32640, Hawthorne, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32640, Hawthorne, Florida is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.27 percent of residents in 32640 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Va North Florida/South Georgia Healthcare System - Gainesville with a distance of 17.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in 32640 (Hawthorne, Florida)

Navigating the intricate web of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, particularly in a rural setting like Hawthorne, Florida (ZIP Code 32640). This assessment provides an “Overall Health Score” by examining the available transportation options to medical facilities, weighing factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This analysis will empower prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs when considering moving to Hawthorne.

The “Overall Health Score” is not a numerical value but a qualitative evaluation. It synthesizes the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare transportation landscape, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities residents face.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation in Hawthorne is the personal vehicle. The convenience of a car is undeniable, but the distances to healthcare providers can significantly impact accessibility.

For routine medical appointments, the closest options are generally within Alachua County. Reaching the University of Florida Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, a major regional medical center, necessitates a drive of approximately 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The primary route is via **State Road 20**, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. **US-441**, another major artery, offers an alternative, though it may involve navigating more urban areas.

Specialized medical care, such as oncology or cardiology, often requires travel to Gainesville. The drive to the North Florida Regional Medical Center, another significant healthcare provider, is comparable in time and route, utilizing **State Road 20** or **US-441**.

Emergency situations, however, highlight the importance of proximity. The drive to the nearest emergency room, typically in Gainesville, can be a significant factor in patient outcomes. Every minute counts, and the potential for delays due to traffic or distance must be considered.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Hawthorne is a less developed aspect of healthcare access. The local bus system, operated by the Regional Transit System (RTS), offers limited service to and from Gainesville.

RTS Route 35 provides service to Hawthorne, connecting residents to Gainesville. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. This necessitates careful planning and potentially longer travel times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. RTS vehicles are equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the limited route options and potential for long travel times can pose challenges for those with disabilities.

The reliance on a car is the norm. The lack of frequent, direct routes to healthcare facilities presents a significant hurdle for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability in Hawthorne is variable. While these services are generally available, the response times and pricing can fluctuate depending on demand and the availability of drivers in the area.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers.

Several medical transport companies operate in the Gainesville area and may serve Hawthorne. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for low-income residents or those with chronic medical conditions requiring frequent appointments.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The overall healthcare access in Hawthorne, Florida (32640) presents a mixed picture. While the presence of major medical centers in Gainesville offers a wide range of specialized services, the distance and limited transportation options create challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles is the dominant paradigm. The drive times to healthcare providers can be a significant factor in patient outcomes, particularly in emergency situations.

The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The cost of medical transport services can be a significant barrier for some residents.

**Moving to Hawthorne: A Careful Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Hawthorne, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. Those with chronic medical conditions or limited mobility should carefully evaluate the availability of transportation services and the potential for delays.

The absence of convenient public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles underscore the importance of having reliable transportation. Prospective residents should factor in the cost of transportation when budgeting for healthcare expenses.

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in 32640 is moderate. While the availability of healthcare facilities in Gainesville is a positive factor, the transportation challenges present significant obstacles. Prospective residents should carefully weigh these factors when making their decision about moving to Hawthorne.