Lung Cancer Score

33809, Lakeland, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 33809, Lakeland, Florida

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 33809, Lakeland, Florida is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.27 percent of residents in 33809 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lakeland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.95 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 33809, Lakeland, Florida

Lung Cancer Score 27
People Score 22
Provider Score 65
Hospital Score 15
Travel Score 57

Closest Hospital - LAKELAND REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 33809 Lakeland Florida
No Cars 2.00 2.00 2.68
1 Car 19.13 21.77 22.58
2 Cars 40.05 44.32 44.13
3 or More Cars 38.82 31.92 30.62

Vehicular Access in 33809, Lakeland, Florida

Travel Score Review of 33809, Lakeland, Florida

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lakeland, FL (ZIP Code 33809)

Considering a move to Lakeland, Florida (ZIP Code 33809)? This assessment provides a "Lung Cancer Score" to help you evaluate healthcare access, specifically focusing on timely access to specialized care crucial for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This score considers transportation options, a critical component of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a serious illness. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the journey from your potential home to vital medical resources.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a formal medical evaluation. Instead, it is a composite assessment based on drive times, public transportation availability, and ride-sharing options to key healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer care within and around ZIP Code 33809. The score aims to provide a practical understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access.

Lakeland, a city experiencing rapid growth, offers a blend of suburban and urban environments. This diversity influences transportation options. The area is well-connected by major highways, but public transit is less developed than in larger metropolitan areas. This presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals needing frequent medical appointments.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Access**

The primary roadways influencing healthcare access in 33809 are Interstate 4 (I-4), the Polk Parkway (SR 570), and US Highway 98. I-4 is the major east-west artery, connecting Lakeland to Tampa (west) and Orlando (east). The Polk Parkway, a toll road, provides a more direct north-south route through the city, easing congestion on local roads. US 98 is a major north-south thoroughfare, offering access to various parts of Lakeland and beyond.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by traffic patterns. During peak hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM), congestion on I-4 can add considerable time to your commute. The Polk Parkway offers a faster alternative, but the toll fees must be factored into your transportation budget.

The primary healthcare providers in the area offering lung cancer services include Lakeland Regional Health (LRH) and AdventHealth. Accessing LRH, particularly the Cancer Center, from various points within 33809, requires careful planning. A drive from the southern part of the zip code, for example, might take approximately 15-20 minutes via US 98 during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this could easily stretch to 30-40 minutes.

AdventHealth, located in the northern part of Lakeland, offers another option. Reaching this facility from the southern end of 33809 involves navigating US 98 or utilizing the Polk Parkway, resulting in similar drive times as to LRH. The choice of facility often depends on insurance coverage, physician preferences, and specific treatment needs.

For specialized care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, you may need to travel to Tampa or Orlando. This necessitates longer drive times, potentially 45-60 minutes or more, depending on traffic. This factor significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as frequent trips for treatment or follow-up appointments can become a significant burden.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Lakeland is provided by Citrus Connection. While the network covers the city, it is limited in scope and frequency. Routes that serve the 33809 ZIP code primarily operate along major roadways like US 98 and Memorial Boulevard.

For individuals with lung cancer, relying on public transit can present several challenges. Routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, requiring transfers and longer travel times. The frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, making it difficult to attend appointments on time.

Citrus Connection offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the overall limitations of the system, including the potential for longer travel times and the need for transfers, can significantly impact healthcare access. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the challenges associated with relying solely on public transportation for medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Lakeland. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or using public transportation, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, particularly with frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who require assistance. Several NEMT providers operate in the Lakeland area, including Access Transportation and First Choice Medical Transportation.

Medical transportation services can be covered by some insurance plans, making them a more affordable option than ride-sharing. However, availability and scheduling can be a factor. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services as crucial elements of healthcare access.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for 33809 reflects a nuanced picture of healthcare access. While Lakeland offers a variety of healthcare facilities, transportation remains a key consideration. The score is influenced by drive times, the limitations of public transportation, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The score is not a static number. It should be interpreted in the context of individual needs and circumstances. For example, an individual with a reliable support system and access to a personal vehicle may have a more favorable experience than someone who relies solely on public transportation.

When moving to Lakeland, it is essential to carefully evaluate your transportation options and their impact on your ability to access timely and effective lung cancer care. Consider factors such as proximity to healthcare facilities, ease of access to major roadways, and the availability of alternative transportation services.

The Lung Cancer Score is a tool to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. It is crucial to research specific healthcare providers, understand your insurance coverage, and plan for potential transportation challenges. By considering all these factors, you can navigate the healthcare landscape in Lakeland and ensure access to the care you need.

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Health Scores Near 33809, Lakeland, Florida

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