32180, Pierson, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32180, Pierson, Florida is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.13 percent of residents in 32180 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Deland with a distance of 15.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32180 (Pierson, Florida)

The serene, rural landscape of Pierson, Florida (ZIP Code 32180) offers a tranquil escape, attracting individuals and families seeking a slower pace of life. However, the very factors that draw people to this community – its remoteness and limited infrastructure – can present significant challenges regarding **healthcare access**. This write-up analyzes the overall health score for residents of 32180, focusing on the crucial element of **transportation** to medical facilities. This is particularly relevant for those **moving to Pierson**, who must consider the practicalities of accessing healthcare services.

The overall health score is a composite measure, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. It reflects the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching various healthcare providers, from primary care physicians to specialists and emergency services. This score is crucial because timely access to medical care directly impacts health outcomes and overall quality of life.

**Drive Times: The Dominant Factor**

The primary mode of **transportation** in Pierson is the personal vehicle. This reality significantly shapes the healthcare landscape. The closest immediate healthcare options, including primary care physicians and urgent care facilities, are located outside of Pierson, primarily in the neighboring cities of DeLand and Deltona.

To reach DeLand, residents typically travel via **State Road 40** (West) or **State Road 17** (South). The drive time to AdventHealth DeLand, a major hospital and healthcare provider, can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive time is generally manageable for routine appointments, but it can become critical during emergencies.

Deltona, located further south, offers additional healthcare options, including clinics and specialists. The drive to Deltona, again primarily via **State Road 40** and **Interstate 4 (I-4)**, typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes. This extended travel time adds to the stress and potential complications of seeking medical attention.

The more specialized healthcare facilities, such as those offering advanced cardiology, oncology, or specialized surgery, are often located in Daytona Beach or Orlando. Reaching these facilities requires a significantly longer commute. The drive to Daytona Beach, primarily via **State Road 40** and **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, can take up to an hour. Orlando, accessible via **I-4**, can take between one and two hours, depending on traffic, especially during peak hours.

These extended drive times, particularly for specialized care, significantly impact the overall health score. They can deter residents from seeking timely medical attention, leading to delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer health outcomes. The reliance on personal vehicles also poses challenges for individuals without access to a car, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Pierson and the surrounding areas are extremely limited, further impacting **healthcare access**. Volusia County offers a public bus service, Votran, but its routes and frequency are not conducive to easy access to medical facilities.

The nearest Votran routes servicing Pierson are infrequent, with limited stops within the town itself. These routes often require transfers, significantly increasing travel time. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while present, is not always guaranteed, and the limited service frequency can make it challenging for individuals with disabilities to schedule and attend appointments.

The reliance on public transit for healthcare access in 32180 is, therefore, not a viable option for most residents, especially those with mobility issues or urgent medical needs. The lack of robust public **transportation** further compounds the challenges of accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Supplementing, But Not Replacing**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services in Pierson can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in the evenings. Furthermore, the cost of ride-share services can be a significant barrier for some residents, especially for frequent appointments or long-distance travel to specialists.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like First Transit or CareRide, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, especially for those without insurance coverage. They are often limited in availability, particularly for short-notice appointments.

While ride-share and medical **transportation** services can supplement the existing options, they do not fully address the fundamental challenge of limited **healthcare access** in Pierson. They offer a solution for some, but they are not a reliable or affordable option for all residents.

**Overall Health Score: A Realistic Assessment**

Based on the analysis of drive times, public transit, and ride-share/medical transport options, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 32180 is moderate to low. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare, coupled with the limited availability of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-share and medical transport, creates significant challenges for residents.

The extended drive times to primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services contribute to the lower score. The lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** options further exacerbates the issue. This situation is particularly concerning for those with chronic illnesses, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, who may require frequent medical attention.

**Moving to Pierson** requires a careful consideration of the implications of this health score. Prospective residents should factor in the time and cost associated with accessing healthcare services, and consider the potential impact on their overall well-being. Planning ahead, establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, and exploring available **transportation** options are essential steps for ensuring adequate **healthcare access**.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

Improving the overall health score for Pierson requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in improved public **transportation** infrastructure, including increased route frequency and expanded service areas, is crucial. Exploring partnerships with ride-share companies to offer subsidized **transportation** for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, attracting more healthcare providers to the area, such as establishing a local clinic or expanding telehealth services, would significantly reduce the burden of travel. These measures would not only improve **healthcare access** for current residents but also make Pierson a more attractive and healthier community for those **moving to Pierson** in the future. The well-being of the community hinges on addressing these challenges.