31714, Ashburn, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 31714, Ashburn, Georgia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.49 percent of residents in 31714 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Phoebe Worth Medical Center with a distance of 17.07 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ashburn, GA (ZIP Code 31714)

The specter of lung cancer looms, a chilling reality for many. In Ashburn, Georgia (ZIP code 31714), access to timely and effective healthcare, particularly for this devastating disease, hinges on the complex web of **transportation** options available. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, considering factors like drive times, public transit, and alternative **transportation** solutions. This is crucial information for anyone considering **moving to Ashburn**, as proximity to quality healthcare is a paramount concern.

Ashburn, a relatively small town, presents both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to healthcare **access**. The primary challenge is the limited availability of specialized medical facilities within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel to larger cities for advanced diagnostics, treatment, and specialized care. This score will help you understand the nuances of navigating this reality.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

The most common mode of **transportation** for residents of Ashburn is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The primary route to major healthcare centers involves navigating the network of highways and roads. The most direct route to Tift Regional Medical Center in Tifton, a significant healthcare provider, typically involves taking US-41 North. This drive, under normal traffic conditions, usually takes approximately 30-45 minutes, covering a distance of roughly 30 miles.

Further afield, the journey to Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital in Albany, a larger regional medical center, involves a longer drive. The most direct route utilizes GA-300 South, often followed by US-82 East. This trip can take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering approximately 60 miles. The variability in drive times highlights the impact of traffic, which can be particularly heavy during peak hours.

For those requiring specialized care, such as oncology services or advanced imaging, the drive to facilities in Macon or even Atlanta becomes necessary. These longer journeys underscore the importance of reliable **transportation** and careful planning, especially for individuals facing the physical and emotional challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transit options in Ashburn and the surrounding areas are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. There is no city bus system.

The lack of frequent or reliable public transit means individuals with mobility limitations, or those who cannot drive, face considerable challenges in reaching medical appointments. This situation underscores the need for alternative **transportation** solutions and community support systems. The absence of ADA-compliant features on any public transit options exacerbates these challenges.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ashburn, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. This is an important consideration for anyone **moving to Ashburn**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility, and can accommodate medical equipment. Several medical **transportation** companies operate in the region, including but not limited to: First Medical Transport and American Medical Response.

However, the cost of medical **transportation** can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Understanding insurance coverage for these services is crucial for patients.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Ashburn, GA (31714) reflects a nuanced picture of **healthcare access**. While the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers some relief, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose significant challenges.

The score considers several factors:

* **Drive Time to Healthcare Facilities:** The average drive time to Tift Regional Medical Center (30-45 minutes) and Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital (1 hour - 1 hour 15 minutes).
* **Public Transit Availability:** The absence of a robust public transit system.
* **Ride-Share Reliability:** The variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of medical **transportation** services.
* **Community Support:** The availability of community resources, such as volunteer driver programs or patient assistance programs.

Based on these factors, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Ashburn, GA (31714) is moderate. While the proximity to Tift Regional Medical Center offers some convenience, the longer distances to larger hospitals and the limitations of public transit create barriers to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or without personal vehicles.

**Implications for Moving to Ashburn**

For individuals considering **moving to Ashburn**, this score underscores the importance of carefully evaluating their healthcare needs and **transportation** options. Proximity to family or friends who can provide **transportation** assistance can be invaluable. Investigating insurance coverage for medical **transportation** services is also highly recommended.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access** in Ashburn, GA (31714). While the area offers a sense of community, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration, especially for those facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provides crucial support, but their cost and reliability should be factored into any assessment. Ultimately, informed planning and proactive measures are essential for ensuring timely and effective healthcare in this community.