32234, Jacksonville, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32234, Jacksonville, Florida is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.03 percent of residents in 32234 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ed Fraser Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.05 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32234

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, particularly in a sprawling metropolitan area like Jacksonville, Florida. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 32234, focusing on the ease of transportation to medical facilities. This score is derived from evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.

ZIP code 32234, a residential area in Jacksonville, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary thoroughfares, including Interstate 95 (I-95), Interstate 295 (I-295), and US-1 (Philips Highway), are vital arteries for movement. However, these roads are prone to congestion, especially during peak hours, impacting drive times to healthcare providers. Understanding these nuances is essential for assessing the Overall Health Score.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The most common mode of transportation in 32234 for healthcare access is by car. Drive times to medical facilities vary considerably depending on the location within the ZIP code and the destination's proximity. The average drive time to a primary care physician within a 5-mile radius is approximately 15-25 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. However, traveling further for specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, can extend the commute to 30-45 minutes, or even longer during rush hour.

Traffic on I-95, a major north-south artery, is notorious for its bottlenecks, especially around the downtown area. I-295, the beltway, offers an alternative route, but it can also experience congestion, particularly near interchanges. US-1, while offering a more direct route to some facilities, is often plagued by stop-and-go traffic, impacting overall travel time. These factors significantly influence the Overall Health Score.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public transit services, including bus routes that serve 32234. Several bus routes, such as the 10, 11, and 14, offer connections to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be a limiting factor, with wait times potentially exceeding 30 minutes.

Furthermore, the coverage area of public transit in 32234 is not comprehensive. Many residential areas are not directly served by bus routes, necessitating a walk to the nearest stop. While JTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit for individuals with mobility limitations remain a concern. This aspect of transportation significantly impacts the Overall Health Score, especially for those with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Avenues**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in 32234. They provide a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, like First Coast Medical Transport and American Medical Response, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle patients with mobility challenges. While they offer a valuable service, they can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, impacting the Overall Health Score.

**Healthcare Facilities: A Landscape of Options**

The availability of healthcare facilities within and around 32234 is a crucial element of the Overall Health Score. Several hospitals, including Memorial Hospital and Baptist Medical Center South, are within a reasonable driving distance. Numerous clinics, urgent care centers, and specialist offices are also located in the surrounding areas.

The proximity of these facilities to major roadways is a positive factor, allowing for relatively quick access for those with private vehicles. However, the distance from certain residential areas to these facilities, coupled with traffic congestion, can diminish the overall accessibility.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis of Factors**

Considering the factors outlined above, the Overall Health Score for 32234 is moderate. The availability of healthcare facilities is generally good, but the transportation challenges significantly impact accessibility. Drive times, particularly during peak hours, can be lengthy. Public transit options are available but limited in scope and frequency. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, but their cost and availability may be prohibitive for some.

For individuals moving to Jacksonville and considering 32234, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Those with reliable access to a car will likely find healthcare access more manageable. Individuals reliant on public transit or with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available routes and consider the potential challenges.

The Overall Health Score is not static; it can fluctuate based on individual circumstances and evolving transportation infrastructure. However, it provides a valuable framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in 32234. This understanding is critical for making informed decisions about healthcare and overall well-being, particularly when considering a move to Jacksonville.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the Overall Health Score in 32234 requires strategic initiatives. Expanding public transit routes and increasing their frequency would significantly enhance accessibility. Investing in smart traffic management systems to mitigate congestion on I-95, I-295, and US-1 would reduce drive times. Promoting ride-sharing programs and exploring partnerships with medical transport services could also improve access for those with limited transportation options. These improvements would contribute to a healthier and more accessible community for all residents.