32040, Glen Saint Mary, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32040, Glen Saint Mary, Florida is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.06 percent of residents in 32040 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ed Fraser Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32040 (Glen Saint Mary, Florida)

Understanding the health landscape of a community requires more than just looking at its healthcare facilities; it necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of those facilities. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 32040, focusing on the critical aspect of **transportation** to and from medical appointments. For those **moving to Glen Saint Mary**, or already residing there, this write-up provides a crucial understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access**.

ZIP Code 32040, encompassing the town of Glen Saint Mary, is characterized by a rural setting. The primary mode of **transportation** is personal vehicles. This geographical reality significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for individuals without reliable access to a car, the elderly, or those with disabilities. The health score is therefore, impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most direct route to significant healthcare providers in the region involves navigating the roadways. The primary artery connecting Glen Saint Mary to larger cities is **US-90**. Driving east on US-90 leads to Lake City, approximately a 45-minute drive, where patients can access major hospitals like the Lake City Medical Center. Traveling west on US-90 offers access to Jacksonville, a drive of approximately one hour, and home to a wider array of specialized medical facilities.

Secondary roads like **County Road 229** and **County Road 23A** offer alternative routes, though these may be less direct and often involve slower speeds, especially during peak traffic hours. The condition of these roads, while generally well-maintained, can be affected by weather events, potentially impacting travel times and patient access. The distance and travel times are key components of the overall health score.

**Public Transit:**

Public transit options within ZIP Code 32040 are extremely limited. The primary public transit system serving the broader region is the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA). However, JTA services primarily operate within the city limits of Jacksonville and do not extend into Glen Saint Mary. This absence of public transit significantly diminishes the health score, especially for individuals who cannot drive.

While there may be some limited demand-response services operated by local agencies, these are typically restricted to specific populations, such as seniors or individuals with disabilities. Information regarding these services is often not readily available, adding to the complexity of **healthcare access**. The lack of accessible **transportation** is a significant barrier.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for those with limited incomes.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by specialized companies, are available. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking. Medical **transportation** is a vital component for those with mobility limitations.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public **transportation** and healthcare facilities. However, the lack of robust public transit in Glen Saint Mary and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for individuals with disabilities. Ensuring that healthcare facilities are ADA-compliant is essential, but the ability to reach those facilities remains a critical hurdle.

**Healthcare Facility Proximity:**

While the focus is on **transportation**, it's crucial to acknowledge the healthcare facilities themselves. Glen Saint Mary has limited immediate access to comprehensive healthcare services. Residents often rely on facilities in Lake City or Jacksonville. The distance to these facilities, combined with the **transportation** challenges, significantly impacts the overall health score. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services within a reasonable travel distance is a key factor.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 32040 is negatively impacted by several factors. The lack of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to major healthcare facilities all contribute to a lower score. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services further complicate the situation.

The score is also affected by the demographics of the community. The elderly population, those with disabilities, and individuals with limited incomes face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. The availability of support services, such as community health centers or mobile clinics, can help mitigate some of these challenges, but these resources are often limited in rural areas.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving the overall health score requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in public transit options, even limited routes, could significantly improve **healthcare access**. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized **transportation** for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Expanding medical **transportation** services and ensuring their affordability is crucial.

Encouraging the development of telehealth services can also help bridge the **transportation** gap, allowing patients to receive care remotely. Promoting community health initiatives and providing resources for chronic disease management can improve health outcomes, even with limited **transportation** options.

**Conclusion:**

For those **moving to Glen Saint Mary**, understanding the challenges of **healthcare access** is paramount. The overall health score for ZIP Code 32040 is significantly impacted by **transportation** limitations. While the community offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, residents must navigate a complex landscape to receive necessary medical care. By addressing the **transportation** barriers and supporting community health initiatives, the overall health score can be improved, ensuring that residents of Glen Saint Mary have access to the healthcare they need. The integration of these factors is essential to a comprehensive understanding of the health landscape.