32059, Lee, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32059, Lee, Florida is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.58 percent of residents in 32059 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Lake City Hospital with a distance of 41.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32059

Welcome to the assessment of healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 32059, encompassing the vibrant community of Lee, Florida. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on various factors, including transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical services. Understanding these elements is crucial for residents, prospective homeowners, and anyone considering moving to Lee. The goal is to offer a clear picture of how easily residents can access essential healthcare, contributing to their overall well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access rests upon the ability to reach medical facilities. In Lee, this primarily involves personal vehicles, with the primary arteries being Interstate 10 (I-10) and US Highway 90. Navigating these roadways is typically straightforward, but traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can influence travel times. Rural areas often present challenges, and the absence of significant public transit options demands careful consideration.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Overall Health Score. For routine appointments and general medical needs, residents can access the Suwannee River Medical Center in Live Oak, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via US-90. This facility offers a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and specialized clinics. For more specialized treatments or consultations, residents might need to travel further afield.

Specialized care often necessitates journeys to larger cities like Gainesville or Lake City. Gainesville, home to the University of Florida Health Shands Hospital, is approximately a 1-hour 30-minute drive, primarily via I-10 and US-441. Lake City, with its VA Medical Center and other healthcare providers, is a shorter trip of around 30-45 minutes, primarily via I-75. These longer commutes highlight the importance of reliable transportation and the potential impact on healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Lee are limited. The Suwannee County Transit System provides some services within the county, but routes and schedules are infrequent. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, elderly residents, and individuals with disabilities. The absence of readily available public transportation is a notable factor affecting the Overall Health Score.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance of the Suwannee County Transit System is an important consideration. While the system strives to meet ADA requirements, the limited service area and frequency can pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The lack of accessible public transit further emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or widespread as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. While ride-sharing offers a potential solution for those without personal vehicles, the cost and reliability can be factors. This element contributes to the overall complexity of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, are another option. Companies like First Choice Medical Transport and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region. These services cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, costs and scheduling constraints can be barriers.

The availability of these services is crucial, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility. The reliance on these services underscores the importance of having a robust and accessible transportation network. This need is a critical aspect of the Overall Health Score.

The Overall Health Score also considers the availability of urgent care facilities and pharmacies within the community. While Suwannee River Medical Center offers emergency services, the presence of urgent care clinics provides a convenient option for less serious medical needs. Pharmacies are readily available in Live Oak and other nearby towns, ensuring access to medications.

The proximity of these essential services contributes to a higher Overall Health Score, as it reduces the time and effort required to address common health concerns. This accessibility is a positive factor for residents of Lee.

The Overall Health Score also reflects the potential impact of healthcare access on the community's economic well-being. Limited access to healthcare can lead to missed workdays, increased healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life. Conversely, a robust healthcare system, supported by accessible transportation options, can contribute to a healthier and more productive community.

This economic impact is a critical factor in assessing the Overall Health Score, as it affects the overall vitality of the community. It underlines the importance of investing in healthcare infrastructure and transportation solutions.

The Overall Health Score for ZIP Code 32059 is therefore a nuanced assessment. While the area offers a range of healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but costs and reliability remain factors.

Considering these elements, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 32059 is moderate. While residents have access to a range of medical services, the transportation infrastructure requires improvement to enhance accessibility, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The community could benefit from increased public transportation options, improved ride-sharing availability, and further investment in medical transport services.

For those moving to Lee, understanding these factors is vital. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, careful consideration of transportation needs and healthcare access is essential. Planning for transportation, whether through personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport, is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care.

The Overall Health Score is not a static metric; it can evolve with community initiatives and infrastructure improvements. Efforts to enhance public transportation, promote ride-sharing, and support medical transport services can significantly improve the healthcare access for all residents of Lee. This ongoing focus on healthcare access will contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.