32948, Fellsmere, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32948, Fellsmere, Florida is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.17 percent of residents in 32948 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sebastian River Medical Center with a distance of 8.57 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32948

ZIP Code 32948, encompassing the charming town of Fellsmere, Florida, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly concerning access to healthcare. The vast, largely rural expanse of Indian River County necessitates careful consideration of transportation options, as the ability to reach medical facilities directly impacts health outcomes. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" by analyzing the available transportation infrastructure and its implications for residents seeking medical care.

The primary challenge for Fellsmere residents lies in the distance to comprehensive healthcare services. The town itself lacks a major hospital or extensive specialist clinics. This geographical reality immediately influences the "Healthcare Access" component of the overall health score, creating a dependency on efficient and reliable **transportation**.

The most common mode of transport for healthcare access is personal vehicles. Residents typically navigate the area using the major thoroughfares of **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, **Highway 60**, and **Highway 50**. The average drive time to the nearest major hospitals, such as Sebastian River Medical Center or Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital in Vero Beach, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within 32948.

These drive times, while manageable, can become significant barriers during emergencies or for individuals with mobility limitations. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, also impacts travel times and safety. The distance factor, coupled with potential traffic congestion, contributes to a slightly diminished "Healthcare Access" score.

Public transit options in the area are limited. The Indian River County Transit (IRCT) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. Route 1, the primary route, travels along **Highway 60** and connects to Vero Beach, but it may require transfers and extended travel times to reach specific medical appointments. ADA accessibility is a standard feature on all IRCT buses, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

The lack of extensive public transit options underscores the need for alternative **transportation** solutions, especially for those unable to drive. This scarcity impacts the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a more flexible option than public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a significant burden for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments. Availability can also be a concern, particularly during peak hours or in remote areas of 32948. These factors contribute to a moderate impact on the overall health score.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are another consideration. Companies like First Transit or other local providers offer specialized services for individuals requiring assistance with mobility or medical needs. These services can be invaluable for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, impacting the overall health score.

The **healthcare access** score is also influenced by the availability of urgent care facilities and primary care physicians within a reasonable distance. While Fellsmere has some local medical offices, specialized care often necessitates travel to Vero Beach or other larger cities. This further emphasizes the importance of reliable **transportation**.

For individuals **moving to Fellsmere**, the health score implications are crucial. The relatively long distances to major hospitals and specialized medical care facilities should be a primary consideration. Prospective residents should evaluate their **transportation** needs and plan accordingly. This might involve assessing the availability of personal vehicles, exploring public transit options, or factoring in the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 32948 reflects a mixed picture. While the availability of personal vehicles and ride-sharing services offers some flexibility, the limited public transit options and the distances to major medical facilities present challenges. The score is further influenced by the cost of **transportation** and the availability of medical **transportation** services.

The availability of telehealth services, which has expanded in recent years, can partially mitigate the challenges of distance. However, telehealth's effectiveness depends on reliable internet access and the ability of patients to utilize the technology. This factor can improve the overall health score for those who can access and utilize telehealth services.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 32948 could be improved by increasing public transit frequency and expanding routes to directly serve medical facilities. Promoting ride-sharing programs or subsidizing medical **transportation** services for low-income residents would also significantly enhance the score. Furthermore, attracting more primary care physicians and specialists to the Fellsmere area would dramatically improve the overall health score and healthcare access.

The geographical realities of Fellsmere, coupled with the limited **transportation** infrastructure, influence the "Overall Health Score." The need for reliable **transportation** is paramount for residents seeking healthcare. While personal vehicles offer a primary solution, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** services is essential for ensuring equitable **healthcare access** for all residents of 32948.