34987, Port Saint Lucie, Florida Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 34987, Port Saint Lucie, Florida is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.25 percent of residents in 34987 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Lucie Medical Center with a distance of 9.34 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 34987

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, can be a daunting one. In ZIP Code 34987, encompassing a significant portion of Port Saint Lucie, Florida, the accessibility of specialized care is a critical factor in determining patient outcomes. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape and healthcare access, crafting a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the ease, or difficulty, of reaching vital medical services. For anyone considering moving to Port Saint Lucie, this score provides crucial insights.

The foundation of any healthcare access analysis rests on transportation. In 34987, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The vastness of the area, coupled with limited public transit options, makes driving the default. Understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is, therefore, paramount.

The primary artery for north-south travel is Interstate 95 (I-95). This highway offers relatively swift access to hospitals and oncology centers, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. The Florida Turnpike, running parallel to I-95, offers an alternative route, albeit one with tolls. East-west travel relies heavily on roads like Crosstown Parkway, Prima Vista Boulevard, and St. Lucie West Boulevard. These roads are often subject to traffic lights and local congestion, adding to travel times.

For those residing in the northern reaches of 34987, accessing healthcare facilities in Fort Pierce might involve a drive of 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Residents in the southern areas of the zip code may find themselves closer to facilities in Port Saint Lucie, potentially reducing drive times to 15-20 minutes. However, these are estimates, and actual travel times can fluctuate considerably.

Public transportation, while present, offers a limited solution. The St. Lucie County Transit System operates bus routes within the area. Route 1, running along US-1, and Route 2, serving the St. Lucie West area, are among the most relevant. However, these routes are infrequent, and their coverage is geographically limited. ADA-accessible buses are available, offering a crucial service for those with mobility challenges. The lack of extensive routes and the infrequent service, however, present a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in 34987. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to operate a vehicle. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Care Ride specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

The availability of oncology services is a crucial factor in determining healthcare access for lung cancer patients. The Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital, located just outside of 34987, is a major healthcare provider in the area, offering comprehensive cancer care. The HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce also provides oncology services. However, travel times to these facilities, even with the use of I-95, can be a challenge.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 34987, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a degree of accessibility, but the potential for traffic congestion and the distances involved can be significant challenges. The limited public transit options, coupled with the cost and potential unreliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Port Saint Lucie, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or mobility limitations, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. The availability of specialized medical care, such as oncology services, is a critical factor to consider. The proximity to major hospitals and cancer centers, combined with the availability of reliable transportation, will significantly impact the quality of life for lung cancer patients.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 34987, when considering the transportation challenges and healthcare access limitations, would be moderate. While the presence of major hospitals and oncology centers is positive, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create significant barriers to healthcare access for many residents. The score highlights the need for improved public transit, increased affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation, and a greater emphasis on patient support services to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents of 34987.

Further research into the specific locations of oncology services, the availability of patient assistance programs for transportation costs, and the expansion of public transit routes would be beneficial in improving the "Lung Cancer Score" and enhancing healthcare access for those battling lung cancer in Port Saint Lucie. The future of healthcare access in 34987 hinges on addressing these transportation and accessibility challenges, making it a more welcoming and supportive community for all residents, especially those needing specialized care.