33572, Apollo Beach, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33572, Apollo Beach, Florida is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.06 percent of residents in 33572 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida South Shore Hospital with a distance of 4.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Apollo Beach (ZIP Code 33572)

The quest for optimal health is a journey, and the ease with which residents can access healthcare is a crucial element of that journey. In Apollo Beach, Florida (ZIP Code 33572), the ability to navigate the transportation landscape directly impacts overall health. This write-up provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for those residing in this vibrant coastal community. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Apollo Beach, as it offers a clear picture of the practicalities of obtaining medical care.

The score will be based on several factors: drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and efficiency of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options. Each factor will be assessed, weighed, and integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure.

**Driving Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Apollo Beach residents is the automobile. The road network plays a vital role in determining healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare connecting Apollo Beach to surrounding areas is **U.S. Highway 41**, also known as the Tamiami Trail. This road provides access to healthcare facilities located north in Tampa and south in Ruskin. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Heading north on **U.S. 41**, residents can reach Tampa General Hospital (TGH) in approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This facility is a major trauma center and offers a wide array of specialized medical services. Alternatively, **Interstate 75 (I-75)**, accessible via **Big Bend Road**, offers a faster route to Tampa but is also prone to heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. The drive to TGH via I-75 could take anywhere from 25-40 minutes.

Southward, **U.S. 41** provides access to facilities in Ruskin and Sun City Center. South Bay Hospital in Sun City Center is a closer option, typically reachable within 15-20 minutes. This hospital provides a range of services, including emergency care, general surgery, and cardiology. The shorter drive time to South Bay Hospital is a significant advantage for residents.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Apollo Beach is limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides bus services, but the routes serving Apollo Beach are infrequent and do not offer direct access to many major healthcare facilities.

**Route 61LX** is the primary bus route serving Apollo Beach. It connects to the Brandon area, but it does not directly connect to any major hospitals. The frequency of this route is limited, with buses typically running every hour or two during peak times and even less frequently during off-peak hours. This makes relying on public transportation for healthcare appointments a time-consuming and potentially unreliable option. The lack of weekend service further compounds the problem.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on HART buses is generally good. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route options and infrequent service still pose challenges for those who rely on public transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Apollo Beach and offer a more flexible transportation option than public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available. These services are crucial for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that prevent them from driving or using public transportation. Several companies, including American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers, offer ambulance services. NEMT services, which typically transport patients to and from medical appointments in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, are available through various companies. These services can be expensive, and prior arrangements are often required.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Apollo Beach (ZIP Code 33572) is moderate. While the availability of driving options provides reasonable access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion introduce challenges. The limited public transportation options and the cost of ride-sharing services further restrict healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or with financial constraints.

The drive times to major hospitals like TGH can be significant, especially during peak hours. The shorter drive times to facilities like South Bay Hospital provide a more accessible option. The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing services add to the challenges.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize traffic management:** Local authorities should focus on traffic management strategies to alleviate congestion on U.S. 41 and I-75, reducing drive times to healthcare facilities.
* **Expand public transportation:** Increasing the frequency and coverage of HART bus routes, including direct routes to major hospitals, would improve healthcare access for residents without personal vehicles.
* **Support ride-sharing initiatives:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments, particularly for low-income residents.
* **Enhance medical transport services:** Promote awareness of available medical transport services and ensure adequate capacity to meet the needs of the community.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Apollo Beach is influenced by a complex interplay of transportation factors. While driving provides reasonable access, the limited public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and potential traffic congestion present challenges. For individuals considering moving to Apollo Beach, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial. By addressing these transportation challenges, the community can enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health and well-being of its residents.