32181, Pomona Park, Florida Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 32181, Pomona Park, Florida is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.71 percent of residents in 32181 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hca Florida Putnam Hospital with a distance of 12.01 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pomona Park (ZIP Code 32181)

The decision to relocate, especially to a rural haven like Pomona Park, Florida (ZIP Code 32181), often centers on lifestyle. However, the critical aspect of **healthcare access**, particularly for men considering the prevalence of prostate cancer, demands meticulous investigation. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating **transportation** options and healthcare facilities within reach, crucial for informed decision-making. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

Pomona Park, nestled in Putnam County, offers a tranquil escape. But its relative isolation necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare resources. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers the ease with which a resident can access diagnostic services (PSA tests, biopsies), treatment options (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy), and follow-up care. This score isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, providing a realistic view of the challenges and opportunities facing men in this ZIP code.

**Drive Times: The Primary Route to Care**

For residents of Pomona Park, personal vehicle **transportation** is the dominant mode for accessing healthcare. The primary route to larger medical centers involves navigating several key roadways. Heading south on County Road 309, the journey begins. This road, a local thoroughfare, provides a direct link to US-17, a major north-south artery. US-17 offers access to Palatka, the county seat, and beyond.

The drive to Palatka, home to Putnam Community Medical Center (PCMC), typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. PCMC provides a range of services, including urology and oncology, crucial for prostate cancer care. This facility is the closest significant healthcare provider.

Further afield, Jacksonville offers more specialized treatment options. The drive to Jacksonville involves merging onto US-17 and then connecting to I-95 North. This interstate provides a swift route, but the total travel time can range from 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. Jacksonville boasts several hospitals, including Mayo Clinic Jacksonville and Baptist Medical Center, offering comprehensive cancer care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Putnam County are limited. The Putnam County Transportation (PCT) provides demand-response services, offering door-to-door service within the county. However, PCT operates on a reservation basis, and service availability may be restricted, particularly for appointments outside of regular business hours.

PCT vehicles are equipped with ADA features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited scope and potential scheduling constraints of PCT make it a less-than-ideal solution for routine medical appointments or urgent care needs. Reliance on public transit for prostate cancer care would necessitate meticulous planning and flexibility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Pomona Park area, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate. While these services can offer a convenient option for occasional trips, their cost and potential for delays should be considered. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments at distant hospitals, is not guaranteed.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services, a national provider, offer non-emergency medical transport. These services can provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, medical transport services can be expensive and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Pomona Park reflects a mixed picture. The primary advantage is the proximity to PCMC in Palatka, offering essential services. However, the reliance on personal **transportation** and the limited public transit options create challenges. The longer drive times to Jacksonville, with its more comprehensive cancer centers, necessitate careful planning and consideration of traffic.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provides alternative options, but these come with potential cost and logistical constraints. The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for Pomona Park could be described as "moderate." While healthcare is accessible, it requires proactive planning and a willingness to navigate potential **transportation** challenges.

**Moving to Pomona Park: A Healthcare Perspective**

For men considering **moving to Pomona Park**, this assessment underscores the importance of prioritizing healthcare access. Prospective residents should:

* **Assess Insurance Coverage:** Ensure their health insurance plan provides adequate coverage for prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment at facilities within reasonable driving distance.
* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Select a primary care physician in the area to facilitate referrals to urologists and oncologists.
* **Investigate Specialist Availability:** Research the availability of urologists and oncologists at PCMC and in Jacksonville, including their appointment scheduling processes.
* **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Familiarize themselves with medical **transportation** services and their associated costs and coverage.
* **Consider Proximity to Family/Support:** Factor in the potential need for family or friend assistance with **transportation** to appointments.

**Conclusion**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Pomona Park is a nuanced assessment. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the **transportation** landscape dictates a proactive approach to healthcare. By understanding the available resources and potential challenges, men can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, ensuring their well-being while enjoying the benefits of **moving to Pomona Park**. The key is to balance the allure of rural living with a realistic evaluation of **healthcare access**.