33930, Felda, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33930, Felda, Florida is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.42 percent of residents in 33930 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.44 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33930

The overall health score for residents of Felda, Florida, ZIP code 33930, is significantly impacted by the challenges inherent in accessing healthcare. This score considers multiple facets of transportation, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements that determine the ease with which residents can receive necessary medical care. The ability to reach healthcare providers promptly and efficiently is a fundamental determinant of overall well-being, and in this rural area, the transportation landscape presents considerable hurdles.

The primary method of transportation for most residents is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Driving times to the nearest healthcare facilities are a critical component of the health score. The closest hospitals and clinics are located in LaBelle, approximately 15 to 20 miles away, a drive that typically takes 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. Navigating these routes involves utilizing several key roadways. Residents often travel along State Road 80, a major east-west thoroughfare, or County Road 78, which offers a more direct north-south route. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying critical medical appointments or emergency responses.

Further complicating matters is the limited availability of public transportation. The Hendry County Transportation Department offers a demand-response service, primarily for elderly and disabled individuals, but it is not a comprehensive public transit system. This service requires advance booking and is subject to operational constraints, making it unsuitable for urgent medical needs or regular appointments. The lack of readily available public transit options significantly diminishes the health score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not own a vehicle. The absence of fixed-route buses or other mass transit options restricts healthcare access for a substantial portion of the population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area but are not as readily available as in more urban settings. The reliability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The limited availability and potential for longer wait times further impact the health score. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for those with limited financial resources, making healthcare access even more challenging.

Medical transport services are available, but these are primarily reserved for emergencies or patients requiring specialized care. Ambulance services, such as Hendry County Emergency Medical Services, provide critical pre-hospital care and transport to the nearest hospitals. However, the response time for emergency medical services, while generally within acceptable standards, is still influenced by the distances involved and the availability of ambulances. Other medical transport options, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, are available for scheduled appointments but often require advance booking and can be costly.

The health score is further influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. While Felda itself has some limited healthcare services, including a small clinic, residents often need to travel to LaBelle or other nearby towns for specialized care, such as specialists or hospital-based services. The limited local healthcare infrastructure necessitates longer travel times and adds to the overall burden of accessing medical care.

For individuals considering moving to Felda, understanding the transportation challenges and the associated impact on healthcare access is essential. The health score reflects the reality that residents in 33930 face significant hurdles in reaching medical facilities. This is particularly true for those with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or those who lack reliable transportation. The lack of robust public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles create vulnerabilities, especially during emergencies.

The overall health score for Felda, ZIP code 33930, is therefore negatively impacted by the transportation challenges. The combination of long drive times, limited public transit, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the need to travel to distant healthcare facilities contributes to a lower score. This situation underscores the need for initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access, such as expanding public transportation options, incentivizing ride-sharing services, and potentially establishing more healthcare facilities within the community.

The health score is a dynamic measure, influenced by various factors. The availability of healthcare providers, the efficiency of emergency services, and the overall health of the community all play a role. The transportation challenges, however, are a significant and persistent factor that requires attention. Improving transportation infrastructure and services is crucial to enhancing the health score and ensuring that all residents of Felda have equitable access to the healthcare they need.

The health score is not simply a number; it reflects the lived experiences of residents and their ability to obtain timely and effective medical care. Addressing the transportation barriers is a critical step toward improving the overall health and well-being of the Felda community. This requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community members.

The health score is a reflection of the reality faced by residents in Felda, and it highlights the need for proactive measures to improve healthcare access. The challenges are significant, but they are not insurmountable. By working together, the community can improve the transportation landscape and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to live healthier lives. The health score should be used as a catalyst for positive change, driving initiatives that prioritize healthcare access and promote the well-being of the community.