30173, Silver Creek, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 30173, Silver Creek, Georgia is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.83 percent of residents in 30173 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center with a distance of 7.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Silver Creek (ZIP Code 30173)

Silver Creek, Georgia, nestled in the heart of Floyd County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 30173, focusing on the crucial aspect of transportation to healthcare facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, offering insights for those considering moving to Silver Creek and evaluating their healthcare needs.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Silver Creek is, undeniably, the automobile. The majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary routes to healthcare facilities in Rome, the county seat, involve navigating Highway 140 and Highway 27. Drive times to hospitals and clinics in Rome fluctuate depending on traffic conditions, which are generally moderate. During peak hours, particularly in the morning and late afternoon, congestion can add significant time to the commute, potentially impacting healthcare access, especially for urgent medical needs.

The most direct route to Redmond Regional Medical Center, a primary healthcare provider, is via Highway 140 East, merging onto Highway 27 South. This journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, the absence of sidewalks and bike lanes along these highways and roads limits alternative transportation options, underscoring the area’s dependence on personal vehicles.

Public transportation options in Silver Creek are limited. The Rome Transit Department (RTD) operates a bus system, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare access in Silver Creek. RTD Route 10, for example, provides service to areas in and around Rome, but its frequency and coverage are insufficient to offer a viable alternative for many Silver Creek residents. Furthermore, ADA accessibility on RTD buses is available, but the limited route network poses a challenge for those with mobility limitations.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offers another layer of transportation options. However, the presence of these services in Silver Creek is inconsistent. Ride availability is often dependent on driver presence and demand, potentially leading to longer wait times and higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This variability poses a challenge for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle, thus impacting their overall healthcare access.

Medical transportation services are available in the region. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other private ambulance services provide emergency and non-emergency medical transport. These services are essential for individuals requiring specialized care or those unable to travel independently. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in Silver Creek is moderate. While the proximity to Rome provides access to a range of healthcare facilities, the dependence on personal vehicles, limited public transit options, and inconsistent ride-sharing availability present challenges. The drive times are generally manageable, but traffic congestion and the lack of alternative transportation options can hinder access. The availability of medical transport services offers a safety net, but the associated costs can be a concern.

For individuals considering moving to Silver Creek, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the limited options. Those without access to a personal vehicle should be prepared to rely on ride-sharing services, which may require careful planning and budgeting. Understanding the availability and cost of medical transport services is also essential.

The overall health score is also influenced by the healthcare infrastructure in Rome. Redmond Regional Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, specialized clinics, and surgical facilities. Other healthcare providers, such as Harbin Clinic, also have a presence in Rome, providing primary care, specialist consultations, and diagnostic services. The quality of care provided by these facilities is generally high, but the ability to access these services depends on effective transportation.

The healthcare access landscape in Silver Creek is also affected by the demographics of the population. The elderly population, for example, may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to age-related mobility limitations and dependence on others for transportation. The availability of healthcare providers who accept Medicare and Medicaid is also a critical factor in determining the affordability of care for this segment of the population.

The ongoing development of healthcare infrastructure in Rome, including the expansion of hospital facilities and the addition of new clinics, is expected to enhance healthcare access for Silver Creek residents in the future. However, the effectiveness of these improvements will depend on the availability of accessible and affordable transportation options.

In conclusion, the overall health score for transportation to healthcare in Silver Creek (ZIP Code 30173) is moderate. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Rome is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and inconsistent ride-sharing availability present challenges. Residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and plan accordingly to ensure effective healthcare access. For those considering moving to Silver Creek, a detailed evaluation of these factors is essential to make an informed decision about their healthcare needs.