34681, Crystal Beach, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 34681, Crystal Beach, Florida is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

10.09 percent of residents in 34681 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth North Pinellas with a distance of 3.24 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 34681 (Crystal Beach, Florida)**

Crystal Beach, Florida, a charming coastal community nestled in Pinellas County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but assessing its suitability for residents, particularly those facing health challenges like lung cancer, necessitates a thorough examination of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 34681, evaluates the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical services, ultimately informing a “Lung Cancer Score” reflecting the practicality of accessing specialized care.

The primary concern for lung cancer patients is timely access to oncologists, radiation therapy, and other vital treatments. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can significantly impact survival rates and quality of life. Therefore, this assessment prioritizes the proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering various **transportation** modes.

**Driving Distances and Roadways:**

The most common method of **transportation** in Crystal Beach is by personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfare connecting Crystal Beach to the broader Tampa Bay area is US-19. This heavily trafficked highway, while offering direct access to several medical facilities, can experience significant congestion, especially during peak hours. Heading south on US-19, residents can reach Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater, approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including radiation oncology and surgical services.

Further south on US-19, reaching the HCA Florida Trinity Hospital in Trinity, typically takes around 30-40 minutes. This facility also provides cancer care services, though the commute time can be a significant factor for patients undergoing frequent treatments. Other routes include utilizing alternate roads like Alternate US-19, which can sometimes offer a less congested path, though it may add to the overall travel time. The availability of parking at these facilities is also a crucial consideration, as limited parking can exacerbate the stress of medical appointments.

North of Crystal Beach, accessing healthcare facilities becomes less convenient. The drive times to major hospitals in areas like Spring Hill or Weeki Wachee, while offering additional healthcare options, can exceed an hour, making them less practical for routine appointments or emergencies. The condition of the roads, including potential potholes or construction, can also impact travel times and the comfort of patients.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** in Pinellas County is provided by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA). While PSTA offers bus routes throughout the county, their coverage in Crystal Beach is limited. The primary route serving the area is likely Route 61, which runs along US-19. This route can connect residents to transfer points where they can access other routes, including those serving Clearwater and St. Petersburg.

However, relying solely on public **transportation** presents several challenges for lung cancer patients. Bus schedules may not align with appointment times, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

PSTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is crucial for patients who may have mobility issues due to their illness or treatment. However, the availability of accessible routes to and from medical facilities from Crystal Beach is a critical factor in assessing the viability of public **transportation**.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public **transportation**. These services provide on-demand rides to and from medical appointments, eliminating the need for patients to drive or rely on family members. The availability of these services in Crystal Beach is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another valuable option. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and CareRide specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, helping patients navigate the complexities of medical appointments. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public **transportation**.

**Healthcare Facility Analysis:**

The proximity and quality of healthcare facilities near Crystal Beach are paramount. Morton Plant Hospital, with its comprehensive cancer center, is a primary destination. Its proximity (20-30 minutes) makes it a favorable option. HCA Florida Trinity Hospital, while further away, provides another layer of care. Smaller clinics and specialist offices in the Clearwater area offer additional options, but their accessibility depends on their location and the **transportation** options available.

The availability of specialized cancer care, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology, is crucial. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care, can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients.

**Lung Cancer Score Calculation:**

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Crystal Beach (ZIP code 34681) is derived from a weighted average of several factors:

* **Driving Time to Major Cancer Centers:** (Weight: 40%) This considers the average drive time to Morton Plant Hospital and HCA Florida Trinity Hospital, factoring in traffic conditions. Shorter drive times receive higher scores.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** (Weight: 20%) This evaluates the frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of PSTA bus routes to and from medical facilities.
* **Ride-Share Availability and Cost:** (Weight: 15%) This assesses the availability of Uber and Lyft services and the potential cost implications, including surge pricing.
* **Medical Transport Services:** (Weight: 15%) This considers the availability and cost of specialized medical **transportation** services.
* **Healthcare Facility Quality and Services:** (Weight: 10%) This evaluates the quality of cancer care at nearby facilities, including the availability of specialized services and support programs.

Each factor is assigned a numerical score, and the weighted average determines the overall “Lung Cancer Score.”

**Moving to Crystal Beach Considerations:**

For individuals considering **moving to Crystal Beach**, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions, the “Lung Cancer Score” provides valuable insights. The score reflects the ease with which they can access essential healthcare services. While Crystal Beach offers a desirable lifestyle, the distance to specialized cancer care and the reliance on **transportation** options like US-19 must be carefully considered. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services can mitigate some of the challenges, but the overall commute times and the limitations of public **transportation** remain important factors.

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the **transportation** landscape and **healthcare access** in Crystal Beach, informing the “Lung Cancer Score” and aiding individuals in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs and their potential move to this charming coastal community.