32083, Raiford, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32083, Raiford, Florida is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.04 percent of residents in 32083 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake Butler Hospital with a distance of 6.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32083

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a crucial consideration, particularly when evaluating a move to a new area. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 32083, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities, analyzing drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transport solutions. This information is essential for anyone considering moving to Raiford, Florida, and understanding the practicalities of healthcare access.

The primary concern for residents of 32083 is the relative isolation of the area. Raiford is a small, rural community, and the availability of healthcare services within its immediate vicinity is limited. Therefore, the ability to travel to nearby towns and cities becomes paramount. This analysis examines the practicalities of reaching healthcare facilities, considering various transportation methods and their associated challenges.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in 32083 is personal vehicles. The road network, however, presents some challenges. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are US-301 and FL-16. US-301, a major north-south route, offers access to Gainesville to the south and Macclenny to the north. FL-16, running east-west, provides access to Starke and Keystone Heights.

Drive times are significantly influenced by traffic and the distance to healthcare facilities. The closest hospital, North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville, is approximately a 45-minute to an hour’s drive, depending on traffic conditions on US-301. Shorter trips to urgent care facilities in Starke, via FL-16, can be accomplished in about 15-20 minutes. These times are estimates and can vary based on the time of day and any unforeseen delays.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but rural roads can be susceptible to weather-related issues. Heavy rainfall can cause temporary flooding, and the potential for wildlife encounters on roadways exists, adding another layer of complexity to travel.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 32083 are limited. The region is not well-served by comprehensive public transit systems. The primary public transportation provider in the area is the Alachua County Regional Transit System (RTS), which primarily operates in Gainesville. However, RTS routes do not directly serve Raiford or offer frequent service to the area. This significantly restricts the healthcare access for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle or cannot drive.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. While RTS strives to provide accessible services, the limited route coverage and the need for transfers can present challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The lack of readily available public transit options in Raiford highlights the importance of considering alternative transportation solutions for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Raiford. Demand may be low, and wait times can be long, especially during off-peak hours or in the event of an emergency. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Choice Medical Transport and MedStar Ambulance provide non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services are designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, including those who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical requirements. However, these services come at a cost and need to be arranged in advance.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The overall health score for 32083 reflects the challenges associated with accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services create barriers to timely and convenient healthcare access. The distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for traffic delays further complicate the situation.

When considering a move to Raiford, prospective residents must carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation options. Individuals who are reliant on public transportation or have mobility limitations may find it challenging to access healthcare services. The availability of reliable transportation is a crucial factor in ensuring access to medical appointments, treatments, and emergency care.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 32083 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides alternative solutions, but these options may be less reliable or more expensive.

**Recommendations:**

Prospective residents of 32083 should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. It is essential to consider the potential travel times to healthcare facilities and the availability of alternative transportation options. Individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not have access to a personal vehicle should thoroughly research medical transport services and the availability of ride-sharing options.

For individuals considering moving to Raiford, it is crucial to understand the practicalities of healthcare access. Planning for transportation needs and exploring alternative solutions can help ensure that residents can receive the necessary medical care. This analysis serves as a starting point for evaluating healthcare access and making informed decisions about moving to 32083.