33637, Tampa, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33637, Tampa, Florida is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.43 percent of residents in 33637 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tampa Va Medical Center with a distance of 4.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33637

This analysis delves into the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 33637, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. A vital component of well-being, healthcare access is significantly influenced by transportation options. This report examines the various modes of transport available, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, considering their impact on residents' ability to reach essential medical appointments and services. We'll assess the ease of travel, factoring in drive times, route availability, and accessibility features, ultimately painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare transportation landscape within this specific Tampa area.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 33637 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area is largely suburban, with a sprawling layout that necessitates vehicular transport for most errands, including medical appointments. Major thoroughfares like **Interstate 275** (I-275) and **Veterans Expressway** (SR 589) are crucial arteries, facilitating travel to major hospitals and medical centers. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Traveling south on I-275 offers access to downtown Tampa, where several prominent healthcare facilities are located. **Tampa General Hospital**, a Level I trauma center, is a key destination. Drive times can vary dramatically, typically ranging from 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The Veterans Expressway provides a faster route to the north, offering access to hospitals in the Westchase and Citrus Park areas.

Navigating local roads like **Hillsborough Avenue** and **Linebaugh Avenue** can be challenging, especially during rush hour. These roads are often congested, adding to commute times and potentially delaying access to urgent medical care. While these local roads offer direct access to smaller clinics and urgent care centers, the larger, more specialized facilities typically require travel on major highways.

Public transportation, primarily through the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART), presents an alternative, though its effectiveness in 33637 is limited. Several HART bus routes serve the area, including **Route 15** (serving Hillsborough Avenue), **Route 30** (serving Linebaugh Avenue), and **Route 34** (serving Waters Avenue). These routes provide connections to downtown Tampa and other key destinations.

However, the frequency of these buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent. The routes themselves often involve multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time compared to driving. Furthermore, while HART strives to provide ADA-accessible services, the extended travel times and potential for transfers can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. This can severely impact healthcare access for those who rely on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services are readily available in 33637, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources. The availability of ride-sharing services is also subject to driver availability, which may be limited during off-peak hours or in certain areas.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like **First Medical Transportation** and **Medicaid Transportation** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility, such as those using wheelchairs or walkers. These services usually require pre-booking and can be limited in scope, primarily serving specific healthcare providers or appointments.

The overall health score for 33637, concerning healthcare access, is moderate. While the area offers access to major highways and the convenience of ride-sharing, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limitations of public transit, creates potential challenges. The drive times to major hospitals can be significant, particularly during peak hours. The limited frequency and route coverage of HART buses, combined with the cost of ride-sharing, present barriers for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Tampa and specifically to 33637, understanding these transportation factors is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in the potential for increased commute times to healthcare facilities, the cost of transportation, and the availability of alternative options. The choice of location within 33637 can also influence healthcare access. Proximity to major roads, bus routes, and ride-sharing availability should be considered.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in 33637 is a complex equation. While the area offers access to major healthcare facilities, the transportation infrastructure presents both opportunities and challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing all contribute to the overall assessment. Residents must carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances when evaluating healthcare access within this Tampa ZIP code. Further investment in public transportation, specifically increasing route frequency and coverage, could significantly improve the overall health score for residents of 33637. This would enhance healthcare access, promoting a healthier community and making the area more attractive for those considering moving to Tampa.