33647, Tampa, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33647, Tampa, Florida is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.01 percent of residents in 33647 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Wesley Chapel with a distance of 4.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33647

This comprehensive analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 33647, focusing on the critical aspect of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. Understanding the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities is paramount to a community's well-being, especially for individuals considering moving to Tampa. This write-up delves into the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, evaluating their accessibility, convenience, and potential challenges.

The primary factor influencing the health score in 33647 is the reliance on personal vehicles. Residents often navigate the bustling roadways to access medical care. The major arteries, including **Interstate 75 (I-75)**, **Bruce B. Downs Boulevard**, and **Cross Creek Boulevard**, serve as the primary routes. However, these roads are prone to heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours, which can significantly extend drive times and increase stress levels, ultimately impacting health outcomes.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within and outside the ZIP code are variable. For example, a visit to AdventHealth Tampa, located just south of 33647, might take 15-20 minutes in light traffic. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double. Similarly, reaching facilities further afield, such as Tampa General Hospital or Moffitt Cancer Center, could involve a 30-45 minute drive, contingent on traffic conditions along **I-275** or **Fletcher Avenue**. The unpredictability of these commutes adds a layer of complexity to healthcare planning, especially for those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments.

Public transportation offers an alternative, yet its impact on the health score in 33647 is somewhat limited. The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides bus services, but the routes serving this area are often infrequent and may not directly connect to all medical facilities. Route 31, for instance, runs along Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, offering a potential link to some clinics and hospitals. Route 39, while offering a more direct route, may not be ideal.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. HART strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by equipping buses with ramps and offering paratransit services. However, the availability and convenience of these services can vary, potentially creating barriers to healthcare access for those with mobility limitations. The need for improved public transit infrastructure and expanded route coverage is evident to enhance the health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, present another option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who find driving challenging. These services offer on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical visits. Moreover, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand, potentially causing delays or cancellations.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like First Choice Medical Transportation and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring assistance with mobility or those who are unable to drive themselves. However, these services often come with a higher price tag than standard ride-sharing or public transit.

The overall health score for transportation and healthcare access in 33647 is moderately impacted by the availability of multiple options. While personal vehicles provide the most direct route, the traffic congestion on major highways and roads can be a significant drawback. Public transit offers an alternative, but its limited route coverage and frequency can pose challenges. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation provide additional options, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors.

Improving the health score requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transit infrastructure, expanding route coverage, and increasing service frequency would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs and subsidies for low-income individuals could also help mitigate the cost barrier. Encouraging the development of medical facilities within the ZIP code would shorten drive times and reduce reliance on transportation.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services can play a crucial role in improving healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited transportation options. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits and minimizing transportation-related challenges.

In conclusion, the health score in 33647 is directly influenced by the transportation landscape. While multiple options exist, challenges related to traffic congestion, public transit limitations, and the cost of ride-sharing services can impact healthcare access. A concerted effort to improve public transit, promote telehealth services, and encourage the development of medical facilities within the community is crucial to enhancing the overall health score and ensuring that all residents have convenient and affordable access to quality healthcare. For those considering moving to Tampa, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options when choosing a neighborhood.