32084, Saint Augustine, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32084, Saint Augustine, Florida is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.42 percent of residents in 32084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Johns Radiology Associates Pa with a distance of 2.52 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32084**

Understanding healthcare access is paramount when considering a move, especially to a beautiful and historic location like Saint Augustine, Florida (ZIP Code 32084). This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for the area, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities via various transportation options. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive view for residents and potential newcomers.

The health score is not a static number but a complex assessment, influenced by multiple factors. It reflects the ease with which individuals can reach medical care, impacting their overall well-being and quality of life. A higher score suggests better access, while a lower score highlights potential challenges. This report aims to illuminate those challenges and opportunities within the 32084 ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 32084, as in most of America, is personal vehicle transportation. The area benefits from a well-maintained road network, but traffic patterns and distance significantly impact drive times.

Flagler Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the area, is a crucial destination for residents. From the heart of 32084, a drive to Flagler Hospital typically takes between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the specific location and time of day. This journey often involves navigating US-1, the main artery through Saint Augustine, and State Road A1A, offering scenic coastal routes.

During peak hours, especially weekday mornings and afternoons, traffic congestion on US-1 can extend drive times. Alternate routes, such as Old Moultrie Road and Kings Estate Road, provide some relief, but their capacity is limited. Residents should factor in these potential delays when planning medical appointments or dealing with emergencies.

Access to specialists and other healthcare providers may necessitate travel outside the immediate 32084 area. Jacksonville, approximately 45 minutes to an hour north, offers a wider range of specialized medical services. This journey typically involves I-95, a major interstate highway, and can be subject to significant delays during peak travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in 32084 presents a mixed picture. The St. Johns County Transportation System (SJC Trans) provides bus services, but their routes and frequency are limited, particularly for healthcare access.

The primary routes serving the area, such as Route 1 and Route 2, offer connections to key locations, including Flagler Hospital. However, service frequency is often hourly, and the routes may not directly serve all residential areas within the ZIP code. This limitation can make public transit impractical for many residents, especially those with mobility issues or urgent medical needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SJC Trans buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the system remain a challenge for individuals with mobility impairments.

For those relying on public transit, careful planning is essential. Residents should consult the SJC Trans website or app for route schedules and real-time updates. Factor in travel time, potential delays, and the need for transfers when scheduling medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. Their availability in 32084 is generally good, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies and ambulance services, cater to individuals with specific needs. These services are essential for patients who cannot drive themselves or use public transit due to medical conditions or disabilities.

Ambulance services are readily available in 32084 for emergency medical situations. However, the cost of ambulance transport can be substantial, and it is crucial to understand insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Private medical transport services offer a range of options, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. These services are often pre-booked and can provide door-to-door transportation, making healthcare access easier for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Saint Augustine**

When considering a move to Saint Augustine (32084), healthcare access is a critical factor. While the area offers a range of healthcare providers, transportation challenges can impact the ease with which residents can access care.

The availability of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the costs of ride-sharing and medical transport all influence the overall health score. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact of these factors on their healthcare access.

For those with chronic health conditions or mobility issues, proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of reliable transportation options are particularly important. Researching the location of healthcare providers, understanding the availability of public transit, and exploring ride-sharing or medical transport options are crucial steps in making an informed decision.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 32084 is influenced by several factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average time to reach Flagler Hospital and other healthcare providers.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, routes, and accessibility of SJC Trans bus services.
* **Ride-Sharing Costs and Availability:** The cost and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of ambulance and private medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Specialists:** The distance and transportation options for accessing specialized medical care in Jacksonville.

**Recommendations**

To improve healthcare access in 32084, several initiatives could be considered:

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of SJC Trans bus routes, particularly those serving healthcare facilities.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Explore partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services to offer discounted transportation options.
* **Expand Medical Transport Services:** Increase the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport services.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Address traffic congestion on US-1 and other key roads to reduce drive times.
* **Educate Residents:** Provide clear information about healthcare access options, including public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

**Conclusion**

The "Overall Health Score" for 32084 reflects a mixed landscape for healthcare access. While the area benefits from a well-maintained road network and the availability of ride-sharing services, limitations in public transit and the potential costs of transportation can pose challenges for some residents. Careful planning, awareness of available options, and proactive measures to improve transportation infrastructure can help ensure that all residents of 32084 have equitable access to the healthcare they need. When moving to Saint Augustine, thoroughly research transportation options, especially if healthcare access is a primary concern.