32046, Hilliard, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32046, Hilliard, Florida is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.29 percent of residents in 32046 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center - Nassau with a distance of 28.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32046 (Hilliard, Florida)

This report provides an overall health score assessment for residents of ZIP Code 32046, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access as it relates to transportation. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is paramount to maintaining well-being, especially for those considering moving to Hilliard. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

The health score considers several factors. Primarily, it evaluates the proximity of essential healthcare services, including primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, urgent care centers, and pharmacies. Secondly, it analyzes the available transportation options, weighing their reliability, affordability, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Finally, it considers the impact of these factors on the overall health and well-being of residents, recognizing that limited healthcare access can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer health outcomes, and increased stress.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries serving Hilliard and connecting it to surrounding areas are U.S. Route 1 (US-1) and State Road 200 (SR-200). These roadways are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities located in Jacksonville, Florida, and other nearby towns. The drive times to these facilities can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and the specific location of the healthcare provider.

For residents seeking primary care, a short drive might be possible within Hilliard itself, although the availability of local providers can fluctuate. Urgent care facilities are also available within a reasonable driving distance, often accessible via US-1. However, for specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, residents will likely need to travel to Jacksonville.

The drive to Jacksonville, approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic, involves navigating US-1 and potentially Interstate 95 (I-95). Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times, increasing the stress and inconvenience associated with healthcare appointments. Additionally, the condition of these roadways, including potential construction zones, can further impact travel times and create unexpected delays.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in and around Hilliard are limited. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) does not directly serve Hilliard with fixed-route bus services. This absence presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for residents who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

While the JTA does offer a paratransit service, Connexion, designed to assist individuals with disabilities, its availability is limited. Connexion requires advance booking and is subject to eligibility requirements, making it less convenient than a readily available fixed-route bus system. The lack of accessible public transportation options poses a particular challenge for elderly residents, individuals with mobility impairments, and those with low incomes, who may struggle to afford or access alternative transportation services.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area and can provide a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific service provider. Some medical transport providers in the area include First Coast Medical Transportation, and MedStar Transportation, but their coverage areas and service offerings may vary.

**Impact on Overall Health and Well-being:**

The limited transportation options in Hilliard, particularly the absence of robust public transit, can significantly impact the overall health and well-being of residents. The challenges associated with accessing healthcare can lead to delayed medical care, missed appointments, and poorer health outcomes.

For individuals with chronic conditions, regular medical appointments are essential for managing their health. The difficulty of traveling to these appointments can create additional stress and anxiety, potentially exacerbating their medical conditions. Furthermore, the lack of readily available transportation can isolate individuals, limiting their social interactions and access to community resources.

The cost of transportation, whether through ride-sharing services, medical transportation, or the expense of maintaining a personal vehicle, can also place a financial burden on residents, particularly those with low incomes. This financial strain can further impact their ability to access healthcare and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 32046, several strategies are recommended. Firstly, exploring the feasibility of extending the JTA’s fixed-route bus service to Hilliard would significantly enhance healthcare access. This would provide a more affordable and accessible transportation option for a wider range of residents.

Secondly, encouraging the development of more healthcare providers within Hilliard would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for medical care. This could involve incentivizing the establishment of primary care clinics, specialist offices, and pharmacies within the community.

Thirdly, promoting the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can help bridge the gap in healthcare access by allowing residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations that do not require a physical examination.

Finally, increasing awareness of available transportation resources, such as ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers, can help residents make informed decisions about their transportation options. Providing information on financial assistance programs that can help cover the cost of transportation can also improve healthcare access for low-income residents.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 32046 is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options available for accessing healthcare. While ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers offer alternatives, their cost and availability can be significant barriers. Addressing the transportation challenges through the expansion of public transit, the development of local healthcare providers, and the promotion of telehealth services is crucial for improving the health and well-being of residents in Hilliard. Moving to Hilliard requires careful consideration of these factors to ensure that individuals have adequate access to the healthcare they need.