33579, Riverview, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33579, Riverview, Florida is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.45 percent of residents in 33579 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida South Shore Hospital with a distance of 6.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33579 (Riverview, Florida)

ZIP Code 33579, encompassing the vibrant community of Riverview, Florida, presents a unique tapestry of healthcare access challenges and opportunities. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to assessing their overall health and well-being. This comprehensive analysis delves into the intricacies of transportation options, examining drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport to provide an "Overall Health Score" for this dynamic area.

The score reflects the ease with which residents can access crucial healthcare services, from routine check-ups to emergency care. Factors considered include the proximity of medical facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, the availability of specialized services, and the affordability of reaching these essential resources. This assessment aims to inform prospective residents considering moving to Riverview and empower current residents to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation in Riverview is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the road network and traffic conditions. The primary arteries for healthcare access are **US-301**, **I-75**, and **SR-674**. These roadways connect Riverview to a network of hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical facilities.

Driving to Tampa General Hospital, a major tertiary care center, typically involves navigating **I-75 North**, which can take between 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, especially during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend travel times. Similarly, accessing Brandon Regional Hospital, a closer option, involves using **US-301** or **SR-674** and can range from 15 to 30 minutes. Smaller clinics and urgent care centers within Riverview, such as those along **Big Bend Road** and **Gibsonton Drive**, offer more immediate access, with drive times generally under 15 minutes.

The health score acknowledges the importance of timely access to care. Long drive times, particularly during emergencies, can negatively impact health outcomes. The score will reflect the potential for delays caused by traffic congestion, accidents, and road closures, which are common in the rapidly growing Tampa Bay area.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Developing Network**

Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) provides public transportation options within the county, including limited service in Riverview. Several bus routes, including **Route 30** and **Route 39**, serve portions of the ZIP code, connecting residents to healthcare facilities and other essential destinations. However, the frequency of these routes is often limited, particularly during evenings and weekends.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor in the health score. HART aims to provide accessible services, with ramps, lifts, and designated seating on all buses. However, the geographical coverage of the public transit network in Riverview is not extensive, leaving many residents without convenient access to healthcare via public transit.

The score considers the limitations of public transportation. Long wait times, infrequent service, and the need for transfers can make public transit a less attractive option for those seeking medical care, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those needing urgent attention.

**Ride-Sharing: Convenience and Cost Considerations**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation solution in Riverview. These services provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, offering a convenient option, especially for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive.

The health score considers the cost of ride-sharing, which can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for some residents. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase the cost. The availability of ride-sharing services, particularly in areas with limited public transit options, is a positive factor in the overall health score. However, the cost factor must be carefully weighed.

**Medical Transport: Specialized Support for Specific Needs**

For individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, specialized medical transport services are essential. These services, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide safe and reliable transport to and from healthcare appointments.

The health score considers the availability and responsiveness of these specialized services. Ambulance services are readily available in Riverview, with rapid response times in case of emergencies. NEMT providers, such as First Transit and MTM, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, including dialysis treatments, physical therapy, and doctor's visits. The score will reflect the ease of accessing these services, the cost, and the reliability of the providers.

**Overall Health Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 33579 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance is generally good, challenges exist regarding transportation. Traffic congestion, limited public transit options, and the cost of ride-sharing can create barriers to accessing healthcare for some residents.

The score will be influenced by the ongoing development of the transportation infrastructure in Riverview. As the area continues to grow, improvements to road networks, increased public transit frequency, and expanded ride-sharing availability could positively impact the score. The availability and affordability of specialized medical transport services are also critical factors.

Prospective residents considering moving to Riverview should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. The health score will provide a valuable tool for assessing the overall accessibility of healthcare and making informed decisions. The score will also serve as a benchmark for future improvements in transportation and healthcare access, ensuring that Riverview remains a healthy and thriving community.