31563, Surrency, Georgia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 31563, Surrency, Georgia is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.84 percent of residents in 31563 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Appling Healthcare with a distance of 9.87 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Surrency, GA (ZIP Code 31563)

Considering a move to the tranquil embrace of Surrency, Georgia (ZIP Code 31563)? This assessment, the "Alzheimer's Score," focuses on the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically tailored for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive impairments. Transportation options become paramount when healthcare needs intensify, and this analysis meticulously examines the available pathways to medical care, offering a realistic perspective on navigating the region.

The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport options, all essential components of ensuring timely and reliable access to healthcare services. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the transportation landscape, enabling informed decisions for those prioritizing healthcare access in their relocation plans.

Surrency, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating reliance on various transportation methods. This analysis delves into each option, providing a comprehensive picture of the realities of accessing medical care in and around Surrency.

**Drive Time Demographics**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare in Surrency is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The drive times to essential medical facilities are a critical factor in assessing the feasibility of residing in this area. The closest hospital, **Wayne Memorial Hospital** in Jesup, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic.

The journey typically involves utilizing **Highway 301 South** and then transitioning onto **Highway 84 East**. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise due to traffic or weather conditions. Residents should factor in these variables when planning medical appointments.

For specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric medicine, the drive times increase. **Southeast Georgia Health System's Brunswick Campus**, offering a wider range of specialists, is approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive, primarily via **Highway 341 East** and **Interstate 95 South**. This longer distance necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential travel fatigue for individuals with cognitive impairments.

**Savannah**, a larger city with more comprehensive medical facilities, is roughly a 1 hour and 45-minute to 2-hour drive. This journey often involves **Highway 301 South** to **Interstate 16 East**, followed by a transition onto **Interstate 95 South**. While offering access to a wider array of specialists, the extended drive time poses significant challenges.

**Public Transit Realities**

Public transportation options in Surrency and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the **Southeast Georgia Regional Transit Authority (SGRTA)**, which offers demand-response services, including door-to-door transportation. However, the availability and frequency of these services are subject to scheduling and may require advance booking.

The SGRTA operates within a defined service area, and trips to healthcare facilities outside of this area may not be readily available. Furthermore, the service may not be equipped with specialized features, such as wheelchair accessibility, on all vehicles. Individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance should confirm the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles when booking.

Public transit, while potentially offering an alternative to driving, presents significant limitations in terms of convenience and reliability. The need for advance booking and potential scheduling constraints can make it challenging to access timely medical care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Landscape**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Surrency area, but their availability may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The reliance on ride-sharing can be problematic for individuals with cognitive impairments who may require assistance or supervision during their transportation.

Specialized medical transport services offer a more tailored solution for individuals with specific needs. **Medicaid** and **Medicare** recipients may be eligible for non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, which can provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, eligibility requirements and service availability vary.

Several private medical transport companies operate in the region, offering services such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained attendants. These services can be expensive, and the cost may not be covered by insurance. It is crucial to research and compare different medical transport providers to identify the most suitable and cost-effective option.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Surrency, GA, reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access in a rural setting. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, coupled with the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, poses significant hurdles for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive impairments.

The extended drive times to specialized medical facilities can be particularly challenging, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential travel fatigue. The availability of medical transport services provides a valuable alternative, but the cost and eligibility requirements must be carefully evaluated.

When considering a move to Surrency, families should carefully assess the healthcare needs of their loved ones and prioritize proximity to essential medical facilities. They should also explore the availability of medical transport services and establish a reliable transportation plan.

**Moving to Surrency: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Surrency offers the allure of a peaceful, close-knit community. However, it is vital to acknowledge the limitations in healthcare access. Families considering a move must weigh the benefits of a rural lifestyle against the challenges of navigating the transportation landscape to medical care.

The "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, including identifying accessible transportation options, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and ensuring a support system to facilitate timely and reliable access to medical care.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Surrency should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and a commitment to developing a robust healthcare access plan. This proactive approach will help ensure the well-being and quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive impairments.