33712, Saint Petersburg, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33712, Saint Petersburg, Florida is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.56 percent of residents in 33712 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayfront Health St Petersburg with a distance of 2.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33712

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 33712, focusing on the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access. Understanding the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities is paramount to their well-being, especially when considering a potential move to Saint Petersburg. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation availability, painting a comprehensive picture of the community’s healthcare accessibility.

The 33712 ZIP Code, nestled within the vibrant city of Saint Petersburg, Florida, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its proximity to downtown and the Gulf Coast offers both advantages and challenges. The overall health score is a composite, taking into account the various modes of transportation available, their reliability, and the time required to reach essential medical services. This score, therefore, reflects the degree to which residents can readily obtain the care they need.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. The efficiency of this mode significantly impacts the health score. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 275 (I-275) are crucial arteries, connecting 33712 to numerous hospitals and clinics. However, rush hour traffic on I-275, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can dramatically increase drive times. The speed limits on I-275 are typically 65 mph, but congestion can reduce speeds to a crawl.

Access to healthcare facilities is also heavily influenced by the availability of local roads. Roads like 4th Street North, 9th Street North, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street North provide direct routes to medical centers. These roads, while offering more direct access, are often subject to traffic lights and local congestion. The average drive time to the nearest hospital, typically Bayfront Health St. Petersburg, can range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on the time of day and the specific location within the ZIP code.

The presence of arterial roads such as Gandy Boulevard and Roosevelt Boulevard further extends healthcare accessibility. These roads provide access to facilities located in neighboring ZIP codes and cities. However, they also introduce the potential for longer travel times, especially during peak hours. The overall drive time component of the health score considers these variables, factoring in both distance and potential delays.

**Public Transit Evaluation:**

Public transit plays a vital role, especially for those without personal vehicles. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) provides bus services throughout the region, significantly impacting the health score. Several PSTA routes serve the 33712 area, including the frequent Route 18, which travels along 4th Street North, and Route 9, which traverses Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street North.

These routes connect residents to major hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. However, the frequency of service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Waiting times can be substantial, potentially adding significant time to the commute. The accessibility of bus stops is also a consideration. Are they well-lit, easily accessible, and sheltered?

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of PSTA buses is a critical component of the health score. All PSTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can access healthcare facilities. The availability of real-time bus tracking through the PSTA app provides convenience and predictability, enhancing the overall transit experience. The transit component of the health score weighs these factors, assessing the reliability, accessibility, and convenience of public transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times, especially during off-peak hours. Their availability and affordability are critical factors in the health score. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make ride-sharing less accessible for some.

Medical transportation services, like MedRide and CareRide, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. They can provide door-to-door service, making healthcare access easier for those who need it most. The availability, cost, and reliability of these specialized services are factored into the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of 33712, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderately positive. The presence of major roadways like I-275 and local roads such as 4th Street North offers relatively quick access to medical facilities for those who drive. The PSTA bus system provides a viable alternative, particularly for those without personal vehicles, with ADA-compliant features. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation options further enhance accessibility.

However, the score is tempered by the potential for traffic congestion on I-275 and local roads, particularly during peak hours. The frequency of PSTA bus service, especially during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor. The affordability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can also pose a challenge for some residents.

When considering moving to Saint Petersburg, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The 33712 ZIP Code offers a range of options, but the optimal choice will depend on individual circumstances and preferences. The overall health score, therefore, serves as a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access within this community. The score reflects the dynamic interplay of transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.