31539, Hazlehurst, Georgia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 31539, Hazlehurst, Georgia is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.05 percent of residents in 31539 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jeff Davis Hospital with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hazlehurst, Georgia (ZIP Code 31539)

The air hangs thick and humid in Hazlehurst, Georgia, a characteristic of the coastal plain. This climate, coupled with potential environmental triggers, necessitates a keen understanding of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for residents of ZIP Code 31539, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities. We'll explore the realities of commuting to healthcare, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation methods. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Hazlehurst, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The foundation of any "Asthma Score" lies in evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach medical care. In Hazlehurst, the primary healthcare provider is Jeff Davis Hospital, located at 1600 West Jeff Davis Street. This facility offers a range of services, including emergency care and specialist referrals, making it the cornerstone of healthcare access in the community.

**Driving the Distance:**

For those who drive, the journey to Jeff Davis Hospital is relatively straightforward. From most residential areas within 31539, the primary route involves navigating local roads and highways. The most common route utilizes US Highway 23, which runs north-south through the heart of Hazlehurst. Depending on the starting point, residents might also use Georgia Highway 19, which intersects with US 23.

Drive times, however, can vary significantly. During peak traffic hours, typically weekday mornings and afternoons, congestion around the town square can add several minutes to the commute. Generally, a drive from the outskirts of Hazlehurst should take no more than 10-15 minutes. However, residents living further out, closer to rural areas, might face a 20-25 minute drive, especially if relying on secondary roads.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Hazlehurst is limited, presenting a significant challenge for those who do not drive or have access to a vehicle. The local transit system, if it exists, likely operates on a demand-response basis or offers very limited fixed routes. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features needs to be confirmed with local authorities. Without readily available public transit, individuals with asthma, particularly those experiencing exacerbations, face significant hurdles in reaching medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in Hazlehurst, though their reliability and availability can be variable. The presence of these services often depends on driver density, which can fluctuate. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or requiring specialized care, offer another avenue. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel to assist with patient needs. Investigating the availability of medical transport providers in the area is crucial. Companies like First Medical Transportation or MedStar Transportation might serve the region.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Perspective:**

The "Asthma Score" for Hazlehurst (31539) reflects the interplay of these factors. The relatively short drive times to Jeff Davis Hospital offer a degree of accessibility for those with personal vehicles. However, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services significantly diminish the score, especially for individuals with transportation limitations.

The score should also consider the availability of pharmacies and other healthcare resources within the community. Easy access to medication refills and emergency care is vital for asthma management. Additionally, the presence of asthma specialists, pulmonologists, and allergy clinics in the area influences the overall score. The closer these resources are, the better the score.

**Moving to Hazlehurst: Considerations for Asthma Sufferers:**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Hazlehurst, a thorough assessment of transportation options is paramount. Evaluate the feasibility of driving or securing reliable transportation. Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers. Confirm the existence of local public transit and its accessibility features.

In addition to transportation, prospective residents should consider the local environment. The climate, with its high humidity, can be a trigger for asthma symptoms. Identifying potential allergens in the area, such as pollen and mold, is also crucial.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare access in Hazlehurst, Georgia (31539) requires a multifaceted approach. While the drive to Jeff Davis Hospital is relatively short for many, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges for individuals with asthma. A comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment must consider all transportation options, environmental factors, and the availability of healthcare resources. For those considering moving to Hazlehurst, a proactive approach to understanding and addressing these factors is essential for managing asthma effectively and ensuring access to the care needed to thrive.