31321, Pembroke, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31321, Pembroke, Georgia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.57 percent of residents in 31321 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Evans Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 31321

Considering a move to Pembroke, Georgia (ZIP Code 31321)? Evaluating the overall health score is crucial, and a significant factor in this assessment is the accessibility of healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access within and surrounding this rural community, providing insights into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. Understanding these elements is vital for making an informed decision about your health and well-being.

The primary consideration is the distance to essential healthcare services. Pembroke itself offers limited immediate options. The nearest hospital, **Candler County Hospital**, is a drive away. This drive, primarily along **Highway 280** and then transitioning onto **Highway 67**, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. While this might seem manageable, unexpected delays due to accidents or roadwork can significantly impact this timeframe, particularly in emergency situations. This highlights the importance of understanding alternative routes and potential delays.

Further afield, the city of Savannah, approximately an hour’s drive, provides a wider range of specialized medical facilities. Reaching Savannah necessitates navigating **Highway 67** to connect with **Interstate 16 (I-16)**, a major east-west artery. From there, access to hospitals like **Memorial Health University Medical Center** or **St. Joseph's/Candler Health System** is relatively straightforward. However, this commute, especially during peak hours, can be a significant time commitment, potentially impacting the ability to attend routine appointments or manage chronic conditions effectively.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 31321 are limited. The **Coastal Regional Commission (CRC)**, the regional transit authority, provides some services. However, routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily serving the needs of the elderly, disabled, and low-income populations. These routes often require advance booking and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, crucial for individuals with mobility challenges, varies depending on the specific route and reservation. The CRC’s website is the best source for current route information and ADA accessibility details.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Pembroke, but their reliability and cost can fluctuate. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which is less consistent in rural areas. During peak hours or in times of high demand, surge pricing can significantly increase the cost of a ride. Moreover, the availability of specialized transportation services for medical appointments, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is even more limited. Therefore, relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be risky, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for healthcare appointments, offer a more reliable option, but their availability and cost must be factored in. Companies like **CareRide** or local providers may offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. However, they provide a more dependable option, especially for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have complex medical needs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 31321 is, therefore, moderate. While the proximity to Candler County Hospital provides a degree of immediate care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The longer commute to Savannah for specialized care further complicates the situation. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers alternative solutions, but their reliability and cost must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Pembroke, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is paramount. Those with chronic conditions or frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the impact of travel times and transportation options on their ability to access care. Exploring the availability of home healthcare services and telehealth options can also mitigate the challenges of long commutes.

The decision to move to a new location is complex. The health score, including transportation and healthcare access, plays a critical role in the overall assessment. Understanding the limitations and potential challenges associated with healthcare access in ZIP Code 31321 is essential for making an informed decision that supports your health and well-being.