33965, Fort Myers, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 33965, Fort Myers, Florida is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.39 percent of residents in 33965 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gulf Coast Medical Center Lee Health with a distance of 7.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 33965

The well-being of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, and chief among these is healthcare. This report delves into the intricate web of transportation options available to residents of ZIP Code 33965, located in the Fort Myers area, assessing their impact on healthcare access. We will consider drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, culminating in an Overall Health Score that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching medical care. This analysis is crucial for prospective residents considering moving to Fort Myers, as well as for current inhabitants seeking to understand and navigate their healthcare landscape.

The foundation of healthcare access in 33965 lies in the road network. The primary arteries for vehicular transportation are **I-75**, which provides north-south connectivity, and **US-41 (Tamiami Trail)**, a major east-west thoroughfare. These highways are vital, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times to medical facilities. Secondary roads like **College Parkway**, **Daniels Parkway**, and **Six Mile Cypress Parkway** serve as crucial connectors, feeding into the larger network and offering alternative routes, though they too can experience heavy traffic.

Drive times to healthcare providers vary considerably based on location within the ZIP code and the specific medical facility. The Lee Health System, with its hospitals and clinics, is a major provider. Reaching **Lee Memorial Hospital** from the northern reaches of 33965 might involve a drive of 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic on I-75 or US-41. Accessing clinics further south, such as those near **Gulf Coast Medical Center**, could involve similar travel times. Specialized clinics, such as those for oncology or cardiology, might necessitate longer journeys, especially if located outside the immediate area.

Public transportation, provided by **LeeTran**, presents an alternative, though its effectiveness in facilitating healthcare access is limited by its route network and frequency. Several bus routes serve the 33965 area, including routes **40**, **50**, and **60**. Route **40** travels along US-41, offering access to some medical facilities. Route **50** runs east-west, connecting to locations further inland. Route **60** offers a north-south connection.

However, LeeTran's routes often have limited service hours, particularly on weekends, and the frequency of buses can be an impediment. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. LeeTran buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features. The availability of accessible stops is also a consideration. While LeeTran provides a vital service, its limitations can pose challenges for residents relying on public transportation for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible, albeit potentially more expensive, transportation option. These services are readily available in the Fort Myers area, including 33965. They provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing can also fluctuate depending on demand and time of day.

Medical transportation services specifically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Fort Myers area, including **American Medical Response (AMR)** and smaller, independent providers. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, medical transportation services can be costly, and advance booking is often required.

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 33965 reflects a mixed picture. While the road network provides a solid foundation for transportation, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Public transportation, though available, is limited by route frequency and operating hours. Ride-sharing services offer a more flexible option, but the cost can be a barrier. Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance but come with associated costs.

The overall score is influenced by several key factors. The geographical layout of the ZIP code, with its sprawling nature, contributes to longer travel distances. The availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code itself is a positive factor, but the concentration of specialized services outside the immediate area necessitates longer journeys. The demographics of the population, including age and income levels, also play a role, as these factors influence the ability to afford transportation options.

For individuals considering moving to Fort Myers and specifically to 33965, a careful assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those reliant on public transportation should thoroughly research LeeTran routes and schedules. Individuals with mobility limitations should investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services. Those with access to a personal vehicle will likely find the road network the most convenient option, but they should factor in potential traffic delays.

The Overall Health Score for 33965 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the road network offers good connectivity, the limitations of public transportation and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create challenges for some residents. Enhancements to public transportation, such as increased route frequency and expanded service hours, would significantly improve healthcare access. Further investment in accessible infrastructure and affordable transportation options is crucial to ensuring that all residents of 33965 can readily access the medical care they need. This is especially important for a growing community like Fort Myers.