31315, Fort Stewart, Georgia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 31315, Fort Stewart, Georgia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.23 percent of residents in 31315 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Winn Ach (Ft Stewart) with a distance of 1.08 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 31315

This analysis provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP Code 31315, focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access, particularly for those managing hypertension. It examines the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone living in or considering moving to Fort Stewart, as timely and reliable access to healthcare is paramount in managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The score will consider the ease with which individuals can reach healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other essential medical resources. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities present within the transportation network, ultimately informing decisions about healthcare management and residential choices.

ZIP Code 31315, encompassing portions of Fort Stewart and the surrounding areas, presents a unique transportation environment. While the military base offers some internal resources, residents often need to travel outside its boundaries for specialized care or pharmacy services. The availability and efficiency of transportation options directly impact healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without personal vehicles.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary roadways serving ZIP Code 31315 are critical for accessing healthcare. The primary artery is **Highway 144**, which acts as a major thoroughfare, connecting Fort Stewart to Hinesville and beyond. Drive times to healthcare facilities in Hinesville, the primary medical hub for the area, are generally manageable, typically ranging from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

**Highway 84** also plays a significant role, offering access to facilities east of Fort Stewart. Travel times along this route can vary, with potential delays during peak hours. **Highway 119**, though less direct, provides an alternative route, particularly for residents in the western parts of the ZIP Code. Local roads, such as **Veterans Parkway** and various residential streets, feed into these major highways, contributing to overall accessibility.

The driving experience itself is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion can occur, especially during peak commuting times and around the base gates. This underscores the importance of considering drive times when scheduling appointments and planning medication refills.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Essential Option**

Public transit in ZIP Code 31315 is available, but its scope is limited. The **Liberty County Transit System** provides bus services, offering routes that connect various points within Hinesville and the surrounding areas. While these routes can be a viable option for some residents, they may not directly serve all healthcare facilities or offer frequent service, especially during evenings and weekends.

The system's accessibility features, including ADA-compliant buses, are essential for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route network and potential for longer travel times compared to driving can pose challenges for those with hypertension, who may require frequent medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area and offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This can be a significant concern for individuals needing urgent medical attention or those with limited mobility.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, provide a valuable resource. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) offer door-to-door service, ensuring safe and reliable transportation to and from medical appointments. These services are often equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility aids and provide assistance with boarding and disembarking.

**Pharmacies and Healthcare Providers: Mapping the Landscape**

Access to pharmacies and healthcare providers is a crucial element of the Hypertension Score. Several pharmacies, including national chains and local options, are located within and near ZIP Code 31315. Their proximity and operating hours are important considerations for medication adherence.

A range of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics, are available in the area. The location of these facilities relative to residential areas and the availability of transportation options directly impact healthcare access.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 31315 incorporates all these factors. It is not a single numerical value but rather a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension.

The score considers the following key elements:

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** The average drive time to the nearest primary care physician, pharmacy, and specialist.
* **Public Transit Efficiency:** The frequency, route coverage, and accessibility features of the local bus system.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** The presence and responsiveness of medical transport services.
* **Pharmacy Proximity and Hours:** The location and operating hours of pharmacies.
* **Healthcare Provider Density:** The number and types of healthcare providers in the area.

**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**

The Hypertension Score provides valuable insights for both current residents and those considering moving to Fort Stewart. For individuals with hypertension, it highlights the importance of:

* Choosing a residence with convenient access to essential healthcare resources.
* Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential need for alternative transportation options.
* Exploring the availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* Establishing a reliable system for medication refills and doctor's appointments.

For prospective movers, the score offers a realistic assessment of the healthcare access landscape, allowing them to make informed decisions about their relocation. Understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities can help them prioritize healthcare access when selecting a home and planning their daily routines.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 31315 underscores the importance of transportation in ensuring timely and reliable healthcare access. While the area offers a range of transportation options, including roadways, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, each presents unique challenges and opportunities.

By carefully considering these factors, residents can proactively manage their healthcare needs, ensuring that hypertension and other chronic conditions are effectively addressed. The score serves as a valuable tool for promoting healthcare access and improving the overall quality of life for individuals living in or moving to the Fort Stewart area.