32113, Citra, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32113, Citra, Florida is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.94 percent of residents in 32113 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Villages Regional Hospital, The with a distance of 31.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Citra, Florida (ZIP Code 32113)

Citra, Florida, nestled in the heart of Marion County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering its residents' overall health. The ability to access healthcare, a critical determinant of wellbeing, is significantly influenced by the transportation infrastructure available. This write-up will delve into the specifics of commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 32113, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Citra, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" will be assessed across several key areas: accessibility, affordability, and convenience. Each area will be evaluated based on the options available within a reasonable radius, considering factors like travel time, cost, and the availability of services for individuals with disabilities. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare access landscape in Citra.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

For many residents of Citra, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The major roadways influencing healthcare access include US-441, the primary north-south artery, and State Road 318, providing east-west connectivity. Drive times to healthcare facilities in Ocala, the county seat, and other surrounding towns vary considerably depending on the destination and time of day.

Traveling south on US-441 offers the most direct route to Ocala, typically a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. This route provides access to a wide range of medical specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers. However, during peak hours, particularly morning and evening commutes, traffic congestion can significantly increase travel times. State Road 318, while offering an alternative route, can add another 10-15 minutes to the journey, especially when heading to facilities in the eastern part of Ocala.

Smaller roads, such as NW 110th Avenue and NW 170th Street, offer access to local medical offices and pharmacies, but these facilities are limited in scope. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and maintenance for residents of Citra. The lack of sidewalks and bike lanes on many of these roads further restricts alternative transportation options.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Marion County's public transportation system, known as "Marion Transit," offers limited services to residents of Citra. While the system does provide routes that connect Citra to Ocala, the frequency and coverage are significantly restricted. These routes, often utilizing buses with route numbers, such as Route 10 or Route 20, may only operate a few times a day, making them impractical for many healthcare appointments.

Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. Marion Transit is mandated to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that all buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and that drivers are trained to assist passengers with mobility challenges. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can still pose significant challenges for individuals with disabilities, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The lack of comprehensive public transit significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score" for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Reliance on public transit can lead to longer travel times, increased waiting periods, and potential difficulties in coordinating appointments.

**Ride-Share Services: A Growing but Inconsistent Solution**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas, including Ocala. However, their availability in Citra is less consistent. While ride-share services may be accessible, wait times can be significantly longer than in more urban areas. This can be a significant factor when needing urgent medical attention or adhering to strict appointment schedules.

The cost of ride-share services can also be a barrier, especially for those with limited financial resources. The fares can quickly accumulate, particularly for regular appointments or trips to specialized healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-share services can be unpredictable, potentially leading to missed appointments or delays in receiving care.

**Medical Transport Services: Specialized Assistance**

For individuals with significant mobility limitations or specific medical needs, medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline. Several companies, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and several local providers, offer ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services are equipped to transport patients to and from medical appointments, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers.

The availability of medical transport services in Citra is generally good, but costs can be substantial, especially for non-emergency transportation. Insurance coverage for NEMT services varies depending on the plan, and out-of-pocket expenses can be a significant burden. The coordination of medical transport services also requires advance planning and scheduling, which can be challenging for individuals with unpredictable health needs.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

Based on the factors discussed above, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in Citra, Florida (ZIP code 32113) is moderately impacted. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the inconsistency of ride-share services, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to challenges.

The "Accessibility" component is impacted by the drive times, which can be extended during peak hours. "Affordability" is affected by the costs of car ownership, ride-share fares, and potential out-of-pocket expenses for medical transport. "Convenience" is compromised by the limited public transit options, the potential for long wait times for ride-shares, and the need for advance planning for medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Citra, it is crucial to assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who are reliant on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges. The "Overall Health Score" highlights the importance of planning and preparedness when it comes to accessing healthcare in this rural Florida community. The ability to secure reliable transportation is paramount to maintaining good health and well-being in Citra.