32959, Sharpes, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 32959, Sharpes, Florida is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 32959 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Steward Rockledge Hospital with a distance of 6.94 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32959 (Sharpes, Florida)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. In the quiet, unincorporated community of Sharpes, Florida (ZIP Code 32959), this vital connection is largely defined by the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation. Assessing the overall health score for this area necessitates a deep dive into the available modes of transportation, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the potential barriers faced by residents seeking medical attention. This analysis will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Sharpes.

Sharpes, nestled along the Indian River Lagoon in Brevard County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The community's relatively low population density and reliance on personal vehicles shape the transportation landscape. The primary arteries for navigating the area are U.S. Highway 1 and Interstate 95 (I-95). These roadways provide crucial links to healthcare facilities, but their efficiency and accessibility are often impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours and seasonal influxes of tourists.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the overall health score. The nearest hospitals, such as Parrish Medical Center in Titusville and Health First's Palm Bay Hospital, are accessible via U.S. Highway 1 and I-95. However, depending on the specific location within Sharpes and the time of day, drive times can vary significantly. Residents living closer to U.S. Highway 1 might enjoy shorter commutes to Titusville, while those residing further inland might find I-95 a more direct route to Palm Bay.

Traffic congestion, particularly on U.S. Highway 1, can extend drive times, especially during the morning and evening commutes. This can be particularly challenging for individuals requiring urgent medical attention or those with chronic conditions needing frequent appointments. The overall health score must account for these potential delays and their impact on timely access to care.

Public transportation in Sharpes presents a more limited option for healthcare access. The Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT) operates bus routes within Brevard County, but the coverage in Sharpes is relatively sparse. Route 9, for example, might offer some service along U.S. Highway 1, but the frequency of buses and the distance between stops can pose significant challenges for residents, particularly those with mobility limitations.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor in evaluating the health score. SCAT strives to provide accessible transportation options, but the practical realities of navigating bus routes, especially for individuals with disabilities, can be complex. Transferring between routes, waiting in inclement weather, and the potential for long travel times can create barriers to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Sharpes can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Surge pricing, which can occur during periods of high demand, can also make ride-sharing a financially burdensome option for some residents.

The overall health score must consider the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services as a viable means of accessing healthcare. The ability to secure a ride quickly and affordably is crucial, especially for individuals with urgent medical needs or those who lack other transportation options.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a vital role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, but the response time and the distance to the nearest hospital can impact the health outcomes of patients.

NEMT services provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, such as doctor's visits, dialysis treatments, and physical therapy. These services are particularly crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. The availability, cost, and reliability of NEMT services significantly impact the overall health score.

The overall health score also needs to consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to Sharpes. While Parrish Medical Center in Titusville and Health First's Palm Bay Hospital are the primary hospitals serving the area, the distance and potential travel time to these facilities can vary depending on the location within Sharpes. The availability of urgent care centers, primary care physicians, and specialist clinics within a reasonable distance also contributes to the overall health score.

For those considering moving to Sharpes, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and healthcare access is essential. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical facilities is a critical factor in maintaining good health. The overall health score serves as a valuable tool for assessing the community's capacity to meet the healthcare needs of its residents.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Sharpes, Florida (ZIP Code 32959), is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While U.S. Highway 1 and I-95 provide the primary arteries for transportation, traffic congestion, and distance to healthcare facilities can impact drive times. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing availability can be inconsistent. Medical transport services play a crucial role, but their accessibility and affordability must be considered.

The overall health score should reflect the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Sharpes. For those considering moving to this community, a careful evaluation of these factors is essential to ensure their ability to maintain their health and well-being. The community's commitment to improving transportation options, expanding healthcare services, and supporting vulnerable populations will ultimately determine its overall health score and its attractiveness as a place to live and thrive. A robust and accessible transportation system is fundamental to ensuring that all residents of Sharpes can access the healthcare they need, when they need it, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community.