31764, Leslie, Georgia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 31764, Leslie, Georgia is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.19 percent of residents in 31764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Phoebe Sumter Medical Center with a distance of 12.44 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Leslie, Georgia (ZIP Code 31764)

The heart of a healthy community beats with consistent access to quality healthcare. In the rural landscape of Leslie, Georgia, within ZIP code 31764, this access is intrinsically linked to transportation. For residents managing hypertension, a condition demanding regular medical attention, understanding the available transportation options is paramount. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for 31764, considering the time and ease of reaching essential healthcare services. The assessment considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Leslie.

The primary healthcare provider for the area is Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, approximately 15 miles away. Driving to Americus from Leslie typically involves navigating Georgia Highway 280, a major east-west artery, and then connecting to US Highway 19. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, averages around 20-25 minutes. However, factors such as weather, particularly during the summer months when thunderstorms are frequent, or potential accidents on the highway, can significantly impact this travel time. This variability presents a challenge for individuals with hypertension, who may require prompt medical attention.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Sumter County Transit offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While this service provides a lifeline for some, it is not a frequent or readily available option. The service operates on a limited schedule, and its availability can be constrained by factors such as funding and driver availability. Individuals with hypertension, requiring regular appointments or experiencing sudden health events, may find this service inadequate. Furthermore, the service's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, including features like wheelchair lifts, is crucial for those with mobility challenges, but information about the specific features and availability needs to be readily accessible.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Americus and may extend their service area to Leslie. However, their availability is not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals on fixed incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The reliance on these services, coupled with their potential unreliability, contributes to a lower Hypertension Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like MedTrans Corporation and American Medical Response (AMR) may provide services to and from Leslie. These services often include specialized vehicles and trained personnel to ensure patient safety and comfort. However, medical transport is generally reserved for individuals with specific medical needs and can be expensive. The availability of these services and the associated costs must be considered when assessing the Hypertension Score.

Considering these factors, the Hypertension Score for 31764 reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation. This is especially true for individuals with hypertension, who require timely and consistent access to medical care.

The score is further influenced by the geographical distribution of healthcare providers. While Phoebe Sumter Medical Center is the primary facility, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and endocrinologists, may necessitate travel to larger cities like Albany or Columbus. This increases travel time and further complicates healthcare access. The ability to reach these specialized services is a critical factor in managing hypertension effectively.

The infrastructure of Leslie itself also plays a role. The condition of local roads, including secondary routes that may be used to access healthcare, can impact travel times and safety. Poor road maintenance, such as potholes or inadequate signage, can pose challenges, particularly for elderly residents or those with mobility issues.

The availability of pharmacies within the community is another crucial element. Access to medication is essential for managing hypertension. The presence of local pharmacies, or the ease of accessing pharmacies in nearby towns, is a positive factor in the Hypertension Score. This reduces the burden of travel for medication refills and allows for prompt access to necessary prescriptions.

For individuals considering moving to Leslie, the Hypertension Score provides a critical lens through which to assess the community's suitability. The availability and reliability of transportation options, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the cost of accessing care are all essential considerations. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare and lifestyle.

Improving the Hypertension Score in 31764 requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, potentially through increased funding and service frequency, is essential. This could include expanding the demand-response service or exploring the feasibility of fixed-route bus service. Promoting ride-sharing services through community partnerships and incentives could also improve access.

Furthermore, strengthening the local healthcare infrastructure is vital. This could involve attracting more healthcare providers to the area, including specialists, and supporting the development of telehealth services to provide remote consultations and monitoring. Community education programs focused on hypertension management and healthy lifestyles can also play a crucial role.

The Hypertension Score for 31764 is a dynamic measure, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of healthcare access. Continuous assessment and improvement are necessary to ensure that all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The journey to healthcare access in Leslie, Georgia, is a testament to the importance of community, collaboration, and a commitment to the well-being of all its residents.