30102, Acworth, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 30102, Acworth, Georgia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.96 percent of residents in 30102 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center with a distance of 9.63 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 30102 (Acworth, GA)

For those considering a move to Acworth, Georgia (ZIP code 30102), understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessing the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, offering a comprehensive view for prospective residents. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a detailed picture of what to expect when seeking medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single numerical value but a holistic evaluation. It considers factors like travel time, mode availability, accessibility features, and the presence of diverse healthcare providers. A higher score indicates easier and more reliable access to medical services, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. This evaluation aims to inform individuals and families about the realities of healthcare access within the context of their daily commutes.

Acworth, a charming city nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains, presents a unique transportation challenge. Its suburban character, while appealing, often translates to a reliance on personal vehicles. This impacts healthcare access directly, with drive times being a significant factor in determining the ease and speed of reaching medical facilities.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. Residents primarily rely on their cars to navigate the region, and the efficiency of this system is crucial for healthcare access. The primary arteries for travel include Interstate 75 (I-75), a major north-south thoroughfare, and State Route 92 (SR-92), a key east-west route. The proximity to I-75 is a double-edged sword. While it offers quick access to hospitals and specialists in Atlanta, it also contributes to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. SR-92 provides local connectivity, but it, too, can become congested, especially near commercial areas.

The drive time to healthcare facilities varies significantly based on location within 30102 and the specific destination. For instance, reaching Wellstar Paulding Hospital in Hiram, a common destination for residents, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic on SR-92. Driving to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta, a larger facility with a broader range of specialists, could take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, often involving travel on I-75. Shorter trips to urgent care clinics or primary care physicians within Acworth, such as those located along Main Street, may only require a 5 to 15-minute drive.

Public transportation options in Acworth are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. CobbLinc, the county's public transit system, provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are not extensive. Route 10, which runs along Cobb Parkway, offers a connection to Marietta and the wider MARTA (MetroMetropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) system. However, this route is less convenient for direct access to healthcare facilities within Acworth.

The CobbLinc system, while offering ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible buses, may still present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, making it difficult to schedule appointments or access emergency care. The walk from a bus stop to a medical facility can also be a barrier for some. The lack of extensive public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation options for healthcare access in 30102.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially improving healthcare access, especially for those unable to drive or without access to a car. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The reliability of these services is also a factor, as delays or cancellations can impact appointment schedules.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services cater to individuals with mobility challenges or those who require assistance during their journey. While these services can be a valuable resource, they typically require advance booking and may have associated costs.

The availability of healthcare providers within Acworth itself is a positive factor. Several primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics are located within the ZIP code, reducing the need for long-distance travel for routine medical needs. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, may necessitate travel to larger hospitals in Marietta or Atlanta. This highlights the importance of considering the full range of healthcare needs when evaluating the transportation landscape.

The "Overall Health Score" for 30102 reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. However, the presence of local healthcare providers and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer some mitigation. The proximity to major highways like I-75 allows for relatively quick access to larger hospitals and specialists in the Atlanta area.

For those considering moving to Acworth, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the limitations of the CobbLinc system and consider alternative transportation options. Those with personal vehicles will likely find healthcare access more convenient, but they should factor in potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours.

In conclusion, while 30102 offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, the transportation landscape presents some hurdles to healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" is moderate, with the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options. The best approach is to research the location of healthcare providers, assess the availability of transportation options, and plan accordingly. For anyone moving to Acworth, understanding the realities of healthcare access, including the impact of transportation, is key to ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining good health.