32065, Orange Park, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32065, Orange Park, Florida is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.12 percent of residents in 32065 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent's Clay County with a distance of 2.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in 32065

This report provides an overall health score assessment for individuals residing in ZIP Code 32065 (Orange Park, Florida), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services. We will delve into the intricacies of **transportation** options, evaluating drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport to determine the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Orange Park**, as healthcare access is a critical factor in overall well-being.

The health score is a composite measure, reflecting the relative ease of reaching various healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care facilities. We consider factors such as travel time, cost, convenience, and the availability of services for individuals with disabilities. The higher the score, the better the healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary roadways influencing healthcare access in 32065 are US-17 (Roosevelt Boulevard), Blanding Boulevard, and I-295. These arteries serve as vital links to medical facilities within and beyond the ZIP code. Drive times vary significantly depending on the destination, time of day, and traffic conditions. During peak hours, commutes can be considerably extended, particularly along Blanding Boulevard and US-17.

For instance, a trip from the heart of Orange Park to Orange Park Medical Center, located off Blanding Boulevard, typically takes 5-10 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this drive could easily double. Similarly, accessing Baptist Medical Center South, situated near I-295, involves a 15-20 minute drive, contingent upon traffic flow on I-295.

Specialists located in Jacksonville, such as those at the Mayo Clinic or UF Health Jacksonville, necessitate longer commutes. These trips, often requiring travel on I-295 and I-95, can range from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the specific location and traffic. The availability of ample parking at these facilities is also a consideration, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public transit services in the area, but its reach within 32065 is limited. Bus routes primarily operate along major thoroughfares, offering some connectivity to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, is often inadequate.

Route 10, which runs along Blanding Boulevard, is a crucial route for healthcare access, connecting to Orange Park Medical Center and other medical offices. Route 1, operating on US-17, also provides access to some healthcare providers. However, the reliance on these routes can be challenging for individuals living in areas further from the main roads.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor for public transit. JTA vehicles are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the need for transfers, the potential for long wait times, and the limited geographic coverage can still present significant barriers to healthcare access for some residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, eliminating the need for personal vehicles or reliance on public transit schedules. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, including those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. These services, such as First Responder Medical Transport and American Medical Response, offer a valuable resource for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. However, these services typically require prior arrangements and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or personal transportation.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 32065 is moderate. While the area benefits from the presence of Orange Park Medical Center and numerous medical offices, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges.

Drive times are generally manageable for local healthcare providers, but longer commutes are necessary for specialized care in Jacksonville. The availability of ride-sharing services offers a convenient alternative, but the cost can be prohibitive for some. Medical transport services provide essential support for individuals with specific needs, but these services require prior planning and can be expensive.

The score is also influenced by the availability of primary care physicians and specialists within the ZIP code. While Orange Park offers a reasonable selection of healthcare providers, the demand for services can sometimes lead to longer wait times for appointments.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Individuals considering **moving to Orange Park** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation options. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should factor in the challenges associated with accessing healthcare facilities.

For residents, exploring the availability of telehealth services can improve healthcare access. Telehealth can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments.

The JTA could enhance healthcare access by increasing the frequency and coverage of bus routes, especially during evenings and weekends. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve accessibility.

Further, the development of additional healthcare facilities within 32065 would enhance healthcare access. This would reduce drive times and alleviate the pressure on existing providers.

In conclusion, the health score reflects a community with reasonable healthcare access, but with room for improvement. Residents must carefully consider their individual needs and explore the available transportation and healthcare options to ensure they can receive the care they require. The continued development of healthcare infrastructure, combined with improved public transit and innovative transportation solutions, will be critical in enhancing the overall health score for 32065.