32656, Keystone Heights, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32656, Keystone Heights, Florida is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.86 percent of residents in 32656 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Putnam Hospital with a distance of 20.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32656 (Keystone Heights, FL)

The health and well-being of residents in Keystone Heights, Florida (ZIP Code 32656), are intrinsically linked to their ability to access healthcare services. This comprehensive analysis, resulting in an "Overall Health Score," considers the multifaceted aspects of transportation infrastructure and options available for navigating to and from medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care facilities. The score reflects the ease, efficiency, and accessibility of these journeys, ultimately impacting the overall health outcomes of the community.

Keystone Heights, nestled in Clay County, presents a unique challenge due to its rural setting and the limited availability of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity. This reality necessitates a reliance on transportation to reach medical facilities, making the quality and diversity of these options paramount. The following assessment delves into the specifics of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, painting a detailed picture of the healthcare access landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Health**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Keystone Heights is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The reliance on private cars dictates that the condition of roadways and the distances to medical facilities are critical factors in determining the overall health score. Residents typically travel along **State Road 21** (SR 21), the main north-south artery through the town, to reach medical centers. This road provides a direct route to larger cities like Gainesville, approximately a 40-to-50-minute drive depending on traffic, where a greater concentration of specialized medical services exists.

The journey to Orange Park, another destination for healthcare, is also a common route, requiring travel on SR 21 and then navigating onto **Interstate 295**. This trip can take around an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location of the medical facility. The condition of SR 21 is generally good, though it can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near intersections and school zones. **County Road 214** offers an alternative route for some destinations, though it is a less direct option.

The time spent in transit is a significant factor in the overall health score. Longer drive times can lead to delays in seeking medical attention, especially during emergencies. They can also increase stress levels and potentially discourage individuals from attending preventative care appointments. The accessibility of these roadways, the presence of adequate signage, and the overall safety of the driving environment contribute to the overall assessment.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within and around Keystone Heights are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The **Clay County Transportation (CCT)** offers a demand-response service, which requires advance booking and is primarily designed for those with disabilities or limited mobility. This service operates within Clay County, providing transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other essential destinations. However, its availability is restricted, and it may not always be a viable option for urgent care or spontaneous appointments.

The **Gainesville Regional Transit System (RTS)**, while serving Gainesville, does not directly connect with Keystone Heights. This means that residents would need to find an alternative mode of transportation to reach Gainesville, where they could then utilize the RTS. The lack of a robust public transportation network significantly impacts the health score, particularly for those who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive.

**ADA Accessibility and Considerations**

The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles within the CCT fleet is a crucial factor in assessing the accessibility of public transportation. The CCT is mandated to provide accessible services, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access medical appointments and other essential services. However, the demand for these services can sometimes exceed the available resources, potentially leading to delays or limitations in access. The availability of accessible stops and routes along the roadways is also a key factor.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Keystone Heights, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **First Call Medical Transportation** operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation. The availability and affordability of these services contribute to the overall health score, particularly for those who require specialized assistance.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

The proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities within and around Keystone Heights significantly impact the overall health score. While Keystone Heights has some local medical clinics, residents often need to travel to larger cities like Gainesville or Orange Park to access specialized care, hospitals, and a wider range of medical specialists. This travel requirement underscores the importance of reliable transportation options.

The presence of local pharmacies and the availability of prescription refills within the community also play a vital role in healthcare access. The ability to easily obtain medications is a critical component of maintaining good health.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 32656 reflects a mixed picture. While the reliance on personal vehicles provides a degree of flexibility, the long drive times to specialized medical facilities and the limited public transportation options present significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some relief, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors.

The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive times:** The time required to reach medical facilities, especially those offering specialized care, is a significant factor.
* **Public transportation:** The limited availability of public transit options, particularly for those with disabilities or limited mobility, negatively impacts the score.
* **Ride-sharing and medical transportation:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer some improvement, but their limitations must be considered.
* **Road infrastructure:** The condition and safety of roadways, particularly SR 21, are essential.
* **Healthcare facility proximity:** The distance to local clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies impacts the overall score.

**Moving to Keystone Heights:**

Individuals considering moving to Keystone Heights should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to healthcare. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should be particularly mindful of the challenges associated with accessing medical services. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services should also be thoroughly researched. The overall health score suggests that residents of Keystone Heights need to proactively plan for their healthcare transportation needs.