32934, Melbourne, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32934, Melbourne, Florida is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.95 percent of residents in 32934 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Melbourne Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.52 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32934

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 32934, focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. Understanding the nuances of transportation options is paramount for anyone considering moving to Melbourne, Florida, and this analysis offers a comprehensive perspective. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation, painting a picture of the overall accessibility of healthcare within and around this specific area.

ZIP code 32934, encompassing a significant portion of Melbourne, presents a unique transportation landscape. Its proximity to major roadways and its reliance on a primarily car-dependent infrastructure necessitate a careful examination of how residents can reach essential medical appointments. The ability to access healthcare is a fundamental determinant of health, and this evaluation aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic context.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation in 32934 is the personal vehicle. Commuting to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the bustling roadways of Brevard County. Major thoroughfares like US-1, a vital north-south artery, and the I-95, the primary interstate, are crucial for accessing hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices.

Drive times are significantly impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Heading north on US-1 towards Holmes Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, traveling south on US-1 to reach facilities in Palm Bay can extend commute times.

The I-95 offers a faster route for those willing to travel a bit further. However, the potential for accidents or construction delays on this interstate can significantly impact drive times. The presence of numerous traffic lights along US-1 and the occasional bottlenecks on the I-95 contribute to the variability in travel duration.

Smaller roads, such as Wickham Road and Babcock Street, provide alternative routes, but these often involve navigating residential areas and can be subject to their own traffic challenges. The variability in drive times necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays when scheduling medical appointments.

**Public Transportation Assessment:**

The availability of public transportation in 32934, while present, presents some limitations. Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT) operates a bus network that serves the Melbourne area. However, the coverage and frequency of routes may not fully meet the needs of all residents, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Several SCAT routes traverse the 32934 ZIP code. Route 1, running along US-1, offers a direct connection to several medical facilities. Route 2, traveling along Babcock Street, provides access to clinics and medical offices located along that corridor. Route 10, with its east-west travel, offers a connection to other major roads.

While SCAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, the overall accessibility of public transit can be a concern for individuals with mobility limitations. The need to navigate bus stops, potential wait times, and the possibility of transfers can pose challenges for those with disabilities or those who are elderly.

The limited frequency of bus routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, further restricts the usefulness of public transportation for healthcare access. Residents relying on public transit may face challenges in reaching medical appointments outside of standard operating hours.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for accessing healthcare facilities. These services provide a convenient and readily available means of transportation, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The availability of ride-sharing services in 32934 is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from a few minutes to 15 minutes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for individuals with limited financial resources or those requiring frequent medical transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients, provide another valuable option. Companies like First Medical Transportation and MedTrans offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients with their transportation needs.

These medical transportation services often provide door-to-door service, ensuring that patients are safely transported to and from their medical appointments. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance traveled and the level of assistance required. However, they provide a critical lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized medical care.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering all factors, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 32934 is **Moderate**. While the area benefits from the availability of multiple transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, several challenges remain.

Drive times can be variable and subject to traffic congestion. Public transportation, while present, has limitations in terms of coverage, frequency, and accessibility. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but can be expensive. Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance but may be subject to cost considerations.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of SCAT bus routes, particularly during evenings and weekends. Explore the feasibility of implementing express routes to major medical facilities.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Address traffic bottlenecks and improve traffic flow on major roadways, such as US-1 and the I-95.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Subsidies:** Consider implementing programs to subsidize ride-sharing costs for low-income residents or those with disabilities.
* **Expand Medical Transportation Services:** Encourage the growth of medical transportation services and ensure that these services are accessible and affordable for all residents.
* **Promote Healthcare Facility Proximity:** Encourage the development of healthcare facilities within the 32934 ZIP code to reduce the need for long-distance travel.

By addressing these recommendations, the community can improve healthcare access for all residents of 32934, fostering a healthier and more vibrant community. Understanding these transportation dynamics is particularly important for anyone moving to Melbourne and prioritizing healthcare accessibility.