31744, Doerun, Georgia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 31744, Doerun, Georgia is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.34 percent of residents in 31744 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Phoebe Worth Medical Center with a distance of 13.81 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 31744**

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, demands a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 31744 (Doerun, Georgia), assesses the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access, crucial information for current residents and those considering moving to Doerun.

The ability to swiftly reach a healthcare provider is paramount for managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and prompt responses to health concerns are all essential. The transportation infrastructure directly impacts the ability to adhere to these critical aspects of care.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Doerun are US Highway 82 and Georgia State Route 133. The distance to the nearest hospitals and specialized clinics significantly impacts the hypertension score.

Colquitt Regional Medical Center in Moultrie, approximately 15 miles south, is a crucial healthcare hub. The drive along US-82 East typically takes around 20-25 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise from agricultural traffic, particularly during harvest seasons.

For residents seeking specialized care, the drive to Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital in Albany, about 40 miles west, is a longer journey. This route involves traveling west on US-82, then south on Georgia State Route 300, and finally east on US-82 again. Expect a drive time of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer commute presents a greater challenge for individuals with hypertension, particularly during emergencies.

Smaller clinics and physician offices within the region, such as those in Moultrie, may offer more convenient access. However, the availability of specialized services may be limited compared to larger hospitals.

**Public Transit Challenges**

Public transportation options in Doerun and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The Southwest Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (SGRTA) provides some public transportation services in the broader region, but its routes and frequency are not designed to serve the specific needs of Doerun residents effectively. There are no direct, regularly scheduled routes that connect Doerun to major healthcare facilities.

The lack of readily available public transit underscores the challenges faced by individuals with hypertension who rely on alternative transportation methods. The absence of ADA-accessible buses or routes further exacerbates these difficulties for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence may be sporadic, and the availability of drivers can vary. Relying on ride-sharing for routine medical appointments can be costly and unreliable, especially in a rural area.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like FirstMed Ambulance Service and other regional providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be arranged in advance for scheduled appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, adding another layer of financial burden for individuals managing hypertension.

**The Hypertension Score and Implications**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 31744 reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score is influenced by drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport.

Based on this analysis, the hypertension score for Doerun is moderately low. The drive times to hospitals and clinics are manageable, but the lack of public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport present significant challenges.

This score highlights the need for individuals with hypertension to carefully consider their transportation options when planning their healthcare needs. Those considering moving to Doerun should factor in the potential challenges of accessing medical care.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in Doerun requires a multifaceted approach.

* **Advocating for Public Transit:** Increased investment in public transportation, including expanded routes and more frequent service, is crucial. This would improve access for those without personal vehicles and provide a more affordable alternative to ride-sharing or medical transport.
* **Promoting Ride-Sharing:** Encouraging ride-sharing services to expand their presence in the area can improve accessibility. Incentives for drivers and educational campaigns to increase awareness could prove beneficial.
* **Supporting Medical Transport:** Ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport services, including options for individuals with limited financial resources, is essential.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Expanding telehealth services can help bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management.
* **Community Outreach:** Educating residents about available transportation options and resources is vital. This includes providing information on ride-sharing services, medical transport, and financial assistance programs.

By addressing these challenges, the community can improve the hypertension score and ensure that residents of Doerun have access to the healthcare they need to manage their condition effectively. The health and well-being of the community depend on it.