32922, Cocoa, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32922, Cocoa, Florida is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.12 percent of residents in 32922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Steward Rockledge Hospital with a distance of 2.29 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cocoa, Florida (ZIP Code 32922)

The diagnosis of lung cancer is a life-altering event. Beyond the immediate medical concerns, patients face the daunting task of navigating treatment, which often involves frequent appointments for imaging, chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up care. For residents of Cocoa, Florida (ZIP Code 32922), the availability and accessibility of these vital services are critical. This Lung Cancer Score assessment analyzes the transportation landscape, aiming to provide a clearer picture of healthcare access for individuals in this community. The goal is to help residents understand the challenges and opportunities they may face, particularly those considering moving to Cocoa.

The geographic reality of ZIP Code 32922, a coastal community, heavily influences healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare, **US-1 (North Cocoa Boulevard)**, serves as a crucial artery, connecting residents to medical facilities north and south. **State Road 520 (King Street)** provides an east-west corridor, offering another route to healthcare destinations. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, a critical factor for patients undergoing treatment.

Drive times to major healthcare providers are central to the Lung Cancer Score. **Wuesthoff Health System – Rockledge**, a prominent hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via US-1, depending on traffic conditions. **Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center** in Melbourne, a more comprehensive facility, is roughly a 30-45 minute drive, also primarily via US-1. These estimates are crucial for understanding the potential burden on patients, particularly those experiencing fatigue or other side effects of treatment. The time spent commuting can directly impact their quality of life and their ability to adhere to their treatment plans.

Public transportation in Cocoa offers limited options for healthcare access. The **Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT)** system provides bus service, but routes and schedules are not always conducive to frequent medical appointments. Route 1, for example, runs along US-1, potentially offering a connection to some medical facilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier. Accessibility is another concern. While SCAT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, the overall coverage of the system may not adequately serve all areas within the ZIP code, especially for those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, present an alternative transportation option. Their availability in Cocoa is generally reliable, offering a degree of flexibility for patients. However, the cost of frequent rides can quickly become a financial burden, particularly for those on fixed incomes or facing significant medical expenses. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be affected by driver availability, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. This can pose a challenge for patients needing timely transportation to appointments.

Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance for patients who require it. Companies like **CareRide** and **First Medical Transportation** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), often equipped with wheelchair accessibility. These services are typically pre-booked and can offer a more reliable and comfortable option for patients with mobility issues or other specific needs. However, the availability of these services, and their coverage by insurance, can vary. Thorough research and planning are essential to ensure access to these crucial resources.

The Lung Cancer Score must also consider the availability of specialized cancer care within the community. **Health First Cancer Institute** in Melbourne offers comprehensive oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. **Wuesthoff Health System** also provides cancer care services. Proximity to these facilities is vital, as it reduces the travel burden and allows patients to receive treatment closer to home.

Beyond the physical transportation options, the Lung Cancer Score must consider the patient's ability to navigate the healthcare system. This includes the availability of patient navigators, who can assist with appointment scheduling, insurance issues, and other logistical challenges. These navigators are a crucial resource, especially for patients who may be overwhelmed by the complexities of cancer treatment. They provide invaluable support, improving healthcare access and ensuring patients can focus on their health.

The decision to move to Cocoa, Florida, must be carefully considered, particularly for individuals with existing health conditions or those at high risk for lung cancer. While the area offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the need for a thorough assessment of healthcare access. Potential residents should research the location of medical facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the cost of healthcare services. They should also investigate the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 32922 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance is positive, the limitations of public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net for those with specific needs. The overall score is dependent on the individual’s needs and resources.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access is undeniable. For lung cancer patients in Cocoa, Florida, the ability to get to appointments, receive treatment, and access support services is paramount. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a guide, emphasizing the importance of planning, research, and understanding the available resources to navigate the complexities of healthcare in this coastal community. It is essential to consider all factors, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, to ensure the best possible outcomes for those battling this challenging disease. The availability of specialized cancer care, patient navigators, and support groups further contributes to a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access.