The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 34138, Chokoloskee, Florida is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
100.00 percent of residents in 34138 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 35.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Naples Community Hospital with a distance of 35.53 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 34138, Chokoloskee, Florida
Overall Health Score | 43 |
---|---|
People Score | 100 |
Provider Score | 17 |
Hospital Score | 62 |
Travel Score | 4 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 34138 | Chokoloskee | Florida |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.68 |
1 Car | 49.09 | 49.09 | 22.58 |
2 Cars | 50.91 | 50.91 | 44.13 |
3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 30.62 |
Vehicular Access in 34138, Chokoloskee, Florida
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 34138
This comprehensive analysis assesses the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 34138, focusing on transportation options. This score, crucial for anyone considering moving to Chokoloskee or the surrounding areas, considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of healthcare access, empowering informed decisions about your health and well-being.
ZIP Code 34138, encompassing Chokoloskee and portions of Everglades City, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access due to its rural nature and geographical isolation. The primary consideration is the distance to medical facilities. The overall health score reflects the reality of navigating the transportation landscape to secure necessary medical care.
**Drive Time Dynamics**
The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in this area is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Drive times are significantly impacted by the limited road network and the area's geographic constraints. Accessing major hospitals and specialist clinics requires navigating the Everglades.
For residents of Chokoloskee, the journey to Naples, the nearest major city with comprehensive healthcare, involves a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey primarily utilizes **Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail)**, a vital artery connecting the region. **Chokoloskee Island Road** provides the initial access point, merging onto Highway 41. Further access to Naples requires traveling on **Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley)**.
Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are available in Everglades City, offering a more immediate option for basic medical needs. However, specialized care often necessitates the longer drive to Naples. The drive to Marco Island, another location with medical facilities, takes approximately 30-45 minutes via Highway 41 and Collier Boulevard.
Traffic conditions, particularly during peak tourist seasons, can extend drive times considerably. Unexpected delays due to wildlife crossings or accidents are also a factor, adding uncertainty to healthcare access.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Public transportation options in ZIP Code 34138 are extremely limited. The Collier Area Transit (CAT) system provides some service within Collier County, but its routes and frequency are not designed to adequately serve the needs of residents in this area.
Currently, no direct CAT routes specifically serve Chokoloskee or Everglades City. Residents wishing to utilize public transit would likely need to travel to a central location, such as Naples, to access the CAT system. This necessitates a combination of transportation methods, further complicating healthcare access.
The CAT system's routes generally do not offer direct access to major hospitals or specialist clinics. Therefore, individuals relying on public transit may face multiple transfers and significant travel times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and services within the CAT system is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While CAT strives to provide accessible transportation, the limited frequency and route coverage pose significant challenges.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Naples and Marco Island areas. However, their availability in Chokoloskee and Everglades City is significantly lower. The limited presence of ride-share services means that securing a ride for medical appointments can be unreliable and expensive.
Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **First Response Ambulance Service**. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services.
The cost of medical transport services can be substantial, particularly for long-distance trips. Insurance coverage for these services varies, and individuals should verify their coverage before relying on medical transport.
**Overall Health Score Assessment**
The overall health score for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 34138 is moderate, reflecting the challenges associated with transportation. The primary reliance on personal vehicles creates vulnerability to traffic delays and the need for reliable transportation. The limited public transit options and ride-share availability further exacerbate these difficulties.
While medical transport services offer a viable alternative, the cost and potential need for prior arrangements can be a barrier. The geographic isolation of Chokoloskee and Everglades City significantly impacts healthcare access.
**Recommendations for Improvement**
Improving healthcare access in ZIP Code 34138 requires a multi-pronged approach. Expanding the reach and frequency of public transit services, potentially through partnerships with local organizations, would be beneficial. Encouraging the expansion of ride-share services in the area could improve accessibility.
Promoting telehealth services and the availability of mobile medical units could help bridge the gap in healthcare access. Supporting the development of local healthcare facilities, including clinics and urgent care centers, would reduce the need for long-distance travel.
Finally, residents considering moving to Chokoloskee should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Understanding the challenges and limitations of healthcare access in this area is critical for making informed decisions about their health and well-being.
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