32218, Jacksonville, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32218, Jacksonville, Florida is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.97 percent of residents in 32218 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shands Jacksonville with a distance of 8.52 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32218

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of Jacksonville's 32218 ZIP code, focusing specifically on the accessibility of healthcare facilities. It analyzes the various transportation options available, considering drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, a critical factor when considering moving to Jacksonville or evaluating the overall health of a community.

The score considers several key factors: the proximity of healthcare providers, the efficiency and reliability of transportation, and the availability of options catering to diverse needs, including those with disabilities. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current landscape, recognizing that transportation and healthcare access are dynamic and subject to change.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The 32218 ZIP code, primarily encompassing the Southside area of Jacksonville, presents a varied landscape for healthcare access. Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation. The primary roadways impacting healthcare accessibility include Interstate 95 (I-95), US-1 (Philips Highway), and Southside Boulevard. Access to healthcare facilities is generally considered good, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

For residents in the northern portion of 32218, accessing facilities along Philips Highway, such as Memorial Hospital or Baptist South, is typically straightforward. Travel times vary depending on the specific location within the ZIP code, but a 15-20 minute drive is common during off-peak hours.

Residents in the southern areas may find themselves traveling further, potentially navigating I-95 to reach facilities in the Baymeadows or Mandarin areas. This can add significant time to the commute, particularly if there are accidents or heavy traffic. The drive to Baptist South from the southernmost parts of 32218 can extend to 30 minutes or more during rush hour.

The condition of the roadways also plays a role. While I-95 is generally well-maintained, construction projects can cause delays. Local roads, such as Southside Boulevard, can experience potholes and other issues that may affect travel times and vehicle safety. The accessibility of healthcare is therefore impacted by these factors, which underscores the importance of proactive transportation planning.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public transit services within the 32218 ZIP code. However, the availability and frequency of bus routes are a significant factor impacting healthcare access. While the JTA offers routes that serve the area, the coverage is not as extensive as in more centrally located areas.

Several bus routes, including the 10, 14, and 102, provide service within the 32218 area. Route 10, for example, travels along Philips Highway, offering direct access to several medical facilities. Route 14 provides service along Southside Boulevard, also connecting to medical offices and clinics. Route 102 serves the Baymeadows area, connecting to medical facilities in that area.

The frequency of these routes is a crucial consideration. While some routes operate with reasonable frequency during peak hours, service can be significantly reduced during evenings and weekends. This can make it challenging for residents who rely on public transit to access healthcare appointments outside of standard business hours.

The JTA is committed to providing accessible transportation. All JTA buses are equipped with features for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating areas. The JTA also offers paratransit services, such as Connexion, for individuals who are unable to use the fixed-route bus system. However, eligibility requirements for Connexion and the need to book rides in advance can present barriers to healthcare access for some individuals. The overall effectiveness of public transit in the 32218 ZIP code for healthcare access is therefore moderate, with improvements needed in frequency and coverage.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for residents of 32218. These services provide on-demand transportation, which can be particularly convenient for those who do not own a car or who need to travel outside of public transit hours.

Ride-sharing availability in Jacksonville is generally good, and wait times are typically reasonable. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, especially for those who require frequent trips to healthcare facilities. The cost of a ride to a medical appointment can quickly add up, impacting the overall affordability of healthcare.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Jacksonville area, including First Coast Medical Transport and American Medical Response (AMR). These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist passengers.

Medical transport services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical conditions that make it difficult to travel independently. However, these services can be expensive, and insurance coverage may vary. The availability of medical transport services is a positive factor for healthcare access, but cost and insurance coverage can be significant considerations.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed, the overall health score for healthcare access in the 32218 ZIP code is moderate. While the area benefits from good road infrastructure and the availability of ride-sharing services, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport present challenges.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is generally good, with several hospitals, clinics, and medical offices located within a reasonable driving distance. However, traffic congestion and the limited frequency of public transit routes can impact access, particularly during peak hours and for those who do not own a car.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of JTA bus routes, especially during evenings and weekends. Consider implementing new routes to serve areas currently underserved by public transit.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Subsidies:** Explore the possibility of providing subsidies or partnerships with ride-sharing services to reduce the cost of transportation for low-income residents and those with chronic health conditions.
* **Expand Medical Transport Options:** Increase the availability of affordable medical transport services, potentially through partnerships with healthcare providers or community organizations.
* **Improve Roadway Infrastructure:** Continue to invest in maintaining and improving roadways to reduce traffic congestion and ensure safe travel.
* **Healthcare Provider Clustering:** Encourage healthcare providers to cluster in areas easily accessible by public transportation to facilitate patient access.

By addressing these recommendations, the community can improve healthcare access for all residents of the 32218 ZIP code, enhancing their overall health and well-being. This is a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Jacksonville. The goal is to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.