34669, Hudson, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 34669, Hudson, Florida is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.50 percent of residents in 34669 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Bayonet Point Hospital with a distance of 3.82 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hudson, Florida (ZIP Code 34669)

The sun-drenched expanse of Hudson, Florida, offers a compelling draw for those seeking a tranquil life. Yet, beneath the surface of retirement communities and coastal breezes lies a critical consideration: **healthcare access**, particularly for serious conditions like lung cancer. This analysis delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available to residents of ZIP Code 34669, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the ease and efficiency of reaching crucial medical facilities. This is vital information for anyone **moving to Hudson**, ensuring they can readily access potentially life-saving treatment.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a single number but a multifaceted assessment, considering drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. It acknowledges that timely access to specialists, diagnostic imaging, and treatment centers is paramount in the fight against this devastating disease.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The efficiency of this option directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Several hospitals and cancer centers serve the wider Tampa Bay area, but the distances vary significantly from Hudson.

The closest major hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, located at 14000 Fivay Rd, Hudson, FL 34667. This is often the first stop for initial diagnosis and stabilization. Reaching Bayonet Point from most locations within 34669 is relatively straightforward, typically requiring a drive of less than 15 minutes. The primary route involves navigating **US-19**, a bustling thoroughfare that can experience congestion during peak hours.

For more specialized treatment, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients often need to travel further. The Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, a nationally recognized cancer center, is a common destination. The drive to Moffitt, located at 12902 USF Magnolia Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, involves a journey of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The route typically utilizes **US-19** south to the **Veterans Expressway (SR 589)**, then east to the **Fletcher Avenue** exit. This journey can be stressful for patients undergoing treatment, emphasizing the need for reliable and comfortable **transportation**.

Another option is AdventHealth Carrollwood, located at 7171 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33614. This facility is approximately a 40-50 minute drive, relying on **US-19** south and **SR 580** east.

These drive times, while manageable, highlight the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for delays due to traffic. The Lung Cancer Score reflects this reality, acknowledging the impact of travel time on patient well-being and the importance of planning for potential complications.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit in Hudson and the surrounding areas is a less robust option. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) and the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provide limited service in the area.

The PSTA operates several bus routes that serve parts of Pasco County, including Hudson. However, direct routes to major cancer centers are scarce. Patients might need to utilize multiple buses, leading to lengthy travel times and increased physical strain.

For example, a patient might take a PSTA bus along **US-19** to a transfer point, then connect to another bus to reach a hospital. This process can easily exceed two hours, making it a challenging option for those undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the limitations of public transit, recognizing its limited accessibility and potential for delays.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. PSTA buses are generally equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall efficiency of the system remain significant concerns.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible **transportation** alternative. These services are readily available in Hudson, providing on-demand rides to medical appointments. However, the cost of frequent rides can be a significant financial burden, especially for patients facing ongoing treatment. The Lung Cancer Score accounts for the affordability factor.

Medical **transportation** services specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and MedRide offer door-to-door service, often with trained medical personnel. These services are particularly valuable for patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing, adding to the financial strain. The Lung Cancer Score acknowledges the benefits of medical **transportation** but also considers the cost factor.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 34669 is not a simple numerical value. It's a composite assessment that considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Hospital:** The shorter the drive time, the higher the score.
* **Drive Time to Specialized Cancer Centers:** The shorter the drive time, the higher the score.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability of direct and efficient public transit routes to medical facilities improves the score.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport Availability:** The presence of reliable and affordable ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services enhances the score.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The financial burden of **transportation** options impacts the score.

Based on these factors, the Lung Cancer Score for Hudson, Florida (34669) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point offers a positive starting point, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** create challenges.

For individuals **moving to Hudson**, a thorough evaluation of their **transportation** needs and the availability of support services is essential. Planning for potential delays, considering the financial implications of **transportation**, and exploring all available options are crucial steps in ensuring access to timely and effective care. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder that while the promise of a tranquil life in Hudson is appealing, careful consideration of **healthcare access** is paramount.