31789, Sumner, Georgia Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 31789, Sumner, Georgia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.48 percent of residents in 31789 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Phoebe Worth Medical Center with a distance of 6.52 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 31789

Imagine a diagnosis. Imagine the fear, the uncertainty, the immediate need for comprehensive care. Now, imagine the added burden of navigating the *transportation* landscape to access that care. In ZIP Code 31789, a rural corner of Georgia, this is a reality for many. This write-up aims to assess the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents, focusing on *healthcare access* through the lens of available *transportation* options. This information is crucial for anyone *moving to Sumner* or currently residing in the area, as timely and convenient access to medical services is paramount.

The primary challenge in 31789 is its remoteness. Sumner, a small town in Worth County, is surrounded by farmland, limiting immediate access to specialized medical facilities. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Albany, approximately 20 miles away, and Tifton, about 30 miles distant. These distances, while seemingly manageable, become significant when considering the potential for frequent appointments, treatments, and the physical toll of battling breast cancer.

The most common mode of *transportation* in this area is personal vehicles. Driving is the default, and the primary routes to Albany involve navigating US Highway 82 and US Highway 19. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic, particularly during peak hours. Residents must also factor in the cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential wear and tear on their cars, all adding to the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis. The drive to Tifton utilizes US Highway 82 and Georgia State Route 125.

Public *transportation* options are extremely limited. Worth County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The closest option might be a regional service, but the frequency of routes, and the distance to the nearest pick-up location, would likely render it impractical for regular medical appointments. The absence of a reliable public transit system significantly impacts those who cannot drive, are unable to afford a car, or are physically impaired by their condition or its treatment.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. Even if a limited public transit option existed, the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses or vans is uncertain. For patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, mobility can be severely restricted. The lack of accessible *transportation* creates a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for a vulnerable population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not consistent. Availability is heavily dependent on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services can be questionable, leaving patients stranded or late for crucial medical appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including CareRide and MedRide. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, often not fully covered by insurance, adding another financial burden for patients.

The Breast Cancer Score for 31789, therefore, is negatively impacted by the lack of robust *transportation* options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical *transportation* services all contribute to a challenging environment for patients seeking *healthcare access*.

The impact of these *transportation* limitations extends beyond the physical act of getting to appointments. It affects the emotional well-being of patients. The stress of arranging *transportation*, the fear of being late, and the financial strain of travel can exacerbate the anxiety and depression often associated with a cancer diagnosis. These factors can also lead to missed appointments, delayed treatments, and a poorer overall prognosis.

For individuals *moving to Sumner*, the *transportation* challenges are a critical consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their ability to manage the travel requirements associated with potential healthcare needs. This includes assessing their access to a reliable vehicle, their financial capacity to cover *transportation* costs, and their ability to navigate the logistical complexities of arranging appointments and travel.

The Breast Cancer Score in 31789 is not simply about the distance to the nearest hospital. It is about the entire network of *transportation* services, the accessibility of those services, and the financial and emotional burdens they place on patients. It is about ensuring that all residents, regardless of their *transportation* limitations, have equal access to the life-saving care they need.

Improving the Breast Cancer Score in this area requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public *transportation*, including accessible buses and vans, is essential. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments could significantly reduce costs. Expanding the availability of medical *transportation* services and advocating for greater insurance coverage for these services are also critical steps.

Furthermore, telehealth services can play a vital role. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors, receive counseling, and access educational resources from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for frequent travel. Expanding broadband internet access in rural areas is crucial to support the growth of telehealth services.

The Breast Cancer Score in 31789 is a call to action. It highlights the urgent need for improved *transportation* infrastructure and expanded access to healthcare resources. It underscores the importance of community collaboration, innovative solutions, and a commitment to ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive the best possible care, regardless of their geographic location or *transportation* limitations. This is especially important for those *moving to Sumner* who may not be aware of these limitations.