32257, Jacksonville, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32257, Jacksonville, Florida is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.73 percent of residents in 32257 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent's Southside with a distance of 4.63 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32257**

This report assesses the accessibility of healthcare within ZIP Code 32257, focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall health. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is crucial for evaluating the quality of life and making informed decisions about moving to Jacksonville. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare within this specific geographic area.

ZIP Code 32257, located in Jacksonville, Florida, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Spanning a considerable area, the availability of diverse transportation options is essential for residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The 'Overall Health Score' will take into account the efficiency and reliability of these options, ultimately determining the overall ease of healthcare access for the community.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

For many residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. Accessing healthcare facilities in 32257 typically involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. The primary arteries include Interstate 295 (I-295), which serves as a major beltway, and US-1 (Philips Highway), a significant north-south thoroughfare. Commuting to hospitals and clinics often necessitates utilizing these routes, with traffic conditions significantly impacting travel times.

Depending on the specific location within 32257, drive times to major healthcare providers can vary considerably. Baptist South, a prominent hospital, is a common destination. Commuting to this facility from the northern parts of 32257 can take approximately 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions, primarily via I-295 and US-1. However, during peak hours, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or more, significantly impacting healthcare access.

Other important destinations include the Mayo Clinic, which is located a bit further away, and various urgent care facilities scattered throughout the area. Drive times to these locations will vary based on the specific origin point within 32257 and the chosen route. The presence of local roads like Old St. Augustine Road and Baymeadows Road provides alternative routes, but these can also be congested, particularly during rush hour.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag**

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides public transportation services within the city, including the 32257 ZIP Code. However, the coverage and frequency of bus routes in this area are limited compared to more central locations. This situation presents challenges for residents who do not have access to a personal vehicle, impacting their ability to access healthcare.

Several JTA bus routes serve the 32257 area, including routes like the 10, 18, and 101. These routes provide connections to major transit hubs and healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, making it difficult to plan timely medical appointments.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor. The JTA is committed to providing accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities. All JTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and the authority offers paratransit services for those who cannot use the regular bus routes. These services are essential for ensuring healthcare access for all residents, regardless of their physical abilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, especially for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The availability of these services in 32257 is generally good, but the cost can be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The convenience and flexibility of ride-sharing make it a valuable option, especially for urgent care visits or when public transit is not feasible.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like First Coast Medical Transport and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering specialized services like wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. These services are particularly important for those who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. The availability and cost of these specialized services can significantly impact the 'Overall Health Score'.

**Overall Health Score: Factors and Considerations**

The 'Overall Health Score' for accessing healthcare in 32257 is influenced by a combination of factors. Drive times, particularly during peak hours, pose a challenge. The limited coverage and frequency of public transit routes create barriers for some residents. While ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer viable alternatives, their cost can be a significant consideration.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP Code also plays a role. The presence of urgent care centers and primary care physicians within the area enhances healthcare access. However, the need to travel to larger hospitals or specialized clinics can increase commute times.

The 'Overall Health Score' should also consider the demographic makeup of the area. Factors like age, income, and disability status can influence the ability to access healthcare. For example, elderly residents or individuals with disabilities may rely more heavily on public transit or specialized medical transportation services.

**Conclusion: Improving Healthcare Access**

The 'Overall Health Score' for 32257 reflects a mixed picture of healthcare access. While the presence of multiple transportation options is beneficial, the challenges of drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services present barriers for some residents. Improving healthcare access in this ZIP Code requires addressing these challenges.

Enhancements to public transit, such as increased route frequency and extended service hours, would greatly benefit residents. Encouraging the development of more healthcare facilities within the area would reduce drive times. Promoting the affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services could improve access for those who need them. These steps would contribute to a higher 'Overall Health Score' and make 32257 a more attractive place to live, especially for those considering moving to Jacksonville. Ultimately, improving healthcare access is crucial for promoting the well-being of the entire community.