32102, Astor, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32102, Astor, Florida is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.44 percent of residents in 32102 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Deland with a distance of 15.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32102 (Astor, Florida)

Astor, Florida, nestled along the scenic St. Johns River, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 32102, considering various transportation options and their impact on accessing medical services. The score will reflect the ease, efficiency, and affordability of reaching necessary healthcare facilities, ultimately impacting the overall well-being of those **moving to Astor**.

**Drive Time and Roadways:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for healthcare access in Astor is personal vehicle. The distance to medical facilities significantly influences the overall health score. The nearest hospital, AdventHealth Deland, is approximately 25 miles away, a drive that typically takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey primarily involves navigating County Road 40 (CR 40), a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near the intersection with US Highway 17/92.

Further south, the drive to AdventHealth Fish Memorial in Orange City, is roughly 30 miles and takes about an hour. This route also utilizes CR 40, then merges onto Interstate 4 (I-4), a major interstate highway known for its heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. Delays on I-4 can significantly extend travel times, impacting the ability to seek timely medical attention.

Specialized healthcare facilities, such as those offering advanced cardiology or oncology services, may necessitate travel to Orlando, approximately 60-70 miles away. This journey typically involves CR 40 to I-4, and can take between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The long travel times and potential for delays are a significant concern for residents, especially during emergencies.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Astor are extremely limited, presenting a major hurdle to healthcare access. There is no dedicated bus service that directly connects Astor to major healthcare facilities. The lack of a robust public **transportation** system severely restricts the ability of those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals, to reach medical appointments.

The nearest public transit options are located in DeLand and Orange City, but they do not directly serve Astor. The Volusia County Council on Aging offers limited transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, but these services often require advance booking and may have restrictions on the types of medical appointments they can accommodate. The absence of accessible and reliable public transit significantly lowers the overall health score for Astor residents. The lack of **ADA** (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant buses and stops further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Astor, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent. The availability of drivers is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in the early morning/late evening, when medical appointments may be scheduled. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. However, these services are typically expensive and may not be covered by all insurance plans. The availability of these services can also be limited, particularly in rural areas. The reliance on ride-share and medical transport services, while offering a solution, adds to the overall cost and complexity of accessing healthcare.

**Healthcare Access and Impact on Overall Health:**

The challenges in **transportation** significantly impact healthcare access for Astor residents. The long travel times to medical facilities, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or expensive ride-sharing services can lead to delayed medical care, missed appointments, and reduced access to preventative services. This can result in poorer health outcomes, increased healthcare costs, and a diminished quality of life.

The lack of readily available healthcare access also affects the ability of residents to manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialized treatments become more difficult to obtain, potentially leading to complications and hospitalizations. The overall health score for Astor reflects these challenges, highlighting the need for improved **healthcare access**.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score for Astor residents, several measures are needed. Investing in a dedicated public **transportation** system that connects Astor to major healthcare facilities is essential. This could involve expanding existing bus routes, establishing a dial-a-ride service, or partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments.

Encouraging the development of telehealth services, such as virtual doctor visits and remote patient monitoring, can help reduce the need for travel. Expanding the availability of local healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and specialists, can also improve access to care.

Supporting initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles, such as exercise programs and nutrition education, can help prevent chronic diseases and reduce the need for medical care. Educating residents about available resources, such as financial assistance programs for medical expenses and transportation subsidies, can also improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 32102, Astor, Florida, is negatively impacted by the challenges in **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The long drive times, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or expensive ride-sharing services create significant barriers to accessing timely and affordable medical care. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public transit, telehealth services, and local healthcare providers is crucial to improving the overall health and well-being of those **moving to Astor** and its existing residents. The ability to readily access healthcare is a fundamental right, and ensuring that Astor residents have this right is essential for a healthy and thriving community.