33407, West Palm Beach, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33407, West Palm Beach, Florida is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.04 percent of residents in 33407 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's Medical Center with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33407

Considering a move to West Palm Beach, Florida, and specifically ZIP code 33407? Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of medical facilities from this location, focusing on transportation options. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. This score is not a definitive medical assessment but a gauge of the ease with which one can reach medical care.

The Overall Health Score for 33407 is **Moderate**, indicating a reasonable, yet not optimal, level of healthcare accessibility. While various transportation options exist, challenges like traffic congestion and limited public transit coverage can impact the ease and speed of reaching medical appointments.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in West Palm Beach. Residents of 33407 will find themselves relying on several key roadways. The primary artery is **Okeechobee Boulevard**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Travel times along Okeechobee Boulevard can vary significantly depending on the time of day. Rush hour, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can lead to considerable delays.

Accessing healthcare facilities located south of 33407 often involves navigating **Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard** or **Australian Avenue**. These roads, while offering direct routes, are also prone to congestion. Heading north, the **Florida’s Turnpike** provides a faster route to hospitals and specialists, but tolls are a consideration.

For those seeking more specialized care, the **Interstate 95 (I-95)** is crucial. It offers access to hospitals in Palm Beach Gardens and Boca Raton, though traffic on I-95 can be notoriously heavy, especially during peak hours. The time spent navigating these roadways directly affects the Overall Health Score, as longer travel times can deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention.

**Public Transportation Options**

Palm Beach County's public transportation system, Palm Tran, offers bus routes serving 33407. The availability of public transportation is a crucial factor in healthcare access, particularly for those who do not drive or cannot afford ride-sharing services. Several bus routes traverse the area, including routes **1**, **2**, **3**, **4**, **10**, and **40**.

These routes provide connections to various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor. The Overall Health Score reflects the limitations of public transit, acknowledging that it may not be the most convenient option for all residents.

Palm Tran strives to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, and designated seating is available. Real-time tracking through the Palm Tran mobile app helps riders plan their journeys. Despite these efforts, the coverage area and frequency of service can still pose challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in West Palm Beach and offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. The Overall Health Score considers the availability of these services as a positive factor. Ride-sharing provides on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, offering flexibility and eliminating the need for parking.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some residents. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make these services unaffordable. The Overall Health Score acknowledges this financial consideration.

Medical transport services, such as First Medical Transportation, are also available for individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. The presence of these services enhances the Overall Health Score, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Access**

Several healthcare facilities are within a reasonable distance of 33407. Good Samaritan Medical Center, located on Flagler Drive, is a major hospital easily accessible via Okeechobee Boulevard. St. Mary's Medical Center, further south on 45th Street, is another major hospital, accessible via Australian Avenue or I-95.

Numerous clinics and doctor's offices are also located within the area, offering a range of medical services. The Overall Health Score takes into account the proximity of these facilities, recognizing that the availability of local healthcare providers is a critical factor in healthcare access. The ease of reaching these facilities via the discussed transportation methods directly impacts the score.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score**

The Overall Health Score considers several factors, including drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of medical transport services. The score also reflects the impact of traffic congestion, the cost of transportation options, and the frequency of public transit routes.

While the presence of various transportation options is positive, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the potential for traffic delays all contribute to the moderate rating. The score also considers the specific needs of individuals, such as those with disabilities or limited mobility.

**Conclusion**

For individuals considering moving to West Palm Beach, ZIP code 33407, the Overall Health Score provides a valuable assessment of healthcare access. While a range of transportation options exists, the score highlights the importance of careful consideration. The moderate rating suggests that while healthcare is accessible, residents should be prepared to navigate traffic, consider the cost of transportation, and potentially rely on multiple modes of transport to reach their medical appointments.

The presence of ride-sharing, medical transport, and readily available healthcare facilities are positive factors. The limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion are factors that influence the Overall Health Score. When making a decision about moving, individuals should consider their personal needs, financial resources, and the importance of easy access to healthcare.