32579, Shalimar, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32579, Shalimar, Florida is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.21 percent of residents in 32579 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is 96th Medical Group (Eglin Afb) with a distance of 1.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Shalimar, Florida (ZIP Code 32579)

The Emerald Coast, with its shimmering turquoise waters and sugar-white sands, beckons. Families, retirees, and young professionals alike are drawn to the promise of a relaxed lifestyle and a thriving community. Those considering a move to Shalimar, Florida (ZIP Code 32579), must, however, consider a critical aspect of daily life: healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for the area, focusing on the realities of **transportation** options and their impact on reaching medical facilities.

Shalimar itself is a small, primarily residential community nestled between the larger cities of Fort Walton Beach and Destin. This location, while offering proximity to the Gulf, also presents challenges in terms of healthcare accessibility. The "Overall Health Score" considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport to paint a comprehensive picture.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

The most common mode of **transportation** for healthcare appointments in Shalimar is, undoubtedly, personal vehicles. Understanding the road network is crucial. The primary artery connecting Shalimar to healthcare facilities is **Highway 98**, also known as Miracle Strip Parkway. This busy thoroughfare is the lifeblood of the area, carrying residents east and west. During peak hours, traffic congestion can be significant, particularly near the bridges and intersections.

Heading east on Highway 98 provides access to several medical facilities in Fort Walton Beach. A drive to **Fort Walton Beach Medical Center**, a major hospital, typically takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Further east, towards Okaloosa Island, you'll find urgent care clinics and specialist offices, reachable within a 20 to 30-minute drive.

Westbound on Highway 98 leads to Destin, a popular tourist destination. While Destin has fewer primary care facilities, specialist offices, and the **Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast** can be reached in approximately 20 to 35 minutes. This time frame is highly susceptible to traffic, especially during the peak tourist season.

Secondary roads, such as **Shalimar Parkway** and **Harbor Boulevard**, offer alternative routes, though they are often slower and can be subject to local traffic patterns. These roads provide access to smaller clinics and pharmacies within the immediate vicinity of Shalimar.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Okaloosa County are limited, which significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score." The Emerald Coast **Rider**, the local bus service, provides routes that serve the greater Fort Walton Beach and Destin areas. However, the frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, is limited.

Route 10, which primarily runs along Highway 98, is the most relevant route for Shalimar residents seeking healthcare. While the bus does provide access to several medical facilities, the travel time can be significantly longer than driving. A trip to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, for example, could take up to an hour or more, including waiting times and transfers.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor for individuals with disabilities. The Emerald Coast Rider does offer accessible buses, but the reliability of their availability and the overall convenience of the service for those with mobility challenges need to be considered. The limited routes and infrequent service make public transit a less desirable option for many, particularly for urgent medical needs.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area and offer a more convenient alternative to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas, can also be a concern.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services typically offer door-to-door service and specialized assistance for individuals with mobility issues or other medical needs. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments. Several companies, including local ambulance services and private medical **transportation** providers, operate in the area.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Evaluation**

The "Overall Health Score" for Shalimar, considering healthcare access, is influenced by several factors. While the area boasts a relatively low crime rate and access to outdoor recreational activities, the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare **transportation** presents a significant challenge. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and tourist season, can add considerable time to travel to appointments.

The limited availability of public transit further compounds the issue, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. While ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer alternatives, the cost and availability of these services can be a barrier for some residents.

**Moving to Shalimar:** **Transportation** Considerations

For those considering **moving to Shalimar**, a careful assessment of healthcare access is crucial. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those who require frequent medical appointments should factor in the potential travel times and the cost of **transportation** when making their decision.

The "Overall Health Score" can be improved by advocating for expanded public transit options, including increased frequency of service and expanded routes. Promoting the use of ride-sharing programs and exploring partnerships with local medical facilities to provide **transportation** assistance can also enhance healthcare access.

In conclusion, while Shalimar offers a desirable lifestyle, the accessibility of healthcare requires careful consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** all contribute to a mixed "Overall Health Score." Prospective residents should weigh these factors carefully when considering a move to this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community. The ease of getting to your doctor is a critical aspect of the overall health of a community.