30747, Summerville, Georgia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 30747, Summerville, Georgia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.20 percent of residents in 30747 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Redmond with a distance of 16.71 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summerville (ZIP Code 30747)

Considering a move to Summerville, Georgia (ZIP Code 30747), with a history of asthma? This assessment provides a detailed look at healthcare access, focusing on transportation options and their suitability for individuals managing respiratory conditions. The goal is to help you understand the challenges and opportunities in accessing medical care within this specific area, allowing for informed decisions about your health and well-being.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a primary concern. In Summerville, the primary healthcare provider is Redmond Regional Medical Center, located in Rome, approximately 25 miles away. This distance necessitates careful consideration of transportation options, especially for regular appointments or in case of an asthma exacerbation. The availability and efficiency of these options directly impact the "Asthma Score," a measure of the ease and reliability of reaching medical care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in this region. The primary route to Redmond Regional Medical Center involves navigating Highway 27, a major thoroughfare that connects Summerville to Rome. The drive, typically taking around 30-40 minutes under normal traffic conditions, can be significantly impacted by rush hour congestion, especially during weekday commutes.

Another route option involves using Highway 100 to connect with Highway 27. This alternative might offer slightly different traffic patterns, but it adds to the overall travel time. The condition of these highways, including potential potholes or construction zones, can also affect travel times and ride comfort, which is crucial for someone with asthma.

Local roads, such as Holland Street and Rome Street, provide access to residential areas and commercial districts within Summerville. While these routes may be shorter for local errands, they are not direct routes to the primary healthcare facility. The presence of traffic lights and stop signs on these roads can further contribute to travel time.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Summerville is limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the city or providing direct routes to Rome. This presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation solutions. For those with disabilities, including those with asthma, the lack of accessible public transportation poses a major challenge. The availability of ADA-compliant services, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is essential for ensuring equitable healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Summerville, offering a potential solution for transportation to medical appointments. However, the reliability of these services can be variable, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, are another option. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical facilities, often with trained medical personnel on board. However, these services are typically reserved for emergencies or patients with specific medical needs, and they can be expensive.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands may operate in the Summerville area. These include, but are not limited to, local ambulance services and regional medical transport companies. It is essential to research the availability and coverage areas of these services before moving to the area. Consider calling the local emergency number (911) to determine the local ambulance service and the medical transport options.

**Accessibility and the Asthma Score**

The “Asthma Score” is negatively impacted by the limited public transportation options and the reliance on private vehicles or ride-sharing. The availability of medical transport services can somewhat mitigate these challenges, but the cost and potential limitations of these services must be considered.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to delays in seeking medical care, missed appointments, and increased stress for individuals with asthma. This can exacerbate symptoms and negatively impact overall health outcomes.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

Beyond transportation, other factors influence healthcare access. The availability of specialized medical care for asthma, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is critical. The proximity of pharmacies to fill prescriptions is also important.

The ability to communicate effectively with healthcare providers is essential. This includes access to interpreters for non-English speakers and the availability of telehealth options for remote consultations.

**Moving to Summerville: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Summerville offers the appeal of a close-knit community and a lower cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas. However, individuals with asthma must carefully consider the transportation challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

The reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing, coupled with the limited public transit options, can create barriers to accessing timely and consistent medical care. It is essential to thoroughly research the availability of medical transport services, assess the potential costs, and consider the impact on your ability to manage your asthma effectively.

**Recommendations**

Before moving to Summerville, individuals with asthma should:

* **Assess their transportation needs:** Evaluate their ability to drive or the need for alternative transportation.
* **Research medical transport options:** Identify available services, their costs, and coverage areas.
* **Investigate healthcare provider availability:** Confirm the presence of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists.
* **Consider telehealth options:** Explore the availability of virtual consultations with healthcare providers.
* **Factor transportation costs into the budget:** Account for the expenses associated with driving, ride-sharing, or medical transport.
* **Plan for emergencies:** Develop a contingency plan for accessing medical care during asthma exacerbations.

By carefully considering these factors and proactively planning for healthcare access, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision about moving to Summerville and ensure their health and well-being. The “Asthma Score” in this context highlights the need for proactive planning and a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape.