34614, Brooksville, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 34614, Brooksville, Florida is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.24 percent of residents in 34614 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Oak Hill Hospital with a distance of 6.95 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Brooksville, FL (ZIP Code 34614)

This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in Brooksville, Florida (ZIP Code 34614), focusing on the critical element of transportation. Understanding how residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to assessing their overall well-being. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to offer a comprehensive picture for prospective residents and current community members alike, particularly those considering **moving to Brooksville**.

The health score considers the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. It is not simply about the presence of medical facilities but, crucially, the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach them. This encompasses geographical proximity, mode of **transportation**, and the associated costs and time commitments. The score will reflect the challenges and opportunities related to accessing medical care within this specific ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of **transportation** in Brooksville is personal vehicles. The area's road network is a vital component of healthcare access. Major thoroughfares like US-41, a north-south artery, and US-98, running east-west, are critical for reaching hospitals and clinics. State Road 50, another significant east-west route, provides further connectivity. The availability of these routes, however, doesn’t always translate to swift access.

Drive times vary significantly depending on the destination, time of day, and traffic conditions. For example, a trip from the southern part of 34614 to Bayfront Health Brooksville, the primary hospital, might take approximately 10-15 minutes under normal conditions. However, during peak hours, or if there’s an accident on US-41 or SR-50, this could easily double. Accessing specialist clinics located in neighboring areas, such as Spring Hill or Tampa, requires longer travel times, potentially exceeding 30-45 minutes.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. While generally well-maintained, potholes and construction can occasionally impede travel. The presence of traffic lights and intersections along the major roads can also add to travel time. Furthermore, the lack of a comprehensive highway system, such as an interstate, necessitates reliance on surface streets, which can be slower and more susceptible to congestion.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit in Brooksville, while present, presents significant limitations. The Hernando County Transit (HCT) system offers a limited bus network, primarily serving essential routes within the county. Route 1, for instance, connects the downtown area with various points, including some medical facilities. However, the frequency of these routes is often low, with buses running infrequently, especially on weekends and evenings.

The limited geographical coverage of the HCT system is a major obstacle. Many areas within 34614, particularly those further from the town center, are not directly served by bus routes. This necessitates a walk to a bus stop, adding to the overall **transportation** time and potentially creating difficulties for individuals with mobility issues.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial aspect of public transit. HCT strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the limited frequency and route coverage can still pose challenges for individuals with disabilities, especially those requiring specialized medical appointments or treatments. This is an important consideration when **moving to Brooksville**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Brooksville, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. Their availability, however, can be variable. Ride availability can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Surge pricing, which increases fares during periods of high demand, can also make these services expensive, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit. These services, including brands like Firstat Nursing Services and American Medical Response, provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services often come at a significant cost, potentially creating a financial burden for patients. The availability of these services is also a factor, as booking in advance is usually required.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 34614 is moderate. While the presence of a local hospital and some clinics is a positive factor, the limitations in **transportation** significantly impact the score. The reliance on personal vehicles, the constraints of public transit, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges for many residents.

Factors that negatively impact the score include the limited public transit coverage, the potential for traffic congestion, and the cost of alternative **transportation** options. The availability of ride-sharing services, while helpful, is subject to fluctuations in demand and pricing. Medical transport services offer a solution but are often expensive.

The score is further influenced by the demographics of the area. Brooksville has a significant elderly population, many of whom may have mobility issues or limited access to personal vehicles. This demographic is particularly vulnerable to the **transportation** challenges described.

For individuals considering **moving to Brooksville**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential. Those reliant on public transit or with limited mobility should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing medical care. The availability of family support, the proximity to essential services, and the ability to afford alternative **transportation** options are crucial considerations.

Improvements to the Overall Health Score could be achieved through several measures. Expanding the public transit network, increasing bus frequency, and improving the accessibility of bus stops would significantly benefit residents. Encouraging the availability of affordable ride-sharing options and promoting awareness of medical transport services would also be beneficial. Further investment in road infrastructure, to mitigate traffic congestion, would enhance access to healthcare. Addressing these issues would enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.