.