31005, Bonaire, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31005, Bonaire, Georgia is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.55 percent of residents in 31005 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Houston Healthcare with a distance of 5.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 31005

This report provides an overall health score assessment for residents of ZIP Code 31005 (Bonaire, Georgia), focusing on the critical aspect of **healthcare access** as it relates to **transportation**. Evaluating the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount in understanding the overall health of the community. This analysis considers various **transportation** options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, examining their availability, accessibility, and efficiency.

Bonaire, a rapidly growing suburban community, presents a unique challenge in terms of healthcare access. While the area offers a pleasant residential environment, its proximity to larger medical centers and specialized care facilities in nearby cities like Warner Robins and Perry is crucial. The distance, coupled with potential traffic congestion and limited public transportation, significantly impacts the overall health score.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Bonaire residents is the personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare in this area necessitates navigating the local road network, predominantly consisting of **Highway 247** (Watson Boulevard) and **Highway 96**. Driving times to major healthcare providers fluctuate based on traffic patterns, time of day, and the specific location within Bonaire.

For instance, a drive to Houston Healthcare in Warner Robins via **Highway 247** typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes under normal conditions. However, during peak hours, particularly morning and evening commutes, this drive time can easily extend to 30 minutes or more. Similarly, reaching Perry Hospital in Perry, traveling primarily on **Highway 96**, usually requires a 20-30 minute drive, again subject to traffic fluctuations. Residents closer to the western side of Bonaire might find Perry Hospital more accessible, while those on the eastern side might favor Houston Healthcare.

Specialized medical care, such as those offered by specialists or at larger facilities, often necessitates travel further afield. The Medical Center, Navicent Health in Macon, a regional referral center, requires a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, mainly utilizing **Interstate 75**. This longer commute significantly impacts the health score, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent specialist visits.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation options in Bonaire and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Houston County Public Transit system. However, service frequency and route coverage are restricted, especially within Bonaire itself. While the system does provide some access to key destinations like Houston Healthcare and shopping centers, its routes are often indirect and infrequent, making it a less viable option for many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor in assessing the health score. The Houston County Public Transit system strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps and other accommodations for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and potential wait times can still pose challenges for those relying on public transit for healthcare access. Route numbers and schedules should be checked for specific availability.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive. However, availability in Bonaire can be inconsistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs. This can create a barrier to healthcare access, especially for low-income residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. Companies like First Response Medical Transportation and others provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility issues or other medical needs. While these services offer a valuable solution, their cost can be substantial, and prior booking is often required.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 31005 is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, particularly during peak hours, impacts the efficiency of healthcare access. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create additional challenges.

The cost and availability of medical transport services are also critical considerations. The distance to specialized care facilities and regional referral centers further complicates the situation. Residents considering **moving to Bonaire** should factor in these transportation challenges when evaluating their overall health and well-being.

The community's health score can be improved by several measures. Expanding public transportation routes and increasing service frequency would enhance accessibility for a broader range of residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs or offering subsidies for transportation costs could also help. Furthermore, encouraging the development of more local healthcare facilities, including primary care clinics and specialist offices, would reduce the need for long-distance travel.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 31005 reflects a mixed picture. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and potential traffic congestion create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some relief, but cost and availability remain concerns.

To improve the health score, the community needs to focus on enhancing transportation options, expanding local healthcare services, and ensuring that all residents, regardless of their income or mobility, can readily access the care they need. This is particularly important for those **moving to Bonaire** to ensure they can maintain their health and well-being in their new community.