32344, Monticello, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32344, Monticello, Florida is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.53 percent of residents in 32344 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Capital Hospital with a distance of 21.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32344 (Monticello, Florida)

Understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial when considering a move, especially to a rural area like Monticello, Florida, within ZIP code 32344. This assessment, an "Overall Health Score," examines the accessibility of healthcare services, focusing on transportation options, drive times, and the availability of alternative transit solutions. This analysis is vital for anyone prioritizing healthcare access while contemplating moving to Monticello.

The primary factor influencing the Overall Health Score is the reliance on personal vehicles. Monticello, nestled in Jefferson County, is a car-dependent community. The geography, characterized by rolling hills and dispersed populations, makes public transportation limited. Therefore, the ability to drive is paramount for accessing medical care. The drive times to various healthcare facilities directly impact the score. Longer drive times, especially in emergencies, negatively affect the Overall Health Score.

The most direct route to major medical facilities typically involves navigating highways and roads. The primary thoroughfare is Interstate 10 (I-10), running east-west, providing access to Tallahassee (Leon County) to the west and Jacksonville (Duval County) to the east. From Monticello, a drive west on I-10 leads to Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH), a Level II trauma center, approximately 35 miles away. This drive, under ideal conditions, takes roughly 45 minutes.

Alternatively, the route to Tallahassee often involves US Highway 90, a slower, more scenic route. US 90, also known as the Thomasville Road, offers access to various clinics and medical offices along the way. However, this route is prone to traffic, particularly during peak hours, potentially increasing travel time. The roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to weather conditions, further impacting healthcare access.

For those seeking specialized care, the drive to Jacksonville, approximately 150 miles east on I-10, presents a significant time commitment. This drive, taking around two and a half hours, necessitates careful planning and consideration for potential delays. The availability of healthcare access in Jacksonville broadens the scope of medical options, but the distance is a considerable factor affecting the Overall Health Score.

Public transportation options in Monticello are extremely limited. The Jefferson County Council on Aging provides some transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, these services are demand-response, meaning they require advance scheduling and are not a readily available option for urgent medical needs. There is no fixed-route public transit system within the county, severely restricting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

The absence of a robust public transit system significantly diminishes the Overall Health Score. The lack of readily available transportation options for those unable to drive, or who prefer not to, creates a barrier to healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles places an additional burden on individuals, particularly those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Monticello, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. The limited driver pool and the rural nature of the area mean wait times can be lengthy, and services may be unavailable at certain times, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This variability further impacts the Overall Health Score, as it introduces uncertainty into the equation of accessing healthcare.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in Monticello. These services are crucial for emergencies and for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and the availability of NEMT services may be limited, especially for routine appointments.

The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net, but it doesn't negate the challenges posed by the limited transportation options. The Overall Health Score reflects the need for greater healthcare access, particularly for those who are vulnerable.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of transportation options is a critical consideration. While medical transport services are generally ADA compliant, the lack of accessible public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create challenges for individuals with disabilities. This aspect further impacts the Overall Health Score, highlighting the need for improved accessibility in healthcare access.

The Overall Health Score for 32344 is negatively impacted by the following: drive times to major healthcare facilities, the absence of a robust public transportation system, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost and limitations of medical transport. The score reflects the need for improved transportation options to enhance healthcare access for all residents of Monticello.

The Overall Health Score is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experience of residents. It considers the practical realities of getting to the doctor, the hospital, or other medical appointments. It acknowledges the impact of transportation on health outcomes and the importance of equitable healthcare access.

The Overall Health Score for 32344 suggests a need for strategic initiatives to improve healthcare access. This could involve exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to improve availability, advocating for expanded NEMT services, or investigating the feasibility of a demand-response public transit system tailored to the needs of the community. The goal is to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare environment for all residents, improving the Overall Health Score and enhancing the quality of life for those moving to Monticello.