32459, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32459, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.11 percent of residents in 32459 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sacred Heart Hospital On The Emerald Coast with a distance of 6.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32459

The sun-drenched shores of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida (ZIP Code 32459), beckon with promises of coastal bliss. Yet, beyond the sugar-white sands and emerald waters, prospective residents must consider a crucial aspect of their well-being: healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, meticulously examining the transportation landscape for accessing medical facilities, offering a comprehensive view for those contemplating moving to Santa Rosa Beach.

The score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach necessary medical care, factoring in drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. A high score indicates readily accessible healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. This assessment considers the unique geographical characteristics of the area, aiming to provide a realistic and practical understanding.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

For most residents, personal vehicles form the primary mode of transportation. The health score hinges significantly on drive times to healthcare facilities. The primary artery serving Santa Rosa Beach is **U.S. Highway 98**, a vital east-west corridor. Access to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns like Panama City Beach and Destin will be heavily reliant on this highway. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak tourist seasons, can significantly impact travel times.

Secondary roads, such as **County Highway 30A**, offer scenic routes but may be less efficient for medical appointments due to lower speed limits and increased congestion in certain areas. **County Highway 83** provides a north-south connection, potentially offering alternative routes to facilities in the northern part of the county.

Drive times to major hospitals and clinics in the region are crucial. For instance, the drive to Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast in Destin, a major healthcare provider, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic on Highway 98. Similarly, reaching Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center in Panama City, another significant hospital, can range from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, again influenced by traffic volume on Highway 98. This variance underscores the importance of considering traffic patterns when evaluating healthcare accessibility.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Santa Rosa Beach are notably limited. The Emerald Coast Rider, the local public transit system, primarily serves the Destin and Fort Walton Beach areas, with limited routes extending towards Santa Rosa Beach. The frequency of these routes is often low, and the coverage area may not adequately serve all residents, particularly those residing further inland.

The availability of public transit, therefore, does not significantly contribute to the overall health score. Those who rely on public transportation for healthcare access may face significant challenges, especially for urgent medical needs. The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

ADA accessibility, however, is a critical consideration for any public transit system. The Emerald Coast Rider is required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing accessible vehicles and services. This is a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities who may need to utilize public transportation for healthcare appointments. However, the limited scope of the system diminishes its overall impact on the health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative to personal vehicles and offer a degree of flexibility. Their availability in Santa Rosa Beach is generally good, especially during peak seasons. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services during emergencies also needs consideration, as availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a vital service. Companies like First Choice Medical Transportation and MedStar Medical Transport operate in the area, providing non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. The availability and cost of these services, however, can impact the overall health score, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Assessment**

The overall health score for access to healthcare in ZIP Code 32459 reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on Highway 98 are significant factors. The limited public transportation options further challenge healthcare access for those without personal transportation.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport companies offers some relief, but the cost and reliability of these services must be considered. The score is further influenced by the distance to major hospitals and clinics, with longer drive times potentially impacting timely access to care.

**Moving to Santa Rosa Beach: A Practical Perspective**

For those moving to Santa Rosa Beach, careful consideration of healthcare access is paramount. The ideal scenario involves having a reliable personal vehicle and understanding potential traffic patterns on Highway 98. Researching the location of healthcare facilities and the associated drive times is crucial.

Exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also recommended, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or have mobility limitations.

Ultimately, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 32459 is moderately positive. While challenges exist due to the transportation landscape, the availability of various services, coupled with the presence of quality healthcare providers in the region, ensures a reasonable level of healthcare access. Careful planning and consideration of individual needs are essential for ensuring access to the healthcare required.