32664, Mc Intosh, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32664, Mc Intosh, Florida is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.43 percent of residents in 32664 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Uf Health Shands Hospital with a distance of 15.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in McIntosh, FL (ZIP Code 32664)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of McIntosh, Florida (ZIP Code 32664), focusing on the critical element of transportation to medical facilities. The analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this rural area. Understanding these factors is crucial for both current residents and those considering moving to McIntosh.

McIntosh, a small town nestled in Marion County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's relative isolation, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, necessitates careful consideration of transportation options for medical appointments, emergency care, and specialized treatments. This score aims to provide a clear understanding of the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape in McIntosh.

**Drive Times: The Primary Transportation Method**

For most residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation to healthcare providers. This reliance on cars underscores the importance of well-maintained roads and manageable drive times. The primary routes for accessing healthcare from McIntosh involve navigating a network of state and county roads, with the most significant destinations being Ocala and Gainesville.

The drive to Ocala, the county seat, offers a range of healthcare options, including hospitals, specialty clinics, and urgent care facilities. The most direct route typically involves taking US-441 south. Drive times to Ocala vary depending on traffic conditions, but generally range from 20 to 30 minutes. This relatively short commute provides reasonable access to a variety of medical services.

Gainesville, a larger city with a more extensive healthcare infrastructure, presents a different commuting challenge. While Gainesville offers a broader spectrum of specialized medical care, including the renowned University of Florida Health Shands Hospital, the distance is considerably greater. The most common route involves taking US-441 north or occasionally using I-75. Drive times to Gainesville can range from 30 to 45 minutes, often longer during peak traffic hours. This longer commute time can significantly impact access, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The condition of the roads, particularly US-441, is a crucial factor. Potholes, uneven pavement, and occasional congestion can add to travel times and create stress for drivers. Regular road maintenance and traffic management strategies are essential for ensuring efficient and safe transportation to healthcare facilities.

**Public Transit: Limited but Present**

Public transportation options in McIntosh are limited, which is a common characteristic of rural areas. The primary provider is the Marion County Transit (MCT), offering fixed-route bus services. However, these routes and schedules are infrequent, and the coverage area is limited, often not extending directly into McIntosh.

The nearest MCT route might involve a drive to a designated stop, adding to the overall travel time. Furthermore, the limited frequency of buses can make it challenging to coordinate appointments and return trips. While MCT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, the lack of comprehensive coverage remains a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

The availability of public transportation is a critical factor in the overall health score. The limited options in McIntosh necessitate a reliance on alternative transportation methods or a dependence on personal vehicles. Expanding public transit services, including more frequent routes and increased coverage, would significantly improve healthcare access for many residents.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who do not own a car or are unable to drive. However, the availability of these services in McIntosh is variable. The rural nature of the area means that ride-sharing drivers may be less readily available, and wait times can be longer compared to urban areas.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The distance to healthcare facilities in Ocala or Gainesville can result in significant transportation expenses. While ride-sharing provides a valuable service, it is not a universally accessible or affordable solution for healthcare transportation in McIntosh.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services typically transport patients to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or other healthcare-related destinations. They are particularly crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport.

The availability and cost of medical transport services vary. While these services can be essential for certain individuals, they may not be readily accessible or affordable for all residents. The overall health score must consider the accessibility and affordability of these specialized transportation options.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in McIntosh, FL (ZIP Code 32664) is moderate. While the proximity to Ocala offers relatively convenient access to a range of healthcare services, the longer commute to Gainesville and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services present significant challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of road maintenance and traffic management. The limited availability of alternative transportation options, such as public transit and ride-sharing, creates barriers for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

The cost and accessibility of medical transport services also play a crucial role in the overall score. While these services are essential for some, their availability and affordability may not meet the needs of all residents.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in McIntosh, several key areas require attention:

* **Improve Public Transit:** Expanding MCT routes and increasing the frequency of service, particularly to Ocala and Gainesville, would significantly enhance healthcare access for residents.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Encouraging ride-sharing companies to increase their presence in the area through incentives or partnerships could improve availability.
* **Support Medical Transport:** Ensuring the availability and affordability of medical transport services for those in need is crucial.
* **Enhance Road Infrastructure:** Maintaining and improving US-441 and other key roads is essential for safe and efficient travel to healthcare facilities.
* **Community Outreach:** Educating residents about available transportation options and providing assistance with scheduling and coordinating transportation can improve healthcare access.

By addressing these areas, the community can improve healthcare access and enhance the overall health and well-being of its residents, making McIntosh a more attractive place to live and a healthier place to call home. The future of healthcare access in McIntosh depends on proactive efforts to improve transportation options, ensuring that all residents can readily access the medical care they need.