33428, Boca Raton, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33428, Boca Raton, Florida is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.63 percent of residents in 33428 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Boca Medical Center with a distance of 0.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33428

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 33428, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access, specifically considering transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provisions. This is vital information for anyone considering moving to Boca Raton, as proximity to healthcare facilities is a cornerstone of well-being.

ZIP Code 33428, encompassing significant portions of Boca Raton, Florida, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area boasts a blend of suburban residential communities and commercial zones, influencing the availability and efficiency of various transportation methods. Understanding these nuances is paramount to assessing the overall health score for residents.

**Drive Times: The Dominant Mode**

The automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare within 33428. Residents enjoy relatively convenient drive times to various medical facilities, although peak traffic hours can significantly impact these durations. The major thoroughfares, including Interstate 95 (I-95), the Florida's Turnpike, and US-441 (SR-7), are crucial for navigating the area.

Driving to Boca Raton Regional Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from central 33428 typically takes 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, especially on I-95, this commute can easily extend to 25-30 minutes. Similarly, accessing clinics and specialists along Glades Road or Yamato Road requires navigating these busy corridors. The Florida's Turnpike provides a faster, albeit tolled, alternative for north-south travel, while US-441 offers a more local route.

Residents further west in 33428 might experience slightly longer drive times, particularly to facilities located closer to the coast. The availability of ample parking at most medical facilities is a positive factor, though parking fees are common. Overall, the drive time component of the health score is moderately positive, contingent upon traffic conditions.

**Public Transit: Limited but Available**

Palm Beach County's public transit system, Palm Tran, offers bus routes that serve 33428. However, the coverage is not as extensive as in more densely populated areas, and frequency can be a concern. Several routes, including Route 91 (Glades Road) and Route 94 (Yamato Road), provide access to healthcare facilities.

The accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities (ADA) is a crucial factor in the health score. Palm Tran buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges. However, the wait times between buses and the potential need for transfers can make public transit a less desirable option for those with urgent medical needs or mobility limitations. Public transit’s role in healthcare access is limited, impacting the overall score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in 33428, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, potentially reducing the stress and inconvenience associated with driving, especially for individuals who cannot drive.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, also play a role in healthcare access. Companies like First Medical Transport and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the area, offering non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services are essential for patients who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical needs. The availability of these services significantly enhances the health score, especially for vulnerable populations.

**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Assessment**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 33428 is moderately positive. The convenience of driving, with its caveats regarding traffic, is the dominant factor. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options further enhances the score, offering alternative solutions for those who cannot drive or require specialized assistance.

However, the limitations of public transit coverage and frequency, particularly for those with mobility challenges, slightly detract from the score. The relative suburban sprawl of the area also contributes to the reliance on automobiles.

For individuals considering moving to Boca Raton, the health score suggests that healthcare access is generally good, but prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and preferences. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should thoroughly investigate the available routes and services.

Furthermore, the proximity of major healthcare facilities, like Boca Raton Regional Hospital, is a significant advantage. The presence of a wide range of medical specialists and clinics within a reasonable driving distance contributes positively to the overall health score.

In conclusion, while the transportation landscape in 33428 presents some challenges, particularly regarding public transit, the availability of driving, ride-sharing, and medical transport options ensures reasonable healthcare access for most residents. This balanced assessment provides a valuable perspective for those considering their health and transportation needs when choosing to reside in this vibrant Boca Raton zip code.