33579, Riverview, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 33579, Riverview, Florida is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.45 percent of residents in 33579 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida South Shore Hospital with a distance of 6.42 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Riverview (ZIP Code 33579)

Considering a move to Riverview, Florida (ZIP Code 33579)? This burgeoning community offers a blend of suburban tranquility and burgeoning development. However, understanding healthcare access, especially for a serious condition like lung cancer, is crucial. This "Lung Cancer Score" assesses the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare within the context of transportation options available to residents of 33579. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture of how easily you can reach potentially life-saving treatments.

The primary concern for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialized medical care. This includes consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and access to advanced imaging and treatment facilities. The following analysis examines the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access in Riverview.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads to Recovery**

Riverview's location provides relatively easy access to Tampa and surrounding areas via major roadways. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. This is a critical factor when considering healthcare appointments, which often require punctuality.

The primary artery for reaching Tampa's medical centers is **I-75**. Heading north on I-75 from Riverview, you can reach the major hospitals in Tampa, including Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and Moffitt Cancer Center. During off-peak hours, the drive to TGH is typically around 20-30 minutes, while Moffitt, located further north, might take 30-40 minutes. However, during rush hour, these drive times can easily double, potentially adding significant stress and anxiety for patients and their families.

Alternatively, **US-301** provides a more direct route to some medical facilities, particularly those located along the eastern side of Tampa. While US-301 can be less congested than I-75, it often has more stoplights, which can still impact travel time. The drive to these facilities is generally comparable to I-75, but the experience can be less predictable.

**SR-60**, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to hospitals and medical centers in Brandon and Plant City. While these facilities may offer some specialized services, they may not have the comprehensive lung cancer care available at TGH or Moffitt. The drive time to Brandon is typically around 15-20 minutes, while Plant City might take 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic.

For those living in the southern parts of Riverview, access to healthcare facilities in Sarasota may also be considered. This would involve driving south on I-75. This option, however, adds a significant commute, typically exceeding an hour, making it less practical for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option for Complex Care**

Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides public transportation in the Tampa Bay area, including Riverview. However, the availability and practicality of HART for lung cancer patients are limited. The routes serving Riverview are often infrequent, with limited service on weekends and evenings.

The primary routes serving Riverview include the **39** and **46**. These routes connect Riverview to downtown Tampa, where transfers to other routes are available. However, these routes primarily serve the US-301 and I-75 corridors, requiring transfers to reach hospitals located further west.

Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with mobility issues is a critical consideration. HART buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the long travel times, potential for multiple transfers, and limited service frequency make public transit a challenging option for many lung cancer patients, especially those undergoing treatment.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible transportation option than public transit. They provide on-demand transportation, which can be particularly helpful for appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, especially with frequent appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Riverview is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs. Patients should factor in these potential expenses when considering ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like **Medicaid Transportation** or **CareRide**, specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services can be a valuable resource, they typically require pre-booking and may have limited availability, especially for short-notice appointments.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Riverview (ZIP Code 33579) is not a simple numerical value but rather a composite assessment. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to major cancer centers (TGH, Moffitt) during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Feasibility:** The practicality of using HART for appointments, considering route frequency, travel time, and accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing Affordability:** The estimated cost of using ride-sharing services for frequent appointments.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** The availability and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Treatment Centers:** The distance to and availability of specialized lung cancer treatment facilities.

**Conclusion: Weighing Transportation and Healthcare Access**

Moving to Riverview offers many advantages, but prospective residents should carefully consider the implications of their transportation choices and how they impact healthcare access. While the area benefits from relatively easy access to major roadways, traffic congestion, and the limitations of public transit can pose challenges for lung cancer patients. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative solutions, but they come with associated costs and logistical considerations.

For individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk, a thorough evaluation of healthcare access is crucial. This "Lung Cancer Score" encourages a deeper understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, empowering informed decisions about moving to Riverview and ensuring the best possible care. Before moving, it is recommended to consult with healthcare providers and explore the specific transportation options that align with individual needs and treatment plans. This proactive approach will help ensure a smooth transition and facilitate timely access to the necessary medical care.