33764, Clearwater, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33764, Clearwater, Florida is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.64 percent of residents in 33764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Largo Hospital with a distance of 3.78 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33764

This comprehensive analysis evaluates the ease of accessing healthcare within the 33764 ZIP code, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation accessibility. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering valuable insights for residents and those considering moving to Clearwater, Florida. The goal is to paint a clear picture of healthcare access, a crucial factor in overall well-being.

The 33764 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Clearwater, Florida, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the urban sprawl of the Tampa Bay area creates a complex web of transportation options. The score will reflect the realities of navigating this environment, impacting the ease with which residents can reach doctors, hospitals, and specialized medical facilities.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Automobile travel remains a primary mode of transportation for healthcare access. The efficiency of this mode significantly impacts the health score. Major thoroughfares like US-19, a bustling north-south artery, and the Bayside Bridge, connecting Clearwater to St. Petersburg, are crucial for reaching various healthcare providers.

Drive times fluctuate considerably depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Peak hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can dramatically increase travel times. The density of commercial establishments along US-19 contributes to congestion, while the Bayside Bridge, though efficient, can experience backups during rush hour.

Accessing Morton Plant Hospital, a major healthcare provider in Clearwater, from within the 33764 ZIP code generally involves a relatively short drive. However, reaching specialist clinics or hospitals in neighboring cities, such as Tampa General Hospital, necessitates navigating the complex network of Interstate 275.

The presence of smaller, local clinics within the ZIP code offers convenience for routine checkups and minor medical needs, reducing the reliance on longer drives. The overall drive time component of the health score will reflect the balance between these local options and the need for travel to larger medical centers.

**Public Transit Accessibility:**

Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) operates a network of bus routes serving the Clearwater area, providing an alternative to driving. Several routes traverse the 33764 ZIP code, offering access to various healthcare facilities. Route 18, for instance, provides direct access to Morton Plant Hospital, while other routes connect to clinics and medical offices along US-19.

The frequency of service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, is a crucial factor in assessing the reliability of public transportation. Limited service can significantly impact healthcare access for those without access to a personal vehicle. The health score will reflect the availability and frequency of these routes.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is another critical aspect of public transit accessibility. PSTA strives to provide accessible buses and infrastructure to accommodate individuals with disabilities. The availability of ramps, lifts, and designated seating areas ensures that public transit is a viable option for a wider range of residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to both driving and public transit. Their availability and cost-effectiveness, particularly for short trips to local clinics, are important considerations. The health score will factor in the ease of accessing these services within the 33764 ZIP code.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services and other medical transportation providers offer non-emergency medical transport, providing door-to-door service for appointments and treatments.

These services are particularly crucial for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit due to their medical conditions. The availability and affordability of these specialized services significantly impact the overall health score, ensuring that healthcare access is not limited by physical constraints.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" for the 33764 ZIP code will be a composite measure, incorporating the factors discussed above. It will consider the following:

* **Drive Time:** Average travel times to major healthcare facilities, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit:** Route frequency, accessibility features, and overall reliability.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The ease of accessing Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability and affordability of specialized medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The density of clinics and hospitals within the ZIP code.

The score will be presented on a scale, allowing for easy comparison and understanding. A higher score indicates better healthcare access, reflecting shorter drive times, reliable public transit, readily available ride-sharing, and accessible medical transport options.

**Implications for Moving to Clearwater:**

For individuals considering moving to Clearwater, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions or mobility limitations, the "Overall Health Score" provides valuable information. It helps prospective residents assess the ease of accessing healthcare within the 33764 ZIP code, allowing for informed decisions about their living arrangements.

The score can be used to compare different neighborhoods within Clearwater, considering the varying levels of transportation accessibility. It can also be used to compare Clearwater to other cities, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in the context of a potential relocation.

The analysis underscores the importance of considering transportation infrastructure when evaluating healthcare access. The balance between private and public transportation options, along with the availability of specialized medical transport, determines the overall ease with which residents can reach the care they need.

This comprehensive analysis provides a detailed assessment of the transportation landscape within the 33764 ZIP code, offering a nuanced understanding of healthcare access. By considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, the "Overall Health Score" provides a valuable tool for residents and those contemplating moving to Clearwater, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of healthcare access in this dynamic community.