33521, Coleman, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33521, Coleman, Florida is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.79 percent of residents in 33521 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Uf Health Leesburg Hospital with a distance of 11.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Coleman, FL (ZIP Code 33521)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. This assessment delves into the landscape of healthcare accessibility for residents of Coleman, Florida (ZIP code 33521), analyzing the available transportation options and their impact on overall health. This is a critical consideration for anyone moving to Coleman, as reliable access to medical services is paramount.

Coleman, nestled in Sumter County, presents a unique challenge. While the charm of a small town is undeniable, the relative isolation from major metropolitan centers necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation logistics when it comes to healthcare. The following evaluation provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' based on the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Coleman is, unsurprisingly, personal vehicles. The town's layout and surrounding infrastructure heavily favor driving. For residents, the journey to healthcare often begins on County Road 470, the main artery connecting Coleman to the wider region. This road provides access to the Florida Turnpike (I-75) and US-301, the two major highways that serve the area.

The drive time to the nearest major hospitals, such as UF Health The Villages Hospital, can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Coleman. This drive generally involves navigating County Road 470 to the Florida Turnpike. The Florida Turnpike, a toll road, offers a relatively quick and efficient route, but the cost of tolls must be factored into the overall expense of healthcare access.

Alternatively, residents can opt to travel along US-301, a more direct but often slower route. This option is particularly relevant for accessing healthcare facilities in Wildwood or Ocala. The drive time to these locations can vary between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but periodic maintenance and potential traffic incidents can impact travel times. The presence of several traffic lights along County Road 470 and US-301 can also contribute to delays, especially during rush hour or when schools are in session.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Coleman are extremely limited. Sumter County does offer a public transit service, but its routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs. The service primarily focuses on providing transportation within the county, with limited connections to surrounding areas.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a positive aspect of the public transit system, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the service. However, the infrequent schedule and limited route coverage make it an impractical option for many residents seeking timely healthcare access. The lack of robust public transportation is a significant factor impacting the overall health score for Coleman residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas of Coleman. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and Senior Care Transportation offer these services. While these options provide a valuable service, they can be expensive and may require advance booking, limiting their spontaneity.

**Overall Health Score and Implications:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Coleman, FL (33521) is moderately impacted by the transportation infrastructure. While personal vehicles offer the most reliable and convenient option, the limited availability of public transit, the potential cost of ride-sharing, and the expense of medical transportation services create challenges for some residents.

The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and maintenance. Individuals without access to a vehicle may face significant barriers to healthcare access. The lack of robust public transportation options particularly affects seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a personal vehicle or ride-sharing services.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, while generally manageable, can still pose a challenge for individuals requiring urgent medical attention. The potential for traffic delays and the distance to major hospitals could impact the speed of care delivery in emergency situations.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Coleman:**

For individuals considering moving to Coleman, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs and evaluate their ability to access medical services. Factors to consider include:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is highly recommended.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Consider the distance to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
* **Financial Resources:** Factor in the cost of transportation, including fuel, tolls, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.
* **Health Conditions:** Individuals with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available transportation options.

Investing in a reliable vehicle and budgeting for transportation costs are essential for ensuring access to healthcare in Coleman. Exploring the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options can also be beneficial.

The community could benefit from exploring opportunities to improve healthcare access, such as expanding public transit routes, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation, or supporting the development of telemedicine services. Enhancements to the transportation infrastructure would undoubtedly improve the 'Overall Health Score' for Coleman residents and make the community more attractive for those seeking a healthy and accessible living environment.