32254, Jacksonville, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32254, Jacksonville, Florida is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.67 percent of residents in 32254 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent's Riverside with a distance of 3.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32254

Considering a move to Jacksonville, Florida, and specifically the 32254 ZIP code? Understanding the ease of access to healthcare is crucial for your overall well-being. This report provides an 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare accessibility within this area, focusing on transportation options, drive times, and available services. The score considers the practicalities of reaching medical facilities, offering a realistic perspective for prospective residents.

The 32254 ZIP code, encompassing parts of the Mandarin and Julington Creek areas, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While generally considered a suburban environment, the availability and convenience of transportation significantly influence the health score. Residents' ability to reach medical appointments promptly and efficiently is a key factor in maintaining good health.

**Drive Times and Roadways: A Primary Consideration**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 32254 is personal vehicles. The area's road network, while generally well-maintained, experiences peak-hour congestion, potentially impacting healthcare access. Primary arteries include Interstate 295 (I-295), a critical loop around Jacksonville, and San Jose Boulevard (US-13). Commuting to healthcare facilities often involves navigating these routes.

Drive times vary considerably depending on the destination and time of day. Baptist Medical Center South, located near the intersection of I-295 and Old St. Augustine Road, is a major healthcare provider easily accessible via I-295. Expect a drive time of approximately 10-20 minutes from most parts of 32254, excluding rush hour.

For facilities further north, such as St. Vincent's Southside, the journey may involve navigating I-295 and potentially the Fuller Warren Bridge (I-95), adding to the travel time. Smaller clinics and specialist offices located along San Jose Boulevard or Old St. Augustine Road are generally more accessible, with drive times ranging from 5-15 minutes.

The overall health score is impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles. While providing flexibility, traffic congestion can create stress and potentially delay urgent medical attention. The need to factor in travel time when scheduling appointments is vital.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in 32254, provided by the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), presents a more limited option for healthcare access. The JTA operates bus routes throughout the area, but frequency and coverage are not as extensive as in more urbanized areas.

Several JTA bus routes serve the 32254 ZIP code, including routes along San Jose Boulevard and Old St. Augustine Road. However, these routes typically run with limited frequency, especially during evenings and weekends. Planning a healthcare visit using public transportation requires careful consideration of schedules and potential wait times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical feature of the JTA's services. All JTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and potential for longer travel times can still pose challenges for those relying on public transit.

The impact on the overall health score is significant. The limited public transportation options reduce the accessibility of healthcare for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. This can disproportionately affect elderly residents or individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. These services are readily available in 32254, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. Ride-sharing can be a convenient option, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to use public transit.

However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also fluctuate, potentially leading to delays. The overall health score is affected by the reliance on these services, which can add to the financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or other medical needs, are also available in the 32254 area. Companies like First Coast Medical Transportation and others provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for individuals requiring assistance with transportation.

The availability of medical transportation positively impacts the health score, offering a specialized solution for those with specific needs. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 32254 is a complex evaluation. The area benefits from a good selection of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges.

The drive times to major hospitals are generally reasonable, but traffic congestion can impact these times. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation offer alternatives, but they come with associated costs. The JTA provides public transportation, but the limited route coverage and frequency can make it less convenient.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 32254 is moderate. While residents have access to a variety of healthcare providers, the convenience of reaching these facilities is influenced by transportation limitations. Individuals who rely on personal vehicles will likely find healthcare access relatively easy, while those who depend on public transportation or ride-sharing services may face more challenges.

When moving to Jacksonville, prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and the potential impact on healthcare access. Planning ahead, understanding the available options, and budgeting for transportation costs are crucial for maintaining good health and well-being in the 32254 ZIP code.