32723, Deland, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32723, Deland, Florida is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 32723 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Deland with a distance of 1.00 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in DeLand, Florida (ZIP Code 32723)

Considering a move to DeLand, Florida, and prioritizing healthcare access? Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for assessing your overall health score. This analysis delves into the commute dynamics within ZIP Code 32723, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, providing a comprehensive overview of accessing medical care.

DeLand, a city steeped in history and charm, offers a blend of small-town living and proximity to larger urban centers. However, the sprawling nature of Central Florida necessitates careful consideration of transportation when evaluating healthcare access. The overall health score in this context reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, impacting their ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for navigating DeLand and connecting to healthcare facilities are Interstate 4 (I-4), US Highway 92 (International Speedway Boulevard), and State Road 44 (New York Avenue). These roadways, while offering relatively efficient movement, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly on I-4, which is notorious for traffic delays.

For residents residing in the eastern portions of 32723, reaching AdventHealth DeLand, the primary hospital in the area, typically involves a drive of 5-10 minutes. Those located in the western areas may face a slightly longer commute, around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Accessing specialist care, such as cardiology or dermatology, may require travel to Orlando or Daytona Beach, extending drive times significantly. A trip to Orlando, often necessary for specialized treatments, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic on I-4.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Volusia County, including DeLand, offers public transportation through Votran, the county's transit system. However, the public transit infrastructure in DeLand is limited, and its impact on healthcare access is constrained. Votran Route 20 serves DeLand, connecting to key locations within the city, including AdventHealth DeLand.

While Votran strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, the frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be a significant barrier. The limited routes and schedules mean that relying solely on public transit for healthcare appointments may be challenging, especially for those with mobility limitations or needing to reach facilities outside of the immediate DeLand area. The lack of a robust public transit system is a considerable factor in the overall health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in DeLand, offering a more flexible transportation option than public transit. These services provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, mitigating some of the challenges associated with driving or using public transit. However, ride-share costs can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments or longer distances, potentially impacting affordability for some residents.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals requiring assistance. These services often cater to patients with disabilities or those who cannot drive themselves. Several NEMT providers operate in the DeLand area, including companies like First Transit and Medical Transportation Management. These services can be crucial for those with mobility issues or those who cannot drive, significantly improving their healthcare access. However, eligibility criteria and scheduling requirements for NEMT services must be considered.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in DeLand, ZIP Code 32723, is moderate. While AdventHealth DeLand provides readily accessible primary care, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-share services for specialized care and access to facilities outside of DeLand presents challenges. The limited public transit options, particularly for those with mobility issues, further impact the score.

The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Proximity to Primary Care:** Easy access to AdventHealth DeLand boosts the score.
* **Specialist Care Access:** The need to travel to Orlando or Daytona Beach for specialized care lowers the score.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The infrequent and limited routes of Votran reduce the score.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The availability of Uber and Lyft provides a moderate boost, but cost is a factor.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability of NEMT services improves the score, especially for those with disabilities.
* **Traffic Congestion:** Peak-hour traffic on I-4 and other major roads can negatively impact the score.

**Implications for Moving to DeLand:**

For individuals considering moving to DeLand, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully assess the availability and reliability of Votran and NEMT services. Individuals who anticipate needing frequent specialized care should factor in the travel time and potential costs associated with accessing facilities outside of DeLand.

Prioritizing healthcare access is a critical component of overall well-being. The transportation infrastructure in DeLand presents both opportunities and challenges. While the presence of ride-share services and medical transport providers offers solutions, the limitations of public transit and the need for travel to access specialized care must be carefully considered.

**Recommendations for Improving the Health Score:**

* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support initiatives to expand Votran routes and increase service frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends.
* **Promote accessible infrastructure:** Advocate for ADA-compliant infrastructure throughout the city, including sidewalks, bus stops, and crosswalks.
* **Enhance medical transport coordination:** Explore opportunities to streamline and improve the coordination of NEMT services.
* **Encourage telehealth adoption:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine care and follow-up visits.
* **Support community health initiatives:** Advocate for community-based programs that provide transportation assistance and healthcare education.

By addressing these areas, DeLand can improve its overall health score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to quality healthcare. The decision to move to DeLand should be informed by a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life for all residents.