33170, Miami, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33170, Miami, Florida is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.56 percent of residents in 33170 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Homestead Hospital with a distance of 5.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33170

Navigating the intricate web of healthcare access in Miami-Dade County, particularly within the 33170 ZIP code, demands a keen understanding of transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by the region's infrastructure, public transit, and ride-sharing services. It's designed to inform those contemplating **moving to Miami** and prioritizing **healthcare access**.

The 33170 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Kendall and Sunset, is characterized by suburban sprawl. This geographic layout significantly influences the **transportation** landscape and, consequently, the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services. The score will reflect the relative strengths and weaknesses of each mode of transport, offering a nuanced perspective on the realities of healthcare accessibility.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

The primary arteries of 33170, including the Florida Turnpike (SR 821), the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826), and US-1, are crucial for accessing medical facilities. Drive times are heavily influenced by peak-hour traffic congestion, which can dramatically extend travel durations. For instance, a trip from the heart of 33170 to Baptist Hospital of Miami, a major medical center, can take anywhere from 15 minutes during off-peak hours to over 45 minutes during rush hour, particularly along the Palmetto Expressway.

The Florida Turnpike offers a faster, albeit toll-based, route to many hospitals. US-1, while a more direct route to facilities like Jackson South Community Hospital, is often plagued by stop-and-go traffic. Secondary roads, such as Kendall Drive (SW 88th Street) and SW 104th Street, provide alternative routes, but their efficiency is often compromised by traffic lights and local congestion.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Bus and Rail Systems:**

Miami-Dade County's public transit system, operated by Miami-Dade Transit (MDT), offers bus and Metrorail services. The Metrorail, while not directly serving all areas of 33170, provides a valuable connection to major medical centers located near its stations. The Dadeland South Metrorail station is a key hub, offering connections to the bus network.

Several bus routes serve the 33170 area, including routes 88 (Kendall Drive), 57 (Sunset Drive), and 288 (Coral Reef MAX). These routes provide crucial links to hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. However, bus travel times can be significantly longer than driving, especially during peak hours. The frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, can also pose a challenge.

The MDT system is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. All Metrorail stations and buses are equipped with features like ramps, elevators, and priority seating to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This is a vital consideration for residents with mobility limitations, impacting their ability to access healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly prevalent in Miami-Dade County. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for accessing urgent care facilities or appointments at medical offices. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide specialized services for individuals requiring assistance. These services often include door-to-door transportation, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and trained personnel. They are particularly valuable for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance with medical equipment. The availability and cost of these services vary, so research is vital.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 33170 reflects the complex interplay of transportation options.

**Strengths:**

* **Accessibility to Major Roads:** Proximity to major highways like the Florida Turnpike and the Palmetto Expressway allows for relatively quick access to healthcare facilities, especially during off-peak hours.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The presence of Uber and Lyft offers a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles.
* **ADA Compliance:** The MDT system's commitment to ADA compliance ensures that individuals with disabilities can access public transit.

**Weaknesses:**

* **Traffic Congestion:** Peak-hour traffic on major roads significantly increases travel times, potentially delaying access to medical care.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** Bus routes can be slow and infrequent, particularly during off-peak hours, and may not directly serve all areas of the ZIP code.
* **Cost of Ride-Sharing:** Surge pricing can make ride-sharing services expensive, especially for frequent medical appointments.

**Overall Score:**

Considering these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 33170 is **Moderate**. While the area offers access to major medical facilities and ride-sharing options, the challenges posed by traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit can hinder timely access to care.

**Recommendations:**

* **Plan for Traffic:** Factor in significant travel time, especially during peak hours, when scheduling medical appointments.
* **Explore Public Transit:** Utilize the MDT system, especially the Metrorail, to connect to major medical centers.
* **Consider Ride-Sharing:** Use ride-sharing services for convenience, but be mindful of potential surge pricing.
* **Research Medical Transportation:** If needed, investigate medical transportation services for specialized needs.
* **Research Locations:** When **moving to Miami**, research proximity to healthcare facilities and consider locations with better access to transportation options.

The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic metric. As Miami-Dade County invests in infrastructure improvements and expands public transit options, the score can improve. For those prioritizing **healthcare access**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about where to live and how to navigate the healthcare system.