32147, Hollister, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32147, Hollister, Florida is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.05 percent of residents in 32147 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Putnam Hospital with a distance of 6.68 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32147 (Hollister, Florida)

This report analyzes the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 32147, focusing on the critical aspect of *healthcare access* as influenced by *transportation* options. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals *moving to Hollister* and seeking to understand the ease of reaching medical services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the accessibility landscape.

The overall health score for a community is intricately linked to its ability to provide timely and convenient access to medical care. Residents of 32147, a predominantly rural area, face unique challenges in this regard. Distance, limited public transit, and the absence of readily available ride-sharing services significantly impact the ability to receive necessary medical attention. This report aims to quantify these challenges and provide a nuanced understanding of the accessibility landscape.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 32147 is personal vehicles. This necessitates a thorough examination of drive times to various healthcare facilities. The major thoroughfare serving the area is US-301, a critical artery connecting Hollister to neighboring towns and cities. Traveling north on US-301 provides access to facilities in Starke, while heading south leads to Palatka.

Drive times to these locations vary considerably depending on traffic and the specific destination. Reaching the closest urgent care facility in Starke, for example, could take approximately 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions. However, the lack of alternate routes can lead to delays if there is an accident or heavy traffic on US-301. This is especially true during peak commuting hours or when inclement weather reduces visibility.

The road network within 32147 itself consists primarily of smaller county roads, which may be poorly maintained in certain areas. These roads can add significant travel time and pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring emergency medical assistance. This lack of alternative routes emphasizes the importance of reliable vehicle maintenance and preparedness for unexpected delays.

Accessing larger hospitals and specialized medical centers in Gainesville, approximately 45-60 minutes away, presents a greater challenge. This journey typically involves navigating US-301 and then transitioning onto I-75, a major interstate highway. The longer travel time increases the risk of delays and places additional strain on individuals seeking routine or emergency care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in 32147 are extremely limited, significantly impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Putnam County Transit system (PCT) provides some service, but its routes and schedules may not adequately address the needs of all residents. The system's routes are often infrequent, and the service area may not extend to all parts of the ZIP code.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles and features is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While PCT strives to provide accessible services, the availability of these features may be limited depending on the route and the specific vehicle. This can create significant barriers to healthcare access for those with mobility challenges.

The lack of robust public transportation options highlights the need for alternative solutions, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This underscores the importance of exploring other *transportation* options, such as ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in 32147 can be inconsistent. Demand for these services may be low, leading to longer wait times and potential difficulties in securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. This can be a significant impediment to accessing healthcare, particularly for urgent or time-sensitive medical needs.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often come with higher costs and require advance booking, which may not be suitable for all healthcare needs.

The availability of medical transport services can be a lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or have limited mobility. However, the cost and scheduling requirements can create barriers to access, particularly for those with limited financial resources or urgent medical needs.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for 32147 is significantly impacted by the challenges in *healthcare access*. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, creates significant hurdles for residents seeking medical care. The lack of readily available alternative *transportation* options can lead to delayed care, missed appointments, and increased stress levels.

The distance to major medical centers in Gainesville, while offering comprehensive care, presents a significant *transportation* burden. The lack of readily available and affordable *transportation* options can exacerbate existing health disparities and negatively impact the overall well-being of the community.

For individuals *moving to Hollister*, a thorough assessment of *transportation* needs is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully consider their ability to drive, the availability of reliable vehicles, and the potential need for alternative *transportation* solutions. Planning for medical appointments, including scheduling and *transportation*, should be a priority.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving the overall health score for 32147 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit options, including increasing route frequency and extending service areas, is essential. Investing in ADA-accessible vehicles and features is critical to ensure inclusivity.

Promoting ride-sharing services and encouraging their consistent availability is also important. This could involve partnerships with local organizations or incentives to attract drivers to the area.

Finally, increasing awareness of medical transport services and providing financial assistance for those in need can significantly improve *healthcare access*.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 32147 is negatively impacted by the challenges associated with accessing healthcare. Addressing these challenges through improved *transportation* options, including expanded public transit, reliable ride-sharing, and accessible medical transport, is essential to improving the health and well-being of the community. For those *moving to Hollister*, careful consideration of *transportation* needs is paramount to ensuring timely and convenient access to medical care.