34613, Brooksville, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 34613, Brooksville, Florida is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.65 percent of residents in 34613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Oak Hill Hospital with a distance of 1.12 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 34613

This analysis delves into the overall health score for residents of Brooksville, Florida, ZIP code 34613, focusing specifically on the crucial aspect of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. For individuals considering moving to Brooksville, understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview, considering various transportation options, drive times, and accessibility features to paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.

The health score, in this context, is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care. A high score reflects readily available and efficient transportation options, minimizing travel time and maximizing accessibility. Conversely, a low score indicates significant challenges, potentially hindering timely access to healthcare and negatively impacting overall well-being.

**Roadway Navigation and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries serving 34613 are US-41, a north-south corridor, and SR-50, an east-west thoroughfare. These roads are critical for healthcare access, connecting residents to various medical facilities within and outside the ZIP code. The drive times, however, are subject to traffic conditions, which can fluctuate significantly, especially during peak hours.

For residents needing routine check-ups or specialist appointments, the proximity to local clinics and hospitals is a major factor. Brooksville itself boasts several medical providers, including Bayfront Health Brooksville, the primary hospital in the area. Driving to Bayfront Health from most locations within 34613 typically takes 5-15 minutes, depending on the specific origin point and traffic flow on US-41 or SR-50.

Specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or oncology services, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in neighboring cities. Tampa, approximately 45-60 minutes south via the Suncoast Parkway (SR-589) and I-75, offers a wider array of specialized medical facilities. The commute to Tampa, however, can be significantly longer during rush hour, potentially exceeding an hour.

Similarly, accessing healthcare facilities in Ocala, roughly an hour north via I-75, is another option, although less frequently chosen due to the distance. The choice of destination often depends on the specific medical need and the availability of specialists.

**Public Transit: Limited Options and Challenges:**

Public transportation in 34613, and Hernando County in general, presents significant challenges. The primary provider is Hernando County Transit (TheBus). The routes are limited, operating on a fixed-route system with infrequent service, making them unsuitable for many healthcare-related trips, especially for those with urgent needs.

TheBus does provide some routes that connect to medical facilities, but the travel times are often significantly longer than driving, potentially adding an hour or more to the journey. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible buses are available, offering ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited frequency and route coverage remain a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents relying on public transit.

For those considering moving to Brooksville, the reliance on personal vehicles is evident. The lack of robust public transit options necessitates careful consideration of individual mobility and the potential need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 34613, providing an alternative to driving or public transit. While convenient, the cost can be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer specialized options for individuals with specific needs. Ambulance services are crucial for emergencies, while NEMT provides transportation for appointments and other medical-related trips. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, including First Medical Transportation and MedRide. These services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing.

The availability of these services can significantly improve healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. However, the reliance on external services adds another layer of complexity and potential cost to healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access and the Moving Decision:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 34613 is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the proximity to local healthcare providers is a positive factor, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services present challenges. For individuals considering moving to Brooksville, the availability of a reliable vehicle is almost essential.

The drive times to Tampa and Ocala, while offering access to specialized care, can be significant, particularly during peak traffic. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can also be a concern for some residents. The decision to move to Brooksville should therefore involve a careful assessment of individual transportation needs and the ability to navigate the existing transportation infrastructure.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment:**

In conclusion, the health score for healthcare access in 34613 presents a mixed picture. The availability of local healthcare providers and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services offer some advantages. However, the limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times to specialized care facilities create challenges.

For those considering moving to Brooksville, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial. Assessing individual mobility needs, considering the cost of transportation options, and evaluating the proximity to healthcare facilities are essential steps in making an informed decision. The overall health score, therefore, highlights the need for proactive planning and careful consideration of transportation logistics to ensure seamless access to healthcare for residents of 34613.