33594, Valrico, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33594, Valrico, Florida is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.13 percent of residents in 33594 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Brandon Hospital with a distance of 3.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in 33594 (Valrico, Florida)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare within ZIP code 33594, encompassing Valrico, Florida. It considers the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by transportation options, directly impacting residents' ability to receive timely and effective medical care. The score is not a single numerical value but a composite assessment, weighing factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering moving to Valrico, Florida, and evaluating their healthcare access.

The geographical layout of Valrico, nestled in Hillsborough County, dictates the primary transportation arteries used for accessing healthcare. The major thoroughfare is **Highway 60**, which provides east-west access to hospitals and medical facilities. **Interstate 75 (I-75)** offers north-south connections, while **Lithia Pinecrest Road** and **Valrico Road** serve as crucial local routes. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to critical medical appointments.

Drive times represent a significant component of the health score. The closest major hospital, **Brandon Regional Hospital**, is typically a 15-20 minute drive via Highway 60, barring traffic. Other hospitals, such as **Tampa General Hospital** and **AdventHealth Tampa**, located further west in Tampa, require a commute of 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-75 or the Selmon Expressway. Specialized clinics and urgent care facilities within Valrico offer quicker access for less critical needs. However, residents requiring specialized care or facing emergencies may experience longer travel times, potentially impacting health outcomes.

Public transportation presents a less favorable option for healthcare access within 33594. The **Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART)** provides bus service, but routes are limited and infrequent. Route 31, operating along Highway 60, offers a potential connection to Brandon and Tampa, but the frequency and travel times are not ideal for urgent medical needs. ADA accessibility is available on HART buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential transfer requirements can significantly extend travel times, making it less practical for many healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, like **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a more flexible transportation solution. Availability in Valrico is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5-15 minutes. This offers a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments, and may pose a barrier for some residents. The reliability of these services, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, should also be considered.

Specialized medical transport services are available for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. **Firstat Medical Transport** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** provide ambulance services for emergencies. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, such as **CareRide** and **LogistiCare**, offer scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments for eligible individuals. These services are crucial for ensuring healthcare access for those who cannot drive or use public transportation. However, eligibility requirements and scheduling limitations may affect their availability.

The availability of healthcare providers within Valrico itself contributes to the overall health score. Several primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities are located within the ZIP code, offering convenient access for routine medical needs. This reduces the need for extensive travel for many residents. However, the availability of specialized care may be limited, requiring travel to hospitals or clinics in surrounding areas.

The overall health score for 33594 reflects a mixed picture. While Valrico benefits from relatively short drive times to nearby hospitals and the presence of local healthcare providers, the limited public transportation options and the potential cost of ride-sharing pose challenges. The availability of specialized medical transport services mitigates some of these issues, particularly for individuals with specific needs.

For those considering moving to Valrico, the health score suggests a need for careful planning. Individuals should assess their transportation needs, consider the availability of healthcare providers that meet their specific requirements, and factor in the potential costs associated with transportation. The ideal scenario would involve a combination of personal vehicle use, ride-sharing when necessary, and utilizing local healthcare facilities for routine care.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in 33594 is moderately positive. The accessibility of healthcare is good, but there are many considerations, especially for people who don't have access to a personal vehicle. The community has the potential to improve the score by advocating for increased public transportation options and supporting initiatives that address transportation barriers to healthcare access. This will enhance the quality of life for all residents and make Valrico an even more attractive place to live.