32250, Jacksonville Beach, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32250, Jacksonville Beach, Florida is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.15 percent of residents in 32250 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center Beaches with a distance of 0.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32250 (Jacksonville Beach)

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which one can access medical services directly impacts health outcomes. This report provides a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of Jacksonville Beach, ZIP code 32250, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities. We will explore the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, to understand the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Jacksonville Beach, as it sheds light on a vital element of quality of life.

The foundation of healthcare access in 32250 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for transportation are the iconic A1A, meandering along the coast, and the more direct JTB (Butler Boulevard), a major east-west thoroughfare. Commuting to healthcare facilities often involves navigating these routes, particularly during peak hours. Drive times can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic congestion, especially during the morning and evening commutes. Residents must factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments, considering the time needed to reach their chosen healthcare provider.

Further inland, residents might utilize Atlantic Boulevard, another key east-west route, to access healthcare facilities located in Jacksonville’s Southside or near the Intracoastal Waterway. The proximity of these major roads is a double-edged sword. While they offer convenient access to a wider range of medical services, they also contribute to traffic bottlenecks that can extend travel times, potentially increasing stress and impacting the timeliness of medical care.

Public transportation, offered by the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The primary bus routes serving the Jacksonville Beach area include routes 14 and 50. Route 14 runs along Atlantic Boulevard, offering connections to various healthcare facilities and commercial areas. Route 50 provides service along A1A, catering to residents closer to the beach. However, the frequency of these routes can be a concern, particularly during evenings and weekends.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. JTA strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the potential for longer travel times due to route deviations can still pose challenges. Those relying on public transit must carefully plan their trips, factoring in transfer times and potential delays.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative, especially for those seeking door-to-door transportation. These services are readily available in Jacksonville Beach, providing a flexible option for accessing healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. The availability of drivers can also fluctuate, potentially impacting the reliability of this transportation option.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by private companies, cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services provide a valuable resource, they are often more expensive than other options, and may require advance booking.

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities within and around 32250 plays a crucial role in accessibility. Several primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers are located within a reasonable driving distance. However, for specialized care, residents may need to travel further, potentially to hospitals like Baptist Medical Center Beaches or Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, located in the Southside area. This necessitates careful consideration of travel times and transportation options.

The overall "Overall Health Score" for commute to healthcare in 32250 is moderate. While residents benefit from a relatively convenient location with access to major roadways and ride-sharing services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can also be a barrier for some individuals.

The availability of healthcare providers within the area is generally good, but the need for specialized care may require longer travel distances. The accessibility of public transit is improving, but the frequency and coverage of bus routes could be enhanced. The JTA’s commitment to ADA accessibility is commendable, but improvements in stop accessibility and route efficiency would further benefit individuals with disabilities.

For individuals considering moving to Jacksonville Beach, a thorough understanding of these transportation and healthcare access factors is essential. Prospective residents should assess their individual needs and preferences, considering the available options and potential challenges. Factors like age, mobility, and financial resources will influence the most suitable transportation choices.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several recommendations can be made. Enhancing the frequency and coverage of JTA bus routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, would increase accessibility for residents without personal vehicles. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options, potentially through partnerships with healthcare providers, could help alleviate transportation barriers. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as dedicated bus lanes and traffic management systems, could reduce travel times and improve the efficiency of transportation networks.

Finally, promoting awareness of available healthcare resources and transportation options is crucial. Providing clear and concise information about healthcare providers, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options can empower residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Jacksonville Beach can enhance its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have convenient and reliable access to the medical care they need.