31309, Fleming, Georgia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 31309, Fleming, Georgia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.76 percent of residents in 31309 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Liberty Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.17 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 31309

Fleming, Georgia, nestled within ZIP code 31309, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding **healthcare access**, particularly for residents managing hypertension. Assessing the ease with which individuals can access necessary medical care, including regular check-ups and medication refills, is crucial for managing this chronic condition. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, will delve into the **transportation** landscape of 31309, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to provide a comprehensive understanding of the barriers and facilitators to healthcare for those living in or **moving to Fleming**.

The cornerstone of any hypertension management plan is consistent medical care. This includes regular blood pressure monitoring, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments. The ability to easily reach a healthcare provider is therefore paramount. In 31309, the primary mode of **transportation** is the personal vehicle. The geography of the area necessitates this, with limited public transit options and a sprawling layout.

Driving to healthcare facilities in the surrounding area, primarily in Hinesville and Richmond Hill, forms the basis of the "Hypertension Score." From Fleming, the drive to Liberty Regional Medical Center in Hinesville, the closest major hospital, involves navigating US Highway 84 East. The drive, typically 15-20 minutes in light traffic, can extend significantly during peak hours, adding stress for individuals with hypertension. Traffic congestion can exacerbate the condition, making prompt and stress-free travel crucial.

Accessing specialists or more comprehensive care might necessitate a longer journey. For example, a trip to Savannah, approximately an hour away, would involve traversing Interstate 95 South. This longer commute increases the risk of delays and adds to the overall burden of healthcare access. The condition of the roadways and the potential for accidents also contribute to the overall **transportation** challenges.

Public transit options in 31309 are limited. The Coastal Regional **Transportation** Authority (CRTA) provides some service, but its routes and frequency are not designed to serve the specific needs of healthcare access in the area. Route 10, for instance, might offer a connection to Hinesville, but its schedule and stops are unlikely to align perfectly with medical appointments. The CRTA website does not currently specify ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features for all routes, making it difficult for those with mobility issues to utilize the service.

Furthermore, the lack of dedicated routes to medical facilities and the infrequent service make public transit a less viable option for many residents, especially those with complex medical needs. The limited reach of public **transportation** underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative modes of travel.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 31309 area, but their reliability and cost can vary. While these services offer a convenient option, especially for those without access to a car, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals on fixed incomes or those with limited financial resources, potentially impacting their ability to afford regular medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services, often provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or local providers, can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services, the insurance coverage, and the associated costs must be considered. The process of arranging and coordinating medical **transportation** can also be complex, adding another layer of difficulty for patients.

The "Hypertension Score" for 31309, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Hinesville provides some access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services create challenges for residents managing hypertension.

For individuals **moving to Fleming**, the availability of reliable **transportation** should be a primary consideration when evaluating healthcare access. The ability to drive, or the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical **transportation**, is crucial. Planning for potential delays, traffic congestion, and the costs associated with travel is essential for successful hypertension management.

The overall "Hypertension Score" in 31309 is moderately challenging. The score reflects the need for careful planning, proactive **transportation** arrangements, and a strong support system to ensure consistent access to healthcare. The score would improve with increased public transit options, including dedicated routes to medical facilities, and greater affordability and availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. Furthermore, promoting community-based programs that offer support for individuals managing hypertension, such as medication reminders or transportation assistance, can significantly improve the quality of life for residents in 31309.

Ultimately, successful hypertension management in 31309 requires a multi-faceted approach that considers the individual's specific needs, the available **transportation** options, and the support systems in place to facilitate access to healthcare. This "Hypertension Score" assessment provides a starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities in this area.