33755, Clearwater, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 33755, Clearwater, Florida is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.30 percent of residents in 33755 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Plant Hospital with a distance of 2.31 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clearwater, FL (ZIP Code 33755)

The pursuit of optimal healthcare, especially when facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, demands a clear understanding of accessibility. For residents of Clearwater, Florida, specifically within ZIP Code 33755, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical assessment tool. This score isn’t a numerical value but a comprehensive evaluation of the *transportation* landscape and its impact on *healthcare access*, a crucial factor for anyone *moving to Clearwater* and seeking quality cancer care. The score considers the time, cost, and convenience of reaching key medical facilities, providing a practical guide for patients and their families.

The primary challenge for residents in 33755 lies in the dispersed nature of healthcare providers. While the area boasts a solid medical infrastructure, the concentration of specialists and treatment centers isn't uniform. This necessitates careful consideration of *transportation* options, making the Lung Cancer Score a vital resource.

**Driving the Distance: A Highway to Hope**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the cornerstone of *transportation*. The Lung Cancer Score begins with an analysis of drive times to prominent cancer care facilities. Morton Plant Hospital, a major player in the area, sits within a reasonable driving distance for many 33755 residents. Accessing it often involves navigating the bustling Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard (State Road 60), a major east-west artery. Drive times, assuming moderate traffic, typically range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code.

Further afield, the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa presents a more significant challenge. This renowned facility, offering cutting-edge treatments, is a desirable destination for many lung cancer patients. The journey to Moffitt involves traversing the Bayside Bridge (State Road 686) and then utilizing the interstate system, primarily Interstate 275. Drive times can vary drastically, from 30 minutes to over an hour during peak traffic hours. This variability underscores the importance of planning and considering alternative routes, particularly during rush hour.

Other hospitals, such as Mease Countryside Hospital, offer specialized services. Reaching this hospital often involves navigating US-19, a heavily trafficked north-south corridor. Drive times are generally shorter, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. The Lung Cancer Score factors in these drive times, accounting for potential delays due to traffic congestion, which can significantly impact a patient's well-being and appointment adherence.

**Public Transit: A Network of Support**

For those without personal vehicles, or seeking an alternative, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) offers a network of bus routes. The Lung Cancer Score meticulously evaluates the viability of public *transportation* for accessing cancer care. Route 18, running along Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard, provides direct access to Morton Plant Hospital. Route 19, traversing US-19, offers access to various medical facilities.

However, the system has limitations. Travel times on public *transportation* are generally longer than driving, often requiring transfers. The Lung Cancer Score accounts for these extended travel times, which can be particularly taxing for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is also a crucial factor. PSTA strives to provide accessible services, but the Lung Cancer Score verifies the accessibility of specific routes and stops near medical facilities, ensuring patients with mobility challenges can access the care they need.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another avenue for *transportation*. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the availability and cost of these services within 33755, comparing them to other *transportation* options. Ride-sharing provides a convenient door-to-door service, especially useful for patients who may be experiencing fatigue or other side effects of treatment. However, the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, specializing in non-emergency medical *transportation*, offer a more tailored approach. Companies like FirstLight Home Care and Senior Helpers provide services that can transport patients to and from medical appointments. The Lung Cancer Score investigates the availability, cost, and range of services offered by these providers within the 33755 area. These services often cater to specific needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or assistance with mobility.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

The Lung Cancer Score is not static; it's a dynamic assessment influenced by several factors. The time of day significantly impacts drive times and the availability of ride-sharing services. Traffic patterns, weather conditions, and the patient's physical condition all play a role. The score also considers the patient's financial resources, as the cost of *transportation* can be a barrier to *healthcare access*.

The score also evaluates the proximity of pharmacies and other support services, such as home healthcare agencies. Access to these resources is essential for managing treatment and recovery. The Lung Cancer Score provides an integrated view, considering all aspects of *transportation* and support services.

**The Impact on Moving to Clearwater**

For individuals *moving to Clearwater*, the Lung Cancer Score provides crucial information. It helps potential residents understand the *transportation* landscape and its impact on *healthcare access*. This is particularly important for those with a history of cancer or those seeking to relocate near specialized medical facilities. The score allows prospective residents to make informed decisions, considering the practicality of accessing care based on their chosen location within 33755.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road Ahead**

The Lung Cancer Score for 33755 is more than just a checklist; it's a roadmap. It empowers patients and their families to navigate the complexities of *transportation* and *healthcare access* in Clearwater. By understanding the nuances of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical *transportation*, individuals can make informed choices, ensuring they can receive the best possible care. This detailed assessment is invaluable for anyone *moving to Clearwater* and seeking to prioritize their health and well-being in the face of a lung cancer diagnosis. The score promotes informed decision-making, enabling individuals to focus on their treatment and recovery, with the confidence of knowing they can reach the care they need.