32423, Bascom, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32423, Bascom, Florida is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.94 percent of residents in 32423 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson Hospital with a distance of 14.69 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32423 (Bascom, Florida)**

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Bascom, Florida (ZIP Code 32423) necessitates a comprehensive examination of their access to healthcare. This analysis considers various modes of transportation, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all crucial factors in determining the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. The geographic isolation of Bascom, nestled within Jackson County, presents unique challenges to healthcare access, making this assessment particularly vital for current and prospective residents. Understanding these transportation dynamics is paramount for anyone considering moving to Bascom.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Bascom is the private vehicle. The relatively low population density and limited public transit options necessitate reliance on personal cars for most residents. The drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by the local road infrastructure.

The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating Highway 90, a major east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on Highway 90 provides access to Marianna, the county seat, where Jackson Hospital is located. The drive from Bascom to Marianna typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Bascom. This time frame can be extended during peak hours or due to unforeseen road closures.

Alternatively, heading west on Highway 90 leads towards Chipley, offering access to other healthcare providers. This route presents a similar drive time, approximately 25 to 35 minutes. Local roads, such as County Road 164, County Road 162, and County Road 273, serve as connectors, providing access to Highway 90 and facilitating travel within the county. However, these smaller roads are often less well-maintained and may be subject to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall, potentially hindering healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Bascom are extremely limited. The availability of public transit is a critical aspect of healthcare access, especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Unfortunately, the public transit infrastructure in Jackson County is not robust.

The primary public transit provider is likely to be the Jackson County Council on Aging, which operates a demand-response system. This system provides transportation services primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While this service offers a vital lifeline for some, its availability is restricted, and it requires advance booking. The service may not always be readily available for urgent medical needs. Information regarding the specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features is difficult to ascertain, highlighting a lack of transparency.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader area, but their presence in Bascom is variable. The availability of ride-sharing services depends on driver density and demand. Residents of Bascom may experience longer wait times and higher fares compared to more urban areas. This can pose a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those with limited financial resources or urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services provide a specialized option for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies offer these services, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for scheduled appointments.

Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, but the response time can be impacted by the distance to the nearest hospital and the condition of the roads. NEMT services are crucial for individuals who require assistance due to mobility limitations or other medical conditions. Companies such as First Choice Medical Transport and American Medical Response (AMR) may operate in the area. However, the availability and cost of these services can be a significant factor in healthcare access.

The overall health score for residents of Bascom, Florida (ZIP Code 32423), is significantly impacted by the challenges associated with transportation to healthcare facilities. The reliance on private vehicles, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the costs associated with medical transport all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation.

The drive times to medical facilities, particularly those in Marianna and Chipley, can be considerable, especially for individuals living in more remote areas of Bascom. The lack of reliable public transportation exacerbates this issue, leaving many residents dependent on personal vehicles or the limited resources of the Jackson County Council on Aging. The inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services and the expense of medical transport further compound the challenges.

This assessment highlights the critical need for improvements in healthcare access for the residents of Bascom. Investing in expanded public transit options, improving road infrastructure, and promoting the availability of affordable ride-sharing and medical transport services would significantly enhance the overall health score of the community.

For individuals considering moving to Bascom, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their ability to access healthcare facilities and consider the potential impact of these transportation limitations on their overall well-being. Planning for transportation to medical appointments, accounting for potential delays, and exploring all available options are crucial steps in ensuring adequate healthcare access in this rural community. The health score of Bascom is directly tied to the ability of its residents to reach the care they need.