33707, Saint Petersburg, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33707, Saint Petersburg, Florida is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.74 percent of residents in 33707 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Pasadena Hospital with a distance of 1.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33707

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which one can access medical services significantly impacts health outcomes. This report provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for residents of ZIP Code 33707 in Saint Petersburg, Florida, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering various modes of transportation. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals and families contemplating **moving to Saint Petersburg**, as it directly addresses a vital quality-of-life factor.

The 'Overall Health Score' is a composite metric, weighing factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and specialized medical transport services. Each component is assessed and assigned a score, culminating in an overall rating reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare providers within and around the 33707 ZIP code. The score will be presented in a manner that allows for a clear understanding of the existing conditions and potential areas for improvement.

**Drive Time Analysis**

The primary mode of transportation for many residents in 33707 is personal vehicles. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the proximity of healthcare facilities and the congestion levels on the roadways. Major thoroughfares like **Interstate 275** (I-275) and **US Highway 19** (US-19) are critical arteries for healthcare access.

Driving to **Bayfront Health St. Petersburg**, a major hospital, from various points within 33707 can range from a short 5-minute drive to upwards of 20 minutes during peak traffic hours. The **Pinellas Bayway** (SR-682) offers a direct route for those in the southern portions of the ZIP code, but its toll can be a consideration. Similarly, accessing clinics and specialists located along US-19 can be relatively quick, but heavy traffic, especially during rush hour, can significantly extend travel times.

The **Howard Frankland Bridge** (I-275) can be a bottleneck for those needing to access healthcare facilities in Tampa, adding considerable travel time and stress, particularly for those with urgent medical needs. The availability of ample parking at healthcare facilities is also a factor, as limited parking can add to the overall time and frustration of a healthcare visit.

**Public Transit Assessment**

Public transit provides an essential alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those seeking to avoid traffic congestion. The **Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA)** operates several bus routes serving the 33707 area. Routes like the **SunRunner**, a bus rapid transit (BRT) service, offer a dedicated lane and frequent service along the US-19 corridor, potentially reducing travel times to healthcare facilities located along this route.

Other key routes, such as **Route 18** and **Route 52**, provide connections to various healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. The PSTA is committed to **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** compliance, ensuring that all buses are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes features like ramps, lifts, and designated seating.

However, the effectiveness of public transit depends on several factors. The frequency of service, the distance between bus stops and healthcare facilities, and the overall travel time compared to driving are all critical considerations. While PSTA provides a valuable service, it may not be the most convenient option for all residents, especially those with mobility limitations or those needing to reach facilities located outside of the main bus routes.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Evaluation**

Ride-share services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation to and from healthcare facilities, often at a reasonable cost. The availability of ride-share services in the 33707 area is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can impact affordability.

Specialized medical transport services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with mobility. Several companies, including **CareRide** and **First Medical Transportation**, operate in the Saint Petersburg area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often covered by insurance or Medicaid, making them a viable option for those who qualify.

The availability and reliability of these services are crucial. Delays in pick-up times or limited availability can create significant challenges for individuals with medical appointments or those needing urgent care. The cost of these services, especially for those without insurance coverage, can also be a barrier to access.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion**

The 'Overall Health Score' for commuting to healthcare in 33707 reflects a mixed picture. Drive times, while generally manageable, are subject to traffic congestion, particularly on major highways. Public transit offers a valuable alternative, but its effectiveness is limited by route coverage, frequency, and overall travel times. Ride-share services provide on-demand transportation, but cost and availability can be factors. Medical transport services cater to specific needs but are subject to availability and insurance coverage.

Considering these factors, the 'Overall Health Score' for 33707 is assessed as **Moderate**. While residents have multiple transportation options for accessing healthcare, each option has limitations. Traffic congestion, the need for improved public transit frequency and coverage, and the cost of ride-share and medical transport services are areas for potential improvement. For those **moving to Saint Petersburg**, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.

The 33707 ZIP code offers a decent level of **healthcare access**, but improvements in transportation infrastructure and service offerings could significantly enhance the 'Overall Health Score' and improve the well-being of its residents. Further investment in public transit, the expansion of ride-share services, and the promotion of medical transport options are crucial steps toward ensuring that all residents have convenient and reliable access to the healthcare they need.