33825, Avon Park, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33825, Avon Park, Florida is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.90 percent of residents in 33825 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Sebring with a distance of 7.10 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33825 (Avon Park, Florida)

This report analyzes the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 33825, Avon Park, Florida, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, ultimately reflecting the ease or difficulty residents face in accessing essential medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals considering moving to Avon Park, as it directly impacts their health and well-being.

The geographic isolation of Avon Park, nestled within Highlands County, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. The area is primarily rural, with limited public transit options and a reliance on personal vehicles. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect these realities, offering a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times: The Dominant Mode**

For most residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. Assessing drive times is therefore paramount. The major thoroughfare serving Avon Park is US-27, a heavily trafficked north-south artery. Driving south on US-27 leads to Sebring, the county seat, and offers access to AdventHealth Sebring, a major healthcare provider. The drive to AdventHealth Sebring typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

East-west travel is facilitated by State Road 64, which intersects US-27 in Avon Park. Driving east on State Road 64 provides access to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas. However, the availability of healthcare providers directly accessible via State Road 64 is limited, potentially increasing drive times for specialized care.

The use of local roads, such as County Road 630A and Lake Verona Drive, can provide alternative routes, particularly for residents living on the periphery of Avon Park. However, these roads often experience slower speeds and may not be as well-maintained, potentially increasing travel times and the risk of accidents. The Overall Health Score will factor in these variances, acknowledging the impact of travel time on healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation in Avon Park is provided by Highlands County Transit. However, the system is limited in scope and frequency. The routes are primarily designed to serve essential needs, such as employment and grocery shopping, with limited direct routes to healthcare facilities.

The primary bus route serving Avon Park is likely Route 1, which connects Avon Park with Sebring. This route may offer stops near healthcare facilities, but the frequency of service is often limited to specific times of the day, making it challenging for residents to schedule appointments or seek urgent care. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is a crucial consideration, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the services. The Overall Health Score will account for the limited reach and frequency of Highlands County Transit, and the potential difficulties this poses for residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Avon Park, but their availability and reliability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. These services can be useful for short trips or when personal transportation is unavailable.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Several providers operate in the area, including First Choice Medical Transportation and MedStar Ambulance Service. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility limitations or medical needs. While these services are valuable, they often come with a higher cost than other transportation options. The Overall Health Score will weigh the availability and cost-effectiveness of these services, acknowledging their importance for specific populations.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access in Avon Park is not simply about the availability of transportation; it is a multifaceted challenge that includes the availability of healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and the ability to afford medical care. The Overall Health Score will incorporate these factors, providing a holistic view of the healthcare landscape.

The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services within a reasonable distance is crucial. The presence of AdventHealth Sebring, although a drive away, is a significant advantage for residents of Avon Park. However, access to specialized care may require longer travel times to larger cities such as Orlando or Tampa. The Overall Health Score will assess the availability of healthcare providers and the potential need for residents to travel outside of the immediate area for specialized services.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the Overall Health Score for residents of ZIP Code 33825 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport pose challenges.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Expand the Highlands County Transit routes and increase the frequency of service, particularly to healthcare facilities. Consider implementing demand-response services to better meet the needs of residents.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Partner with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation options for residents with limited incomes or mobility challenges.
* **Support Medical Transport Services:** Provide financial assistance to medical transport services to reduce the cost for patients.
* **Encourage Telehealth:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for travel, particularly for routine appointments and consultations.
* **Attract Healthcare Providers:** Encourage the establishment of additional healthcare facilities and the recruitment of primary care physicians and specialists to Avon Park.

**Conclusion**

Moving to Avon Park requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The transportation landscape, while offering some options, presents challenges. By addressing the recommendations outlined above, the community can improve the Overall Health Score and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. This report serves as a starting point for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and promote the health and well-being of the residents of Avon Park.