32187, San Mateo, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32187, San Mateo, Florida is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.31 percent of residents in 32187 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Putnam Hospital with a distance of 7.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32187

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which residents can access medical services significantly impacts their health outcomes. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access within ZIP Code 32187, encompassing San Mateo, Florida, considering the various transportation options available. This assessment is particularly relevant for those considering moving to San Mateo, as it offers a snapshot of the practical realities of accessing medical care.

The score considers factors such as drive times, public transportation availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options. It provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities residents face when seeking healthcare within and beyond the immediate area. The goal is to offer a comprehensive picture to inform decision-making and highlight potential areas for improvement in healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary arteries serving San Mateo are State Road 100 and County Road 305. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical determinant of healthcare access, especially in emergencies. The nearest hospital, AdventHealth Palm Coast, is approximately 20 miles east, a drive that can take between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on SR-100. Further east, in Daytona Beach, the drive to Halifax Health Medical Center can take upwards of an hour, particularly during peak traffic.

Traveling west on SR-100 provides access to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in the towns of Bunnell and Crescent City. However, these facilities offer a more limited scope of services than the larger hospitals. County Road 305 provides a more direct route to the south, but it is a smaller road with less traffic capacity.

Traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour and on weekends, can significantly impact drive times, making it crucial to factor this into any assessment of healthcare accessibility. The road infrastructure in San Mateo, while adequate, may present challenges for those relying on private vehicles for healthcare transportation. The availability of well-maintained roads is a critical element of safe and efficient transportation.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 32187 are limited. The primary provider in the area is the Flagler County Public Transportation, which operates a demand-response service. This means that residents must schedule rides in advance, which can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare, especially for urgent needs.

The service does not have fixed routes within San Mateo, making it less convenient for those without access to a personal vehicle. While the system offers ADA-accessible vehicles, the scheduling requirements and potential wait times can be challenging. The lack of a robust public transportation network presents a significant challenge to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

The sparse public transportation offerings highlight the need for alternative modes of transportation for healthcare access. This is a key consideration for anyone moving to San Mateo, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or low-income.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Residents should factor in potential surge pricing and wait times when considering ride-sharing for healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, such as FirstCall Medical Transportation and CareRide, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. While these services can be a valuable resource, they can be costly, and availability may be limited.

The availability of ride-share and medical transport services adds another layer of complexity to the overall health score. While these options provide greater flexibility than public transportation, they come with their own set of challenges, including cost, availability, and the need for advance planning.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Considering all factors, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 32187 is moderate. While drive times to the nearest hospital are manageable, the limited public transportation options and the potential costs associated with ride-share and medical transport services present significant challenges for some residents.

The score is further impacted by the limited availability of specialized medical services within the immediate area, requiring residents to travel further for more complex care. The lack of readily accessible public transportation adds to the challenges, particularly for those who are elderly, disabled, or low-income.

To improve healthcare access, several recommendations are proposed. Expanding the public transportation network, including fixed routes and increased service frequency, would significantly improve healthcare access for many residents. Partnering with ride-share companies to offer subsidized transportation for healthcare appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, increasing the availability of medical transport services and exploring the feasibility of establishing a community health center within San Mateo would address the needs of the local population. These improvements would make it easier for residents to access the healthcare they need, improving their overall health outcomes and quality of life.

For individuals considering moving to San Mateo, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. While the area offers a pleasant environment, the limitations in healthcare access should be a key consideration. Planning for transportation needs, researching available healthcare providers, and understanding the costs associated with various transportation options are essential steps in ensuring access to quality healthcare.

The overall health score reflects the complex interplay of transportation and healthcare access. By addressing the identified challenges and implementing the recommended improvements, the community can create a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all residents. This is a crucial element of building a healthy and thriving community.