32347, Perry, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32347, Perry, Florida is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.31 percent of residents in 32347 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Doctors Memorial Hospital Inc with a distance of 1.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in 32347 (Perry, Florida)

The well-being of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 32347, Perry, Florida, focusing on the crucial element of transportation to medical facilities. Understanding the challenges and opportunities within this geographic area is essential for individuals and families considering a move to Perry, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods to paint a comprehensive picture.

Perry, a charming town nestled in Taylor County, offers a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community. However, its relative isolation presents unique considerations when it comes to healthcare. The nearest major medical centers are located outside of Perry, necessitating travel. This report aims to illuminate the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape within the context of transportation.

**Drive Times: The Paved Paths to Wellness**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Perry are the highways and roads that crisscross the region. US-19, a major north-south thoroughfare, serves as a vital link. Driving south on US-19, residents can reach the Taylor County Medical Center in Perry, a crucial resource for local healthcare needs. This drive is generally short, typically under 10 minutes, making it readily accessible for urgent care and routine appointments.

For more specialized care, residents often need to travel further. Heading south on US-19, the drive to the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare system in Tallahassee, approximately 60 miles, becomes a significant undertaking. This journey, primarily on US-19, could take anywhere from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This extended travel time can be a considerable factor, especially during medical emergencies or for individuals with chronic conditions requiring frequent visits.

Another route involves using US-98, which runs east-west, offering access to healthcare facilities in the surrounding counties. However, travel times to facilities along US-98 are also substantial, often mirroring the journey to Tallahassee. The condition of the roads, especially during inclement weather, can further impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Perry are limited. The availability of buses or other forms of public transit specifically designed to connect residents to healthcare facilities is extremely restricted. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle, those who are unable to drive due to age or disability, and those who may find the cost of owning and operating a vehicle prohibitive.

The absence of regular public transit services underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions to ensure healthcare access for all residents. While the Taylor County Council on Aging may offer some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, these services are often limited in scope and availability.

**ADA Considerations: Navigating Barriers**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation. However, the limited public transit infrastructure in Perry raises concerns regarding ADA compliance. Without readily available, accessible public transit, individuals with disabilities face significant barriers to accessing healthcare. This lack of accessible transportation can exacerbate existing health disparities and create a more challenging environment for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas, but their presence in Perry is not guaranteed. The availability of these services may be sporadic, and wait times can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the availability of medical transport providers in Perry may be limited, and the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially placing a financial burden on patients.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Overall Health Score" for 32347, considering transportation to healthcare, is significantly impacted by the challenges described above. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to a complex healthcare access landscape.

The distance to major medical centers, the potential for long travel times, and the absence of readily available alternative transportation options create a situation where healthcare access can be compromised. This is particularly true for individuals with limited mobility, those without access to a vehicle, and those who may face financial constraints.

**Moving to Perry: Considering the Health Landscape**

For individuals and families considering a move to Perry, the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access should be a key consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs, assess the availability of alternative transportation options, and factor in the potential travel times to medical facilities.

Understanding the limitations of public transit, the potential reliance on personal vehicles, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial for making an informed decision. This assessment is not meant to discourage a move to Perry, but rather to provide a realistic understanding of the healthcare access challenges that may exist.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The "Overall Health Score" for 32347, Perry, Florida, highlights the need for improvements in transportation infrastructure to enhance healthcare access. Investing in public transit options, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and increasing the presence of medical transport providers would significantly improve the health and well-being of the community.

Addressing the transportation barriers to healthcare access is a crucial step in creating a healthier and more equitable community. By recognizing the challenges and working towards solutions, Perry can strive to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the healthcare they need, regardless of their transportation capabilities. This is a vital element to consider when moving to Perry.