32207, Jacksonville, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32207, Jacksonville, Florida is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.84 percent of residents in 32207 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Health Medical Center - Jacksonville with a distance of 1.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32207

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to essential services, and paramount among these is healthcare. This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' for residents of Jacksonville's 32207 ZIP code, focusing specifically on the ease and efficiency of *transportation* to medical facilities. Factors considered include drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for residents seeking to maintain their well-being and for those *moving to Jacksonville* and assessing neighborhood suitability.

The 32207 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Lackawanna and Fairfield, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding *healthcare access*. Its location, relatively close to downtown Jacksonville, offers some advantages, but the specific realities of *transportation* within and around the area must be carefully considered. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the existing infrastructure and its impact on the overall health of the community.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Driving remains the primary mode of *transportation* for many residents. The efficiency of this mode is heavily influenced by traffic patterns and the condition of the roadways. Several major arteries serve the 32207 area, including Interstate 95 (I-95), which provides north-south access. Residents can quickly access hospitals and clinics to the north or south, depending on their needs. However, rush hour can significantly impact travel times, adding considerable delays to what might otherwise be a short trip.

The primary east-west connector is US-1 (Philips Highway), a busy thoroughfare with numerous businesses and traffic signals. The drive time to healthcare facilities east or west of 32207 via US-1 can be variable, often dependent on the time of day. Other important roads include Kings Road, a vital east-west route, and Main Street, which offers direct access to downtown and its associated medical resources. These local roads are critical for reaching smaller clinics and doctor's offices within the surrounding neighborhoods.

The average drive time to the nearest emergency room, a critical indicator of *healthcare access*, is a crucial metric. Depending on the specific location within 32207 and the time of day, the drive to a major hospital like UF Health Jacksonville (downtown) or Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside can range from 10 to 30 minutes. This variability highlights the importance of factoring in traffic when planning medical appointments or responding to emergencies.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public *transportation* options, including bus routes, within the 32207 area. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a more affordable alternative to driving or ride-sharing. However, the efficiency of public transit in this area is a complex issue.

Route 10, a frequent service route, provides a north-south connection along Main Street, offering access to downtown and several medical facilities. Route 14, which travels along Kings Road, provides east-west access, connecting to various healthcare providers. Route 1, which travels along Philips Highway, provides another north-south option. The frequency of these routes varies, with peak-hour service offering more frequent departures.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor for many residents. The JTA is committed to providing accessible *transportation* services, with all buses equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the public transit system can be a challenge, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. The routes may require transfers, increasing travel time and potentially adding to the stress of a medical appointment.

The overall impact of public transit on *healthcare access* is mixed. While it provides an affordable option for some, the longer travel times and potential for delays can be a significant barrier, especially for those with urgent medical needs. The JTA is constantly working to improve its services, but the current system presents limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving and public transit. These services are readily available in the 32207 area, providing on-demand *transportation* to healthcare facilities. The convenience of ride-sharing is undeniable, but the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing also depends on the time of day and the demand. During peak hours or in areas with lower driver density, wait times can be longer, potentially delaying access to healthcare. While ride-sharing offers a convenient option, it’s not a guaranteed solution for all residents.

Specialized medical *transportation* services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transportation. Several companies operate in Jacksonville, including First Coast Medical Transportation and AMED Transportation. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing but provide essential support for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs.

These specialized services are vital for ensuring that all residents, regardless of their physical condition, have access to healthcare. However, their availability and cost are important considerations when assessing overall *healthcare access*.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

The 'Overall Health Score' for *healthcare access* in 32207 is moderately positive. While the area benefits from its proximity to downtown and its associated medical resources, several factors impact the ease and efficiency of *transportation*. Drive times can be impacted by traffic, public transit offers a more affordable but potentially time-consuming option, and ride-sharing provides a convenient but potentially costly solution.

The availability of specialized medical *transportation* services is a positive factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations have access to care. The overall score is also influenced by the potential for delays in reaching healthcare facilities, particularly during peak hours.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

1. **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Encourage the JTA to increase the frequency of bus routes, especially during peak hours, and to expand service to areas with limited access.
2. **Promote Ride-Sharing Subsidies:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized *transportation* for residents with low incomes or limited mobility.
3. **Enhance Road Infrastructure:** Advocate for improvements to roadways, including traffic signal optimization and road widening projects, to reduce congestion and improve drive times.
4. **Increase Awareness of Medical Transport Services:** Promote awareness of specialized medical *transportation* services and their availability within the community.
5. **Support Telehealth Initiatives:** Encourage the expansion of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine appointments.

By addressing these areas, the community can enhance *healthcare access* and improve the overall health and well-being of 32207 residents. This analysis provides a foundation for informed decision-making for those *moving to Jacksonville* and for residents seeking to navigate the healthcare system effectively.