34984, Port Saint Lucie, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 34984, Port Saint Lucie, Florida is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.33 percent of residents in 34984 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Lucie Medical Center with a distance of 3.36 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 34984

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 34984, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access, particularly as it relates to transportation options. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is paramount to assessing the overall well-being of a community. This report delves into the available transportation infrastructure, drive times, public transit alternatives, and ride-sharing/medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Port Saint Lucie or already residing within this area.

The health score, in this context, reflects the relative ease of accessing necessary medical care. A higher score indicates greater accessibility, while a lower score highlights potential challenges. This assessment considers factors such as proximity to healthcare providers, the efficiency of transportation options, and the availability of services for individuals with disabilities.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary arteries for transportation within and around ZIP Code 34984 are crucial for healthcare access. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles to navigate the area. The major thoroughfare, Interstate 95 (I-95), provides a vital north-south link, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. The Florida's Turnpike, running parallel to I-95, offers an alternative route, often with less congestion but with associated tolls.

Within the ZIP code itself, major roads like US-1 and St. Lucie West Boulevard serve as critical east-west connectors. Drive times to medical facilities vary considerably depending on the location within 34984 and the specific healthcare provider. For example, a trip from the western reaches of the ZIP code to a hospital near US-1 could take 20-30 minutes during non-peak hours, but this could easily double during rush hour.

The efficiency of the road network directly impacts healthcare access. Delays due to traffic can exacerbate medical emergencies and increase the stress associated with routine appointments. Careful consideration of commute times, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention, is essential.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Port Saint Lucie, and specifically within ZIP Code 34984, are somewhat limited. The St. Lucie County Transit System (SLCTS) provides bus services throughout the county. However, the routes and frequency of service may not always align perfectly with the needs of residents seeking healthcare.

Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3 are the primary routes that service the area. These routes, while offering a crucial service, may have limited frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends. This can pose a significant challenge for those relying on public transit for medical appointments. The lack of direct routes to all healthcare facilities necessitates transfers, further extending travel times.

The SLCTS strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit for those with mobility limitations should be carefully considered. The reliance on public transit for healthcare access can be a significant factor in the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for residents of 34984. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Ambulance and AMR (American Medical Response), are essential for individuals requiring emergency medical care or specialized transportation. These services provide trained medical personnel and specialized vehicles to transport patients to and from healthcare facilities.

The accessibility and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services play a crucial role in determining the overall health score. The availability of these services, particularly for those with limited mobility or in emergency situations, is a critical factor in healthcare access.

**Healthcare Provider Proximity and Distribution:**

The distribution of healthcare providers within and around ZIP Code 34984 significantly influences healthcare access. Proximity to hospitals, urgent care centers, primary care physicians, and specialists reduces drive times and improves the overall health score.

The presence of hospitals such as HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital, while not directly within the ZIP code, are within a reasonable driving distance. The concentration of medical offices and clinics along major roadways, such as US-1 and St. Lucie West Boulevard, provides convenient access for many residents.

However, the geographical distribution of healthcare providers can create disparities in access. Residents in the western or southern parts of the ZIP code may face longer drive times to reach certain specialists or hospitals. Careful consideration of the location of healthcare facilities and their proximity to residential areas is crucial.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 34984 is moderately positive. While the area benefits from a well-developed road network and the availability of ride-sharing services, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion present challenges.

The score reflects a balance between the convenience of personal vehicles and the constraints of public transit options. Residents considering moving to Port Saint Lucie should carefully assess their transportation needs and their proximity to healthcare providers. Individuals with mobility limitations or those who rely on public transit should pay particular attention to the availability and accessibility of transportation services.

Further improvements to public transit, including increased route frequency and expanded service areas, could significantly enhance the health score. The promotion of ride-sharing programs and the expansion of medical transport services could also improve healthcare access.

In conclusion, while 34984 offers reasonable healthcare access, residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and proximity to medical facilities to ensure their well-being. The overall health score reflects a complex interplay of factors, and continuous efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare access are crucial for fostering a healthy community.