33486, Boca Raton, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33486, Boca Raton, Florida is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.04 percent of residents in 33486 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Boca Raton Regional Hospital with a distance of 1.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33486

Considering a move to Boca Raton, Florida, within the 33486 ZIP code? Understanding the ease of access to healthcare is paramount for overall well-being. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the accessibility of medical facilities and painting a comprehensive picture of the "Overall Health Score" for this area. The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical appointments, considering various transportation options.

The 33486 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Boca Raton, presents a mixed bag regarding healthcare accessibility. While the area boasts a high concentration of medical professionals and facilities, the efficiency of getting there hinges on several factors, primarily **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** within and around 33486 are the Florida's Turnpike, Interstate 95 (I-95), and US-1. The Turnpike provides a swift north-south corridor, while I-95 offers a parallel route, often experiencing heavier traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. US-1, a more local road, offers access to numerous businesses and medical offices, but can be slower due to traffic lights and pedestrian activity.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly based on location within the ZIP code and the specific medical provider. For example, accessing Boca Raton Regional Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from the western reaches of 33486 might involve a 15-20 minute drive via Palmetto Park Road or Glades Road, depending on traffic conditions. Conversely, residents closer to the hospital, near Federal Highway (US-1), could reach it within a 5-10 minute drive. The ease of **healthcare access** is directly influenced by traffic flow on these major roads.

During rush hour, the commute times can easily double, emphasizing the importance of considering traffic patterns when planning appointments. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone **moving to Boca Raton** and prioritizing healthcare access. Road conditions, construction projects, and accidents can further impact drive times, necessitating careful planning and the use of real-time traffic applications.

**Public Transit Options:**

Palm Tran, the county's public transit system, provides bus service throughout Boca Raton, including the 33486 ZIP code. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a more affordable **transportation** alternative to driving. However, the frequency of service and the potential for longer travel times can be significant drawbacks.

Specific routes serving 33486 include, but are not limited to, Route 91, which travels along Glades Road, providing access to various medical offices and the Boca Raton Regional Hospital. Route 88, which runs along Federal Highway (US-1), offers another crucial link to healthcare providers. Route 1, running along Federal Highway, and route 94, along Palmetto Park Road, are also vital for healthcare access.

Palm Tran buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of these features and their functionality should be verified prior to travel. The schedule adherence of Palm Tran can vary, and the necessity of transfers can add to the overall travel time. The system is constantly evolving, and it is important to check the Palm Tran website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient and readily available **transportation** option for residents of 33486. These services can be particularly beneficial for those who do not drive or prefer not to navigate traffic. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it generally provides a more flexible alternative to public transit.

Beyond ride-sharing, specialized medical **transportation** services cater to individuals with specific needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility. Companies such as Firstat Nursing Services and Care Ride offer non-emergency medical transport, while others specialize in transporting patients to and from dialysis appointments and other medical treatments.

The availability of these services can significantly improve **healthcare access** for individuals who may otherwise struggle to reach medical appointments. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies, requiring careful consideration of individual needs and financial resources.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in 33486 is moderately positive. While the area benefits from a concentration of medical providers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can negatively impact accessibility. Public transit offers a more affordable alternative, but it can be less convenient. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide valuable options, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

Individuals **moving to Boca Raton** within the 33486 ZIP code should carefully consider their individual **transportation** needs and preferences. Factors such as proximity to medical facilities, reliance on public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services should be weighed when assessing the ease of **healthcare access**. Planning for potential traffic delays and utilizing real-time traffic information can significantly improve the efficiency of reaching medical appointments.

The Overall Health Score is not a static number. It is subject to change based on infrastructure improvements, changes in public transit service, and the evolution of ride-sharing and medical transport options. Staying informed about these developments is crucial for maintaining optimal **healthcare access** and overall well-being. Understanding the nuances of the **transportation** landscape is key to a successful transition and a healthy lifestyle in Boca Raton.