33572, Apollo Beach, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 33572, Apollo Beach, Florida is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.06 percent of residents in 33572 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida South Shore Hospital with a distance of 4.72 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Apollo Beach (ZIP Code 33572)

Considering a move to the sun-drenched shores of Apollo Beach, Florida, a haven of waterfront living? As you envision your future, it’s crucial to consider the practicalities, especially when it comes to healthcare access. This Lung Cancer Score analysis focuses on transportation options for residents of ZIP Code 33572, specifically concerning access to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment facilities. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, allowing potential residents to assess the ease with which they can navigate the healthcare landscape. This is particularly pertinent given the potential need for frequent appointments and treatments, a reality for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The primary concern is **transportation**. The ability to reach medical facilities quickly and reliably is paramount. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the accessibility of healthcare within and around Apollo Beach. We'll examine the specific routes, estimated travel times, and the availability of various transportation options, all essential factors in determining the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Apollo Beach's location, a peninsula jutting into Tampa Bay, influences transportation dynamics. The area is primarily served by roadways, with limited public transit options. This presents both advantages and disadvantages. The relatively low population density translates to less traffic congestion in some areas, but the reliance on personal vehicles can be a burden for those without one or those unable to drive.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The most common mode of **transportation** for Apollo Beach residents is the personal vehicle. Access to major healthcare facilities in the Tampa Bay area relies on a network of highways and roads. The primary artery is Interstate 75 (I-75), which provides a direct route north to Tampa and south towards Sarasota. The commute time to major hospitals varies depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours.

For instance, driving to Moffitt Cancer Center, a leading cancer treatment facility in Tampa, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes via I-75. This assumes moderate traffic. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to an hour or more. Similarly, accessing Tampa General Hospital (TGH), another major hospital in Tampa, involves a similar drive time, usually via I-75 and the Crosstown Expressway. The Crosstown Expressway (SR 618) offers a faster route but is a toll road, adding an additional cost to the journey.

Other important routes include US Highway 41, which runs parallel to I-75 and provides an alternative route to Tampa. While US 41 can be less congested than the interstate, it also has more traffic lights and slower speed limits, potentially increasing travel time. Local roads like Big Bend Road and Apollo Beach Boulevard provide access to local medical offices and urgent care facilities, offering quicker access for routine check-ups and minor ailments.

The drive to Brandon Regional Hospital, located east of Apollo Beach, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via Big Bend Road and Bloomingdale Avenue. This hospital offers a range of medical services, including oncology, providing a closer option for some residents. The drive times underscore the importance of considering traffic patterns when planning medical appointments, particularly for those undergoing cancer treatment, where timeliness is critical.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Apollo Beach are limited. Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) operates bus routes in the Tampa Bay area, but service in Apollo Beach is sparse. The primary bus route serving the area is Route 39, which connects Apollo Beach to downtown Tampa. However, the route operates on a limited schedule, with infrequent service, especially during evenings and weekends.

The lack of frequent service and the extended travel times make HART an impractical option for many residents, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments. The bus ride to Moffitt Cancer Center, for example, would likely involve multiple transfers and a travel time exceeding two hours. While HART buses are ADA-accessible, offering ramps and other features for passengers with disabilities, the overall lack of service frequency significantly impacts the viability of public transit for healthcare access.

For individuals without access to a car or unable to drive, the limited public transit options present a significant challenge. This underscores the importance of considering alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible **transportation** alternative. These services are readily available in Apollo Beach, providing on-demand rides to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent trips. The cost of a ride to Moffitt Cancer Center, for example, could range from $40 to $60, depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like FirstLight Home Care or CarePatrol, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service, assisting with mobility and providing support during the journey. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they offer a higher level of personalized care and are often covered by insurance for eligible patients.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides a valuable safety net for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle. These options enhance **healthcare access** for residents of Apollo Beach.

**The Lung Cancer Score: Considerations for Apollo Beach**

The Lung Cancer Score for Apollo Beach reflects a mixed picture. The primary advantage is the proximity to major medical facilities in the Tampa Bay area. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The commute times, particularly during peak hours, can be a significant factor, especially for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but the associated costs must be factored into the equation. The overall score suggests that while healthcare is accessible, residents must carefully consider their **transportation** needs and plan accordingly. For those **moving to Apollo Beach**, a thorough assessment of their ability to navigate the **healthcare access** landscape is essential. This includes evaluating their access to a personal vehicle, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder that while Apollo Beach offers a desirable lifestyle, the practicalities of healthcare access must be carefully considered.