32228, Jacksonville, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32228, Jacksonville, Florida is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

97.78 percent of residents in 32228 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center Beaches with a distance of 8.13 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32228

Understanding healthcare access is crucial when considering a move, especially in a sprawling metropolitan area like Jacksonville, Florida. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 32228, provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of how residents can reach vital healthcare services. The score, though not a precise numerical value, reflects the relative accessibility challenges and advantages within this specific geographic area.

ZIP code 32228, encompassing a portion of Jacksonville's Southside, presents a mixed bag of healthcare access challenges and opportunities. The area’s suburban sprawl, while offering residential comfort, influences how residents navigate the city for medical appointments. Proximity to major thoroughfares, however, provides some advantages.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary determinant of healthcare accessibility for most 32228 residents is driving. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates an examination of typical drive times to various healthcare providers. Traffic congestion, a notorious factor in Jacksonville, significantly impacts these times, particularly during peak hours.

Accessing major medical centers, such as Baptist Medical Center South, located just outside the ZIP code, involves navigating the busy lanes of **Interstate 95 (I-95)**. During rush hour, the commute can easily extend beyond the typical 15-20 minutes, potentially delaying critical care. Other healthcare facilities, including urgent care centers and specialist offices, are scattered throughout the area, often requiring travel on **Butler Boulevard (SR-202)**, **Baymeadows Road**, and **Southside Boulevard**. These roads, while providing direct routes, are also prone to congestion.

Drive times to these facilities vary depending on the specific location within 32228. Residents closer to I-95 generally enjoy quicker access to larger medical centers. Conversely, those residing further inland may face longer commutes, particularly if relying on surface streets. The quality of **transportation** infrastructure, including road conditions and traffic light synchronization, further influences the overall drive time experience.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public transit options for residents of 32228. However, the coverage is limited, and the frequency of service may not be ideal for all healthcare needs. The primary bus routes serving the area include routes 10, 18, and 23.

Route 10, running along Baymeadows Road, offers a connection to the Southside area and downtown Jacksonville, where several hospitals and specialty clinics are located. Route 18, traveling along Southside Boulevard, provides access to various commercial areas and connects with other bus routes. Route 23, serving the western edge of the ZIP code, offers another connection to the larger Jacksonville **transportation** network.

While these routes offer some level of **healthcare access**, the limitations are apparent. Bus schedules may not align with appointment times, and the travel time, including waiting and transfer times, can be significantly longer than driving. The JTA offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit for medical appointments remain significant considerations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** solution for residents of 32228. These services provide on-demand rides, potentially reducing the reliance on personal vehicles or public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services is generally good in the Jacksonville area, including 32228. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can inflate costs, making it less accessible for some individuals.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, also play a role in healthcare access. Companies like First Coast Medical Transport and American Medical Response (AMR) provide specialized **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel. These services are often covered by insurance, but may require pre-authorization or have limitations on coverage.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. However, the need to schedule these services in advance and the potential for delays can present challenges.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Jacksonville:**

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in 32228 is moderate. While the area benefits from proximity to major roadways and a network of medical facilities, several factors influence accessibility. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges for some residents.

Individuals considering **moving to Jacksonville** and residing in 32228 should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations may face greater challenges in accessing medical care. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides alternative solutions, but at a potential cost.

The density of medical facilities within and around 32228 is a positive aspect. The presence of urgent care centers, specialist offices, and major hospitals within a reasonable driving distance enhances the overall **healthcare access**. However, traffic congestion and the need for careful planning are essential considerations.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for 32228 reflects a mixed landscape. While the area offers reasonable access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of alternative **transportation** options necessitate careful consideration. Prospective residents should research the location of medical facilities, evaluate their **transportation** needs, and consider the potential impact of traffic congestion. This detailed assessment provides a valuable framework for understanding the realities of accessing healthcare within this specific ZIP code.