31551, Mershon, Georgia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 31551, Mershon, Georgia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.99 percent of residents in 31551 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bacon County Hospital with a distance of 11.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mershon (ZIP Code 31551)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is a critical factor influencing health outcomes. In Mershon, Georgia (ZIP Code 31551), the accessibility of medical care is significantly shaped by transportation options. This analysis, the "Hypertension Score," assesses the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial elements for those **moving to Mershon** or already residing there, especially those with hypertension. **Healthcare access** directly impacts the ability to adhere to treatment plans, receive timely interventions, and ultimately, maintain control over blood pressure.

The primary arteries of **transportation** in and around Mershon are US Highway 84 and US Highway 1. These roadways offer the most direct routes to healthcare facilities. The closest major medical center, Appling Healthcare System, is located in Baxley, approximately 15 miles west of Mershon. A drive along US-84 West typically takes around 20-25 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This drive time is generally manageable for routine appointments and medication refills. However, during peak hours, or in the event of accidents, the journey could extend, potentially impacting adherence to prescribed medication schedules.

For those residing in the more rural areas of Mershon, accessing US-84 can add significant time to the overall travel duration. Secondary roads, such as Mershon-Baxley Road and Bacon County Road, provide access points, but these routes often involve slower speeds and may not be as well-maintained. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can further exacerbate travel times and pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those reliant on less robust vehicles.

Public transit options within ZIP Code 31551 are limited. The primary mode of public transportation in this area is provided by the Southeast Georgia Regional Transit Authority (SGRTA). However, service frequency and route coverage in Mershon are restricted. Currently, there are no fixed-route bus services that directly serve Mershon. Residents rely on demand-response services, which require advance booking and are subject to availability.

These demand-response services, while offering a lifeline for those without personal vehicles, often necessitate extended travel times. The booking process, coupled with potential wait times, can make it challenging to schedule appointments or respond to urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, crucial for individuals with disabilities, is dependent on the specific requests made during booking. The reliability and efficiency of this service are paramount for ensuring equitable **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Baxley area, but their presence in Mershon is less consistent. Availability can be influenced by driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing necessitates careful planning and scheduling, particularly for appointments scheduled outside of peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals on fixed incomes or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services are another crucial component of healthcare access, particularly for patients requiring specialized care or those unable to travel independently. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering services ranging from non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to ambulance services. These services are essential for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and pre-authorization may be required depending on insurance coverage.

The "Hypertension Score" for Mershon, therefore, reflects a mixed landscape. While the proximity to Baxley and the presence of major roadways offer relatively quick access to the nearest hospital, the limitations in public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the variable availability of medical transport create challenges. For individuals with hypertension, these factors can directly affect their ability to attend appointments, pick up medications, and receive necessary medical attention.

The absence of robust public transit options necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport. This situation poses a particular burden for those without access to a car, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. The **moving to Mershon** decision should include careful consideration of these **transportation** limitations, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions.

The "Hypertension Score" should be viewed as a dynamic assessment. Improvements in public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, and expanded medical transport options would all contribute to a higher score and improved **healthcare access** for residents of Mershon. Furthermore, community initiatives focused on promoting healthy lifestyles and providing resources for managing chronic conditions can play a vital role in improving health outcomes.

In conclusion, while Mershon offers access to essential healthcare services, the accessibility of these services is significantly impacted by **transportation** constraints. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** for all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is a critical determinant of health outcomes, and this factor should be carefully considered by anyone **moving to Mershon**.