32713, Debary, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32713, Debary, Florida is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.48 percent of residents in 32713 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Fish Memorial with a distance of 2.42 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 32713 (DeBary, Florida)

The air hangs thick and humid in DeBary, Florida (ZIP Code 32713), a haven nestled along the St. Johns River. Beyond the picturesque landscapes, however, looms a critical concern: healthcare access. For residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, timely and efficient transportation to treatment becomes paramount. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for DeBary, focusing on the crucial element of transportation to healthcare facilities, specifically those equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment. Considering the demographics and geographic layout of the area, we will examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation alternatives. The ultimate goal is to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for residents needing to navigate the often-complex journey from diagnosis to recovery.

DeBary's location, while beautiful, presents a logistical hurdle. The city is centrally located in Volusia County, but major healthcare providers are concentrated in neighboring cities like Orlando and Daytona Beach. This necessitates a reliance on various modes of transportation, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For a lung cancer patient, the ability to quickly and comfortably reach appointments, chemotherapy sessions, radiation treatments, and follow-up care is not just a convenience; it's a matter of survival.

**Driving the Distance: The Arteries of Care**

For many DeBary residents, driving is the primary means of transportation. The major arteries facilitating healthcare access are Interstate 4 (I-4), the primary east-west thoroughfare, and US Highway 17-92, a more local north-south route. The drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

To reach the Orlando Health Cancer Institute, a leading cancer treatment center in Orlando, the drive via I-4 typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Morning and evening rush hours can easily extend this commute, adding stress and potential delays for patients. Avoiding I-4 during peak times is crucial, but this may mean alternative routes like US-17-92, which can take an hour or longer, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Daytona Beach, approximately 30 miles to the northeast, offers another healthcare option. AdventHealth Daytona Beach is a well-regarded facility. The drive, primarily on I-4 and then east on US-92, can take 45 minutes to an hour, again contingent on traffic flow. The same traffic considerations apply.

These drive times highlight the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for significant delays. For patients experiencing fatigue, pain, or other side effects of treatment, the stress of driving can be overwhelming.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in DeBary are limited, impacting the "Lung Cancer Score." The Volusia County Transportation Authority (Votran) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are not designed for frequent or direct trips to major healthcare facilities.

The Votran Route 20 serves DeBary, offering connections to Deltona and ultimately to the SunRail commuter rail. However, the SunRail, while offering a relatively comfortable ride, does not directly serve many hospitals or cancer centers. Passengers would need to transfer to local bus routes or utilize ride-sharing services to reach their final destination. This multi-leg journey can be time-consuming and challenging, especially for individuals with mobility limitations.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of Votran buses is crucial. Ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps, lifts, and designated seating for individuals with disabilities is essential for patients who may have difficulty navigating steps or walking long distances. Information regarding the ADA compliance of each route and the availability of accessible vehicles should be readily available to patients.

The limited scope and complexity of public transit in DeBary significantly reduces the "Lung Cancer Score" for those without access to personal vehicles or who cannot drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to driving, but their availability and cost can vary. In DeBary, ride-sharing services are generally available, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make them an expensive option, especially for frequent appointments. Patients should be aware of the potential cost fluctuations and plan accordingly.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide or MedRide, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services typically offer door-to-door service, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and trained drivers who can assist patients. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often come with a higher price tag and require advance booking.

The availability of medical transportation services in DeBary is a positive factor, but the cost and the need for pre-planning can pose challenges. Patients should research and compare prices and services to find the most suitable option.

**Moving to DeBary: Considering Healthcare Access**

For individuals or families considering moving to DeBary, the "Lung Cancer Score" should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. While the city offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in transportation to healthcare facilities must be carefully weighed.

Prospective residents, especially those with a history of cancer or other serious health conditions, should research the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation options, and the costs associated with accessing care. They should also consider the potential for traffic delays and the impact of these delays on their ability to attend appointments and receive timely treatment.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for DeBary (32713) reflects a mixed picture. While the city offers a pleasant environment, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for residents needing access to specialized healthcare, particularly those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation all contribute to a lower score.

Improving the "Lung Cancer Score" requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for expanded public transit routes and schedules, increasing the availability of affordable ride-sharing options, and supporting the growth of medical transportation services. Furthermore, promoting awareness of existing resources and providing assistance to patients in navigating the healthcare system is essential.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of DeBary, regardless of their health status or financial circumstances, have equitable access to the life-saving care they need. This includes a robust and reliable transportation system that connects them to the best possible healthcare facilities.