34987, Port Saint Lucie, Florida Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 34987, Port Saint Lucie, Florida is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.25 percent of residents in 34987 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Lucie Medical Center with a distance of 9.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 34987

The well-being of a community hinges on its ability to access vital services, and paramount among these is healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 34987 in Port Saint Lucie, Florida, examines the crucial link between transportation and healthcare access, providing an “Overall Health Score” based on commute times, available transportation options, and the specific challenges faced by residents. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone considering moving to Port Saint Lucie, as they directly impact quality of life and overall health outcomes.

The geographical layout of 34987, primarily encompassing the western reaches of Port Saint Lucie, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The sprawling nature of the area means that residents often rely on personal vehicles for daily activities, including accessing healthcare. The Overall Health Score reflects this reliance, considering the impact of drive times, public transportation limitations, and the availability of alternative transport solutions.

Drive times are a critical component of the score. Residents of 34987 primarily rely on **Florida's Turnpike** and **Interstate 95 (I-95)** for north-south travel, and **Crosstown Parkway** and **St Lucie West Boulevard** for east-west movement. The proximity of these major thoroughfares offers some advantages, yet traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times, impacting healthcare access.

For instance, a routine check-up at a clinic near Tradition (east of I-95) might involve a 20-30 minute drive under ideal conditions. However, during rush hour, this could easily stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour, placing a burden on those with chronic conditions or those needing urgent care. The Overall Health Score will reflect these potential delays.

Public transportation options in 34987 are limited, posing a significant hurdle for many residents. The **St. Lucie County Transit System** provides bus services, but route coverage in this ZIP code is sparse. Route 1, for example, may offer limited service along major arteries like St Lucie West Boulevard, but access to more remote areas is often restricted.

The lack of extensive public transit necessitates reliance on other options. The buses, while equipped with ADA features for accessibility, may not provide the frequency or coverage needed for convenient healthcare access. The Overall Health Score considers the limitations of public transportation, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or have mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Port Saint Lucie, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. Their convenience, however, comes with a cost. The expense of regular ride-share trips for healthcare appointments can be a significant financial burden, particularly for low-income individuals or those with multiple appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide a crucial service for individuals who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation. These services, however, often require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly during peak demand. The Overall Health Score incorporates the availability and accessibility of these services.

The Overall Health Score also evaluates the proximity of healthcare facilities. 34987 residents have access to several medical centers, including the **Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital** and various urgent care facilities. However, the location of these facilities relative to residential areas significantly impacts the score.

The score considers the travel time to these facilities, accounting for potential delays caused by traffic congestion. It also assesses the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology or oncology, and the distance residents must travel to access them. This is a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Port Saint Lucie and wanting to ensure access to necessary medical care.

The accessibility of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services is another vital consideration. The Overall Health Score includes the proximity of pharmacies to residential areas, as well as the ease of access to prescription medications. The availability of home healthcare services is also considered, particularly for individuals who require in-home care.

The Overall Health Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving landscape of healthcare access in 34987. The score will be updated periodically to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of public transportation routes, and the introduction of new healthcare services.

The Overall Health Score provides a comprehensive overview of the transportation and healthcare access challenges and opportunities in 34987. It is a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike. It highlights the need for improved public transportation, the promotion of ride-sharing programs, and the expansion of healthcare facilities in underserved areas.

For individuals considering moving to Port Saint Lucie, this score provides a realistic assessment of healthcare access, enabling informed decisions about where to live and how to best meet their healthcare needs. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents of 34987 have equitable access to quality healthcare, regardless of their transportation limitations. This requires a multifaceted approach, including investments in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of public transit, and the promotion of innovative healthcare delivery models.