32955, Rockledge, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32955, Rockledge, Florida is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.96 percent of residents in 32955 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Steward Rockledge Hospital with a distance of 1.81 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rockledge, Florida (ZIP Code 32955)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis hangs heavy, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of Rockledge, Florida (ZIP Code 32955), the ability to navigate the local transportation landscape directly impacts their prognosis and quality of life. This Lung Cancer Score provides a comprehensive assessment of transportation options available to those seeking lung cancer care, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. It serves as a crucial guide for individuals already diagnosed, those at risk, and those considering moving to Rockledge, Florida.

The primary concern for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis is the speed and reliability of reaching medical appointments. In Rockledge, the major arteries for transportation are crucial. Interstate 95 (I-95) serves as the main north-south thoroughfare, providing access to major hospitals in Melbourne and Orlando. US Highway 1 runs parallel to I-95, offering a more local route, though often congested. State Road 520 (SR 520) provides east-west access, connecting Rockledge to Cocoa Beach and the Atlantic coast.

Drive times are variable, subject to traffic conditions. During peak hours, commuting to the Health First Viera Hospital (approximately 15 miles south) via I-95 can take upwards of 30-45 minutes. Travel to Orlando's major medical centers, such as Orlando Health or AdventHealth, can easily exceed an hour, particularly during rush hour. US Highway 1 offers a slower, more scenic route, but it is frequently plagued by stop-and-go traffic, extending travel times considerably. SR 520 provides a shorter route to the coast, but the limited healthcare options in that direction necessitate travel towards Melbourne or Orlando for specialized lung cancer care.

Public transportation options in Rockledge are limited. Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT) operates a bus system, but its coverage is sparse, and routes are infrequent. Route 1, for example, travels along US Highway 1, offering a potential link to some medical facilities. However, the schedule is not designed for efficient medical appointments, and the frequency of service is often insufficient for timely access to treatment. ADA-accessible buses are available, but scheduling a ride requires advance notice. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. Their availability in Rockledge is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs. For individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the financial burden of frequent ride-sharing trips can be substantial. The reliability of these services also varies, and delays can occur, making it difficult to maintain a strict appointment schedule.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide or Firstat Nursing Services, specialize in providing transportation for patients with medical needs. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, they often come at a premium price, and availability can be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments. The cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those with limited financial resources.

The geography of Rockledge influences healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Melbourne and Orlando. The distance to these facilities necessitates reliable transportation, making access to specialized lung cancer care a challenge for some residents. The presence of local urgent care facilities and primary care physicians is beneficial, but they may not offer the specialized services required for advanced lung cancer treatment.

For those considering moving to Rockledge, the transportation landscape should be a critical factor in their decision-making process. While the area offers a pleasant lifestyle, the limitations in healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited financial resources, should be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and ensure they have a plan for accessing medical care.

The Lung Cancer Score for Rockledge, Florida, highlights the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the expense of medical transport all contribute to the complexity of navigating the healthcare system. Addressing these challenges through improved public transportation, expanded ride-sharing subsidies for medical appointments, and increased access to affordable medical transport services is essential to improving the quality of life and survival rates for those battling lung cancer in Rockledge. The availability of efficient, affordable, and reliable transportation is not just a convenience; it is a matter of life and death.