32003, Fleming Island, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32003, Fleming Island, Florida is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.75 percent of residents in 32003 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center - Nassau with a distance of 41.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32003 (Fleming Island, Florida)

Fleming Island, nestled in Clay County, Florida, offers a desirable suburban lifestyle. Yet, prospective residents considering moving to Fleming Island must carefully evaluate healthcare access, a critical factor in overall well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the commute to healthcare facilities from ZIP Code 32003, encompassing transportation options, drive times, and accessibility.

The score considers the variety and reliability of transportation methods, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the ease of reaching them. A higher score indicates better healthcare access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. This write-up will delve into the specifics of navigating the area, providing a comprehensive understanding for informed decision-making.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery serving Fleming Island is County Road 220 (CR-220), a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by traffic volume, particularly during peak hours. Residents can expect a 15- to 30-minute drive to Orange Park Medical Center, the closest major hospital, located in Orange Park. This drive typically involves navigating CR-220 east, then turning onto Kingsley Avenue.

Further afield, driving to Baptist Medical Center South, located in Jacksonville, can take 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route utilizes CR-220, then merges onto US-17 south, and finally onto Old St. Augustine Road. Alternatively, accessing St. Vincent’s Medical Center Southside in Jacksonville involves CR-220, US-17, and I-295. These longer commutes necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

During rush hour, congestion on CR-220 can be substantial, adding considerable time to these commutes. Accidents or road closures on CR-220, US-17, or I-295 can further exacerbate delays, emphasizing the importance of real-time traffic monitoring and alternative route planning.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Clay County are limited. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides some bus service, but its coverage in Fleming Island is sparse. The primary route serving the area is Route 10, which runs along Blanding Boulevard, a major thoroughfare west of Fleming Island. This route does not directly service Fleming Island, making it impractical for most healthcare commutes.

Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on JTA buses is generally good, with features like ramps and priority seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make public transportation a less viable option for many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or needing frequent healthcare appointments. The lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score."

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Fleming Island. These services offer a convenient, albeit potentially costly, alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or without access to a personal vehicle. Ride-sharing provides door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate parking or rely on public transit schedules.

Medical transportation services, such as Firstat Nursing Services, also operate in the area. These specialized services cater to individuals with medical needs, providing transportation to and from medical appointments. They often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. While medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for those with specific needs, they can be expensive and require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for commute to healthcare in ZIP Code 32003 is moderate. While residents have access to a range of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles is high. The limited public transportation options and potential for traffic congestion can pose challenges, particularly for those without personal transportation or during peak travel times.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides alternative solutions, but they come with associated costs. The score is further impacted by the lack of readily accessible public transit options. This necessitates careful consideration for individuals who are moving to Fleming Island, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions or those who anticipate needing frequent healthcare services.

**Recommendations:**

Prospective residents should factor in commute times to healthcare facilities when making their housing decisions. Assessing the proximity of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services is crucial. Planning for potential traffic delays and considering the cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation are also essential.

Individuals with mobility limitations or those who rely on public transportation should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare facilities from Fleming Island. Exploring the availability of in-home healthcare services or telemedicine options can also enhance healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" can be improved by advocating for increased public transportation options, particularly routes that directly serve Fleming Island and connect to major healthcare facilities. Supporting initiatives that promote traffic management and reduce congestion on CR-220 and other roadways can also enhance healthcare access.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic measure that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. By understanding the current transportation options and potential challenges, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and advocate for improvements that enhance healthcare access for the entire community. The ease of transportation directly affects the ability to receive timely medical care, impacting the overall well-being of residents moving to Fleming Island.