34219, Parrish, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 34219, Parrish, Florida is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.44 percent of residents in 34219 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Manatee Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Parrish, Florida (ZIP Code 34219)

Parrish, Florida, a rapidly growing community nestled in Manatee County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering overall health and well-being. A critical factor influencing health outcomes is the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 34219, evaluating the ease with which they can access necessary medical care, considering various modes of transportation. This is particularly relevant for individuals contemplating moving to Parrish, as understanding healthcare access is paramount for informed decision-making.

The geographical layout of Parrish, while offering a desirable suburban lifestyle, contributes to the complexity of healthcare access. The area is characterized by a mix of residential developments, agricultural lands, and commercial centers, with the primary thoroughfares being US-301 and Interstate 75. These roadways are crucial arteries for transportation, yet their limitations impact healthcare access for residents.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Parrish. The drive times to various healthcare facilities are a significant determinant of the overall health score. The primary healthcare hub for Parrish residents is generally located in Bradenton, a drive that can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Heading south on US-301, residents encounter the bustling commercial corridors of Ellenton and Palmetto, home to various medical offices and urgent care clinics. However, the frequent congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. Interstate 75 provides a faster route, but its reliance on speed and potential for accidents can be a concern.

Further afield, residents may need to travel to Sarasota for specialized care, adding an additional 30 to 60 minutes to their commute. This longer travel time can be a deterrent for preventative care and timely treatment of acute conditions. The distance also presents challenges for elderly residents or those with mobility issues.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Parrish is limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle. Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) operates a network of bus routes, but coverage in Parrish is sparse. Route 20, the primary route serving the area, offers limited frequency and may not connect directly to all healthcare facilities.

The lack of direct routes necessitates transfers, adding considerable time and complexity to the journey. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, but the overall convenience and frequency of service remain a concern. The long wait times and potential for multiple transfers can discourage the use of public transit, particularly for those with urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Parrish can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Surge pricing during periods of high demand can also make these services cost-prohibitive for some residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Medical Transportation and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent needs. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

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

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of 34219 is impacted by several factors. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on ride-sharing services all contribute to a complex picture. The score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity.

The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics within Parrish itself can significantly improve the score. However, the current situation reveals a need for improvement. The score is further influenced by the availability of healthcare facilities that accept various insurance plans, ensuring that residents can access affordable care.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To enhance the "Overall Health Score" for Parrish residents, several key improvements are needed. Expanding the public transportation network, with increased frequency and direct routes to healthcare facilities, is crucial. This would provide a viable option for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Encouraging the establishment of additional healthcare facilities within Parrish, including primary care practices, specialist offices, and urgent care clinics, would reduce drive times and improve convenience. This would also increase competition among providers, potentially leading to lower costs and improved quality of care.

Promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is also essential. This could involve partnerships with local government or healthcare providers to offer subsidized transportation options for low-income residents or those with mobility issues.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 34219 is moderate, reflecting the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Parrish. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations of transportation options and the distance to healthcare facilities pose challenges. By addressing these issues through strategic investments in public transportation, healthcare infrastructure, and transportation assistance programs, the community can significantly improve the health and well-being of its residents, making Parrish an even more attractive place to live and thrive. Understanding these factors is critical for anyone considering moving to Parrish, ensuring they are well-informed about the realities of healthcare access.