31406, Savannah, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31406, Savannah, Georgia is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.13 percent of residents in 31406 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Georgia Regional Hosp Savannah with a distance of 0.94 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 31406 (Savannah, GA)

This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access within Savannah’s 31406 ZIP code, encompassing transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for those considering moving to Savannah or evaluating their current access.

The 31406 ZIP code, encompassing portions of downtown Savannah and its surrounding neighborhoods, presents a unique transportation landscape. The historic nature of the area, coupled with increasing urban development, shapes the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare. Understanding these nuances is crucial for assessing the overall health and well-being of the community.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents in 31406. The efficiency of this option heavily relies on the road network. Major thoroughfares like **Interstate 16 (I-16)**, the primary east-west artery, and **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, which runs north-south, are vital for accessing healthcare facilities located further afield.

Reaching **Memorial Health University Medical Center**, a major regional hospital, typically involves navigating through downtown streets and onto **Abercorn Street (Highway 17)**. During peak hours, this commute can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, potentially extending travel times. Similarly, accessing hospitals on the south side of Savannah, such as those near **Bacon Park**, requires navigating busy roads like **White Bluff Road** and **Skidaway Road**.

Drive times to urgent care facilities and primary care physicians within the ZIP code itself are generally shorter, typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific location and time of day. However, the proximity to these facilities does not guarantee accessibility; factors like parking availability and the patient's physical condition must also be considered.

**Public Transit Accessibility:**

The **Chatham Area Transit (CAT)** system provides public transportation within Savannah. Several bus routes serve the 31406 ZIP code, offering an alternative to driving, especially for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid traffic.

Specific routes, such as **Route 10 (Abercorn Express)** and **Route 14 (Bull Street)**, provide access to major healthcare providers and medical offices. These routes run frequently, offering a degree of flexibility for scheduling appointments.

However, the CAT system, while improving, presents some challenges. Service frequency can vary depending on the route and time of day, potentially leading to longer wait times. Furthermore, the coverage area, while extensive, may not reach all locations within the ZIP code, necessitating transfers or longer walks.

The CAT system is committed to accessibility. All fixed-route buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and the CAT offers a paratransit service, **CAT Mobility**, for individuals who cannot use the fixed-route system due to a disability. This service provides door-to-door transportation, enhancing healthcare access for those with mobility limitations. However, demand for CAT Mobility can be high, and advance booking is often required.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are readily available in Savannah and offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation to and from healthcare facilities, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit.

Ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for individuals who need transportation at irregular hours or who have difficulty navigating public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, and availability may fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability.

Specialized medical transport services, such as **Medicaid transportation providers** and private ambulance services, are available for individuals with more complex transportation needs. These services provide transportation for patients requiring medical assistance during transit or who are unable to travel independently. However, these services often require pre-arrangement and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 31406 is moderately positive. While the area benefits from a combination of transportation options, including driving, public transit, and ride-sharing, challenges remain.

The reliance on driving and the potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can negatively impact healthcare access. The CAT system offers a valuable alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency, coverage, and potential wait times must be acknowledged. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but can be costly. Medical transport services cater to specific needs but require pre-planning.

For those considering moving to Savannah, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Individuals with mobility limitations should carefully assess the availability and accessibility of CAT Mobility or other specialized transport services. Those relying on public transit should factor in potential travel times and transfer requirements when scheduling appointments.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several recommendations can be made. Investing in public transit improvements, such as increased frequency and expanded route coverage, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Promoting ride-sharing programs and subsidies for low-income residents could also help. Furthermore, educating residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources is vital.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" reflects a complex interplay of factors. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation landscape in 31406, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and advocate for improvements that benefit the entire community.