33527, Dover, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 33527, Dover, Florida is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.66 percent of residents in 33527 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Florida Baptist Hospital with a distance of 5.34 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dover, Florida (ZIP Code 33527)

For individuals considering a move to Dover, Florida (ZIP Code 33527), or currently residing there, understanding healthcare access, specifically concerning lung cancer treatment, is paramount. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape, a crucial factor in determining a "Lung Cancer Score," reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all of which significantly impact the quality of life for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

Dover, a charming community nestled in Hillsborough County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to the bustling city of Tampa. However, this juxtaposition presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The ability to quickly and reliably reach specialized medical facilities is a critical determinant of patient outcomes, making the "Lung Cancer Score" a vital tool for assessing the viability of this location for individuals with, or at risk of, lung cancer.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Dover is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The ease of navigating the roadways significantly influences the Lung Cancer Score. From Dover, the primary routes to major healthcare facilities in the Tampa Bay area involve a combination of highways and arterial roads.

For instance, reaching the Moffitt Cancer Center, a nationally recognized cancer treatment facility, typically involves traveling west on State Road 60 (SR-60). This major east-west thoroughfare provides relatively direct access, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend the journey. Expect drive times to Moffitt to range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic volume and the specific location within Dover.

Alternatively, the Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital, a crucial resource for veterans, can be accessed via Interstate 4 (I-4), a major north-south highway. Depending on the specific Dover location, access to I-4 can be achieved via SR-60 or County Road 579 (CR-579). Drive times to the VA hospital also fluctuate between 30 to 60 minutes, influenced by traffic conditions on I-4.

Other healthcare facilities, such as AdventHealth Tampa, also require navigating SR-60 or I-4. The journey to these facilities typically falls within the 30- to 45-minute range, again dependent on traffic. The Lung Cancer Score must factor in the potential for delays, particularly during rush hour, as these can impact the timeliness of appointments and treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Dover are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals relying on this mode of transportation. The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides bus services, but routes within Dover and to major healthcare facilities are infrequent and often involve multiple transfers.

Route 30, for example, connects Dover to Tampa, but the frequency of service is limited, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving, potentially exceeding 1.5 to 2 hours to reach facilities like Moffitt Cancer Center. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment and experiencing fatigue or other side effects.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. HART strives to provide accessible services, but the overall reliance on public transit for healthcare access in Dover significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score. The lack of readily available and efficient public transportation presents a substantial barrier for those without access to a personal vehicle or ride-sharing services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who do not drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Dover can be variable, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost.

While ride-sharing provides a degree of flexibility, the Lung Cancer Score must account for the financial burden and the potential for delays due to driver availability. Patients may need to schedule rides in advance, and the reliability of these services can vary.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Transit and other local providers operate in the Tampa Bay area, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, further impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 33527 reflects the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. The score considers the following key factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average time required to reach major cancer treatment facilities, considering traffic congestion.
* **Public Transit:** The frequency, accessibility, and travel time of HART bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability, cost, and potential for delays associated with Uber and Lyft.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of specialized medical transportation services.

The score also takes into account the proximity to pharmacies, diagnostic centers, and other essential healthcare services. The overall assessment provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking lung cancer treatment in Dover.

**Moving to Dover: Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Dover, this Lung Cancer Score provides critical information. While Dover offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options, particularly public transit, must be carefully considered. Individuals with lung cancer, or those at high risk, should prioritize proximity to major roadways, such as SR-60 and I-4, to minimize drive times to healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, understanding the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is crucial. Planning for potential delays and incorporating these factors into the overall healthcare strategy is essential.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access in Dover, ensuring that individuals can receive timely and effective treatment. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a critical component of successful lung cancer care, and this assessment provides a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities in this specific ZIP code.