31789, Sumner, Georgia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 31789, Sumner, Georgia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.48 percent of residents in 31789 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Phoebe Worth Medical Center with a distance of 6.52 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 31789

The journey to healthcare in ZIP Code 31789, encompassing the town of Sumner, Georgia, is a complex tapestry woven with threads of rurality and limited transportation options. This write-up explores the challenges and opportunities facing residents managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention, by examining the available transportation infrastructure. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, all crucial elements in assessing healthcare access for those living with or moving to Sumner.

For residents of 31789, the nearest major medical centers are located in Albany, Georgia, a city approximately 20 miles to the east. This distance translates to a drive of roughly 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Albany. The primary route involves navigating Georgia Highway 300, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near Albany. Another option is to utilize US Highway 82, which offers a slightly longer but often less congested route.

The drive to Albany, though manageable for those with personal vehicles, presents a significant barrier for individuals without access to a car. Hypertension management necessitates regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist appointments. The absence of reliable transportation can lead to delayed care, missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. This is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Sumner, as it directly impacts their ability to effectively manage their hypertension.

Public transportation options in 31789 are severely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system, and the availability of buses is sporadic at best. This lack of public transportation further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, disabled, and low-income populations. The absence of accessible public transit, including ADA-compliant buses, significantly restricts healthcare access for those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Albany but their presence in Sumner is uncertain. Even if available, the cost of these services, especially for round trips to Albany, can be prohibitive for many residents. The reliance on ride-sharing, while offering a potential solution, is not a sustainable or affordable option for regular medical appointments and medication pick-ups. The cost of transportation becomes a significant factor in managing hypertension, potentially forcing individuals to choose between essential healthcare and other basic needs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, may be available in the area. However, the availability and cost of these services vary significantly. These services often require advance booking and can be costly, making them a less accessible option for those with limited financial resources. The need for medical transportation highlights the critical role of transportation in ensuring equitable healthcare access, particularly for those with chronic conditions like hypertension.

The challenges of accessing healthcare in 31789 extend beyond the physical distance to medical facilities. The lack of readily available transportation options creates a significant barrier to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and increased healthcare costs. The ability to effectively manage hypertension requires consistent access to medical professionals, medication, and other essential healthcare services.

For individuals considering moving to Sumner, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. The availability of a personal vehicle is almost essential for accessing healthcare services in a timely and reliable manner. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their ability to manage the transportation challenges associated with living in a rural area.

The hypertension score for 31789 is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation. The lack of public transit, the potential unavailability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score. This means that individuals with hypertension in this area face greater challenges in accessing the care they need to manage their condition effectively.

The community's overall health and well-being are directly linked to the availability and accessibility of healthcare services. Addressing the transportation challenges in 31789 is essential for improving healthcare access and outcomes for residents managing hypertension. This includes exploring options for expanding public transit, subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments, and increasing the availability of affordable medical transportation.

The challenges of healthcare access in 31789 underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare planning and delivery. This includes addressing the social determinants of health, such as transportation, to ensure that all residents have equal opportunities to achieve optimal health outcomes. The future of healthcare in Sumner hinges on a commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and addressing the unique challenges faced by its residents.

In conclusion, the hypertension score for 31789 is negatively affected by the limited transportation options. The drive to Albany, the absence of reliable public transit, the potential unavailability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation all contribute to this challenge. Addressing these transportation barriers is crucial for improving healthcare access and outcomes for residents managing hypertension and for making Sumner a more accessible and healthy community.