31309, Fleming, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 31309, Fleming, Georgia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.76 percent of residents in 31309 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Liberty Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.17 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 31309

Fleming, Georgia, nestled within ZIP Code 31309, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," examines the crucial aspect of transportation, a vital link between patients and the specialized care they require. It considers the drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a detailed picture of the journey to healthcare for residents. This information is especially critical for individuals considering moving to Fleming, offering a realistic assessment of their healthcare accessibility.

The primary determinant of the Lung Cancer Score is the time and ease of transportation to facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. This includes hospitals with oncology departments, specialized clinics, and radiation therapy centers. The analysis focuses on the most likely destinations for residents of 31309, factoring in both distance and the practical realities of navigating the local infrastructure.

The most direct route from Fleming to Savannah, the nearest major city with comprehensive medical facilities, involves traveling west on **Highway 17**. This is the most common artery for those seeking advanced medical care. The drive, typically covering approximately 30 miles, takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this travel time, making it crucial to factor in potential delays.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **Highway 84**, which offers a slightly longer route but can sometimes be less congested, especially during peak hours. This road offers a less direct but potentially faster alternative, especially if traffic on Highway 17 is heavy. The drive time on Highway 84 can range from 50 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic flow and the specific destination within Savannah.

Navigating the local roads, such as **Old Augusta Road** and **Flemington Road**, is essential for accessing local pharmacies, primary care physicians, and other essential services. These roads, while shorter in distance, are often narrow and can experience slower speeds. These roads are also crucial for accessing **Highway 17** and **Highway 84**.

Public transportation options in the 31309 ZIP code are limited. The Chatham Area Transit (CAT) system, serving Savannah and surrounding areas, does not extend directly into Fleming. Therefore, relying on CAT for transportation to cancer treatment centers is not a viable option. Residents would need to drive to a park-and-ride location or utilize other modes of transport to connect with the CAT system. This severely limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is particularly concerning for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which can cause debilitating side effects, making driving unsafe or impractical.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Savannah area and can provide an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Fleming may be less reliable, and the cost of frequent rides to and from Savannah can quickly become a significant financial burden. The availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and Liberty Medical Transport operate in the Savannah area and provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring patient safety and comfort. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing services.

The Lung Cancer Score for 31309 is significantly impacted by the limited public transit options. The reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services creates potential hurdles for healthcare access. The distance to Savannah, coupled with potential traffic delays, can add considerable stress and inconvenience to the already challenging experience of undergoing cancer treatment.

The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial lifeline for patients who cannot drive. However, the cost and pre-booking requirements can still present challenges. The overall healthcare access picture is further complicated by the lack of local specialized medical facilities within the 31309 ZIP code.

For individuals considering moving to Fleming, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of careful planning. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive, access ride-sharing services, or utilize medical transportation. Proximity to family or friends who can provide transportation support is also a critical factor.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, is not just about distance and drive times; it encompasses the entire journey to healthcare. It is a critical assessment of the infrastructure, resources, and support systems available to individuals facing a life-altering diagnosis. It underscores the importance of proactive planning and considering all available transportation options when evaluating healthcare access in Fleming, Georgia.