33028, Pembroke Pines, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 33028, Pembroke Pines, Florida is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.32 percent of residents in 33028 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital West with a distance of 2.07 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 33028 (Pembroke Pines)

The sun-drenched city of Pembroke Pines, nestled in the heart of Broward County, Florida, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly when considering the complexities of a potential lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 33028, delves into the crucial element of **transportation**, assessing **healthcare access** for individuals facing this serious illness. For those **moving to Pembroke Pines**, understanding these nuances is paramount. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of navigating the healthcare system in this vibrant community.

The cornerstone of healthcare accessibility is often the ability to reach medical facilities efficiently. In 33028, this translates to understanding the road network. Major arteries like Pines Boulevard, a bustling east-west thoroughfare, and University Drive, a north-south corridor, are vital. The Florida's Turnpike, a toll road, offers a swift, albeit potentially costly, option for longer journeys. Interstate 75, a major north-south highway, provides another fast route, especially for reaching facilities in neighboring cities.

Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic. Rush hour, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can dramatically increase travel times. A routine trip to a hospital just a few miles away might double during peak congestion. The Memorial Hospital West, located just west of 33028, is a crucial healthcare provider. Reaching it via Pines Boulevard can take anywhere from 10 to 25 minutes, contingent on traffic. The Cleveland Clinic Weston, a highly regarded facility, is further west, requiring a drive of approximately 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the route and traffic conditions.

Public transit, while available, presents its own set of challenges. Broward County Transit (BCT) operates a network of buses, offering a more affordable, albeit slower, alternative. Route 7, running along Pines Boulevard, and Route 28, traversing University Drive, are key routes for residents in 33028. These routes connect to other bus lines and the Broward Central Terminal, offering broader access to the county's healthcare facilities.

However, the frequency of buses, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited. Travel times are considerably longer than driving, potentially adding significant stress for patients. Furthermore, the availability of fully accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features for individuals with mobility impairments, is essential. BCT strives to provide ADA-compliant services, yet navigating the system requires careful planning and consideration of individual needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient, if often more expensive, alternative to both driving and public transit. These services are readily available in 33028, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost, posing a financial burden for some patients. The reliability of these services is generally good, but occasional delays or cancellations can occur, necessitating careful scheduling and a backup plan.

Medical transport services cater specifically to patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services, often provided by private companies, offer transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, with trained personnel to assist patients. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and several smaller, local providers operate in the area. While these services offer a vital lifeline, they can be costly and require advance booking, making them less ideal for urgent situations.

The availability of healthcare facilities within 33028 itself is a significant factor. Numerous primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers are located within the ZIP code, providing convenient access to initial consultations and routine checkups. However, for specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries related to lung cancer, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals or cancer centers located outside the immediate area.

The Memorial Cancer Institute, with its comprehensive cancer care services, including advanced diagnostics and treatment options, is a primary destination for many lung cancer patients. The distance to this facility, and the ease of accessing it, are critical factors. The proximity of the Cleveland Clinic Weston, with its renowned cancer center, also enhances healthcare access for residents of 33028.

For individuals considering **moving to Pembroke Pines**, a thorough assessment of **healthcare access** is crucial. This includes evaluating the proximity of healthcare facilities, the ease of **transportation**, and the availability of support services. The ability to navigate the local **transportation** network is paramount, especially for those facing the challenges of a serious illness like lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 33028, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. While the availability of multiple **transportation** options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides a degree of flexibility, the reliance on these options can be challenging. Traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall complexity of accessing healthcare.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of factors: proximity to healthcare facilities, efficient **transportation** options, and readily available support services. For those **moving to Pembroke Pines**, a proactive approach to understanding these factors is essential. Researching the location of healthcare providers, exploring **transportation** alternatives, and understanding the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and transportation assistance programs, can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" in 33028 is a dynamic assessment, influenced by individual circumstances, the severity of the illness, and the availability of resources. By understanding the complexities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, residents can navigate the system more effectively and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.