32904, Melbourne, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32904, Melbourne, Florida is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.71 percent of residents in 32904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Melbourne Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32904

This analysis provides an overall health score for healthcare access within ZIP Code 32904, focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents’ ability to reach medical facilities. Understanding the nuances of transportation is crucial for anyone considering moving to Melbourne, Florida, as it directly influences healthcare access and overall well-being. This write-up details drive times, public transit routes, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape.

ZIP Code 32904, encompassing a significant portion of Melbourne, Florida, presents a mixed bag of transportation challenges and opportunities. The area is characterized by suburban sprawl, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles. However, the presence of public transit and ride-sharing services offers alternative options, particularly for those without personal transportation or for whom driving is not feasible. Evaluating these transportation methods is essential for assessing the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in 32904 are Interstate 95 (I-95), US Highway 1, and Eau Gallie Boulevard. Drive times to major healthcare providers vary depending on the location within the ZIP code and the destination. For example, driving from the northern reaches of 32904 to Health First's Holmes Regional Medical Center, a major hospital, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-95 or US Highway 1.

Similarly, accessing the Melbourne Regional Medical Center, located further south, requires navigating US Highway 1 or taking a longer route via I-95. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend these drive times. Residents should account for potential delays when planning medical appointments, especially considering the potential for worsening health conditions.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities scattered throughout 32904 offer more immediate options. However, these facilities may not provide the comprehensive services available at larger hospitals, such as specialized care or advanced diagnostic imaging. The proximity of these facilities offers some convenience, but the overall accessibility of specialized care remains a key factor in the health score.

**Public Transportation:**

Brevard County's public transportation system, Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT), provides bus services within 32904. Several routes serve the area, including Route 1 (connecting Melbourne Square Mall to downtown Melbourne), Route 2 (running along US Highway 1), and Route 26 (serving Eau Gallie Boulevard). These routes offer a viable option for those without personal vehicles, particularly for accessing healthcare facilities along the main thoroughfares.

However, the frequency of bus service can be a limiting factor. Headways (the time between buses) can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours and on weekends. This necessitates careful planning and can significantly increase the total travel time to medical appointments. Furthermore, the coverage area of SCAT, while improving, still leaves some areas of 32904 underserved, requiring residents to walk a considerable distance to reach a bus stop.

SCAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial element in promoting equitable healthcare access for all residents. However, the overall efficiency and convenience of public transit in 32904 need improvement to significantly enhance the health score.

**Ride-Share Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in 32904, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing residents to request a ride directly from their location to a healthcare facility. The availability of ride-sharing is a positive factor in the health score, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who prefer not to drive.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase the expense. Moreover, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be variable, depending on driver availability and traffic conditions. While ride-sharing is a valuable option, it is not a universally accessible solution.

**Medical Transport Services:**

Several specialized medical transport services operate in 32904, catering to individuals with specific medical needs. These services include non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals requiring assistance with mobility, such as those using wheelchairs or walkers. They also provide ambulance services for emergencies.

Companies like First Call Medical Transportation and Brevard County Ambulance Service are among those providing NEMT services. These services are often covered by insurance, making them a more affordable option for some residents. However, eligibility criteria and waiting times can vary, and access to these services may require prior arrangements.

The availability of ambulance services is critical for responding to medical emergencies. Brevard County Fire Rescue provides emergency medical services, ensuring prompt response times in critical situations. The presence of these emergency services is a significant positive factor in the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 32904 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of multiple transportation options – personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport – is encouraging, significant challenges remain.

Drive times, particularly during peak hours, can be a barrier to accessing healthcare. The limitations of public transit, including infrequent service and limited coverage, further restrict access. Ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative, but the cost and reliability can be concerns. Medical transport services provide vital support for those with specific needs, but access may be limited.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score, several measures are recommended. Enhancing public transit, including increasing frequency, expanding coverage, and improving the integration with other transportation modes, is crucial. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could enhance accessibility.

Furthermore, providing better information and resources to residents about available transportation options, including medical transport services, is essential. Streamlining the process for accessing NEMT services and ensuring adequate ambulance coverage are also critical.

For individuals considering moving to Melbourne, Florida, and specifically to 32904, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Evaluating the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs and limitations of each mode is crucial for making an informed decision. The overall health score for 32904, while showing some strengths, necessitates careful consideration of transportation factors for those seeking to optimize their healthcare access. Addressing these challenges is paramount to improving the health and well-being of all residents in the area.