33756, Clearwater, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 33756, Clearwater, Florida is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.90 percent of residents in 33756 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Plant Hospital with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clearwater (ZIP Code 33756)

The sun-drenched shores of Clearwater, Florida, beckon, promising a life of leisure and breathtaking sunsets. But for those considering a move to ZIP code 33756, a critical factor demands consideration: **healthcare access**, particularly concerning a serious illness like lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the practicalities of **transportation** to vital medical resources, offering insights for informed decision-making.

This score isn't a medical diagnosis, but a reflection of the ease or difficulty in reaching facilities specializing in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. We'll explore the nuances of getting from various points within 33756 to key healthcare providers, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative **transportation** services. This analysis aims to illuminate the realities of **healthcare access** for potential residents.

The primary healthcare hubs for lung cancer care in the Clearwater area include Morton Plant Hospital, Mease Countryside Hospital, and the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. These facilities offer comprehensive services, from early detection to advanced treatment modalities. The ease of getting to these centers will heavily influence the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Driving the Distance:**

The backbone of **transportation** in 33756 is undoubtedly the automobile. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, especially during peak hours. From the heart of 33756, access to the major arteries is generally good.

Reaching Morton Plant Hospital, a prominent healthcare provider, typically involves navigating US-19, a major north-south thoroughfare. Travel time can range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey to Mease Countryside Hospital, located further north, also utilizes US-19, with drive times extending to 20-30 minutes.

The commute to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa presents a greater challenge. The primary route utilizes the Bayside Bridge, connecting to the Gandy Bridge and eventually I-275. This journey can easily take 45 minutes to an hour, and even longer during rush hour. The I-275 corridor is notorious for congestion, potentially impacting timely **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

For those without personal vehicles, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) provides public **transportation** options. The PSTA operates several bus routes serving 33756. However, the routes are often circuitous, and direct connections to major hospitals can be limited.

Route 18, for example, travels along US-19, offering a potential link to Morton Plant Hospital. Route 61 travels along Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard, offering another possible connection, though transfers might be necessary.

Accessibility is a crucial consideration. PSTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. The extended travel times and the need for transfers can significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score."

Reaching Moffitt Cancer Center via public transit is particularly challenging. The journey would likely involve multiple bus transfers and could take several hours. This underscores the importance of considering alternative **transportation** options for those relying on public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide an on-demand **transportation** alternative. These services offer door-to-door service, potentially simplifying the journey to healthcare facilities. However, costs can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide a specialized option. These services are designed to assist patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey. They can offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

While these services can enhance **healthcare access**, they often require advance booking and may not be readily available at all times. The cost of these services can also be a significant consideration.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" – A Preliminary Assessment:**

Considering the factors above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 33756 is moderate. While driving times to local hospitals are generally manageable, the commute to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa presents a significant challenge. Public transit options are available but can be time-consuming and may require multiple transfers. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer alternatives, but they come with potential cost and availability constraints.

For individuals considering **moving to Clearwater** with a history of, or a heightened risk of, lung cancer, a thorough assessment of their individual needs is crucial. Factors such as mobility, financial resources, and the availability of a support network should be carefully considered.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a starting point, not a definitive judgment. It highlights the importance of understanding the **transportation** landscape and the potential impact on **healthcare access**. Prospective residents should proactively research specific healthcare providers, assess their **transportation** needs, and explore all available options to ensure they can readily access the care they require.

This analysis underscores the importance of careful planning. The ease of access to quality healthcare is paramount. Understanding the practicalities of getting to appointments, especially in a situation as serious as lung cancer, is a vital component of making an informed decision about **moving to Clearwater**.