31408, Savannah, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31408, Savannah, Georgia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.70 percent of residents in 31408 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Candler Hospital with a distance of 7.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 31408

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Savannah, Georgia’s 31408 ZIP code, focusing on their access to healthcare via various transportation options. Understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation infrastructure is crucial for evaluating the overall well-being of this community. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families *moving to Savannah*, seeking to understand the practicality of accessing medical services.

The 31408 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of downtown Savannah, presents a unique transportation landscape. The historic grid layout, while charming, can lead to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. This, coupled with the presence of major thoroughfares, influences the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. The overall health score reflects these realities, offering insights into the potential barriers and facilitators of healthcare access.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. The proximity to major roads and highways significantly impacts drive times to healthcare facilities. The primary routes for residents include the iconic **Broughton Street**, which funnels traffic east and west. **Abercorn Street**, running north and south, provides another crucial artery. **MLK Boulevard**, also north and south, offers another option.

Heading out of the downtown core, residents can utilize the **Truman Parkway**, a major north-south artery providing access to hospitals and medical offices. The **I-16** and **I-95** highways offer access to healthcare facilities further afield, but these routes can be subject to significant traffic delays, especially during rush hour and tourist season.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the location within the 31408 ZIP code and the destination. The drive to Memorial Health University Medical Center, a major regional hospital, can range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. St. Joseph's/Candler Hospital, another significant healthcare provider, may require a similar drive time. Smaller clinics and specialist offices located downtown are generally more accessible, often within a 5 to 10-minute drive. However, parking availability can be a significant challenge, particularly in the downtown area. The overall health score considers these variables, factoring in the potential for increased stress and inconvenience associated with longer drive times and parking difficulties.

**Public Transit Accessibility:**

The Chatham Area Transit (CAT) system provides public transportation options for residents of 31408. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a more affordable alternative to driving, especially for individuals without personal vehicles. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes can be a limiting factor.

Key routes serving the 31408 ZIP code include the **10** (Abercorn), **11** (Bull Street), **14** (Broughton Street), and **20** (Waters Avenue). These routes connect to major healthcare facilities, including Memorial Health and St. Joseph's/Candler. The CAT system also provides ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transportation.

The overall health score takes into account the limitations of public transit. While it offers a viable option, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, may not be sufficient for all needs. Long wait times and the potential for multiple transfers can also impact the overall accessibility of healthcare. The CAT system is continuously working to improve its services, but the current limitations must be considered when assessing healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Savannah, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who do not own a car or who are unable to drive due to medical conditions.

Ride-sharing provides a door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate parking or rely on fixed bus routes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited financial resources. The overall health score considers the financial implications of ride-sharing and the potential for it to exacerbate existing health disparities.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like **CareRide** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical requirements.

Medical transport services are essential for individuals who are unable to use public transit or ride-sharing due to their medical conditions. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior scheduling. The overall health score acknowledges the vital role of medical transport while also considering the potential financial burden and logistical complexities associated with these services.

**Overall Health Score Calculation:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 31408 is calculated by weighing the factors discussed above. Drive times are assessed based on the average travel time to major healthcare facilities, considering traffic conditions and parking availability. Public transit accessibility is evaluated based on route frequency, coverage, and ADA compliance. Ride-sharing and medical transport services are assessed based on availability, cost, and the specific needs of the population.

The score reflects the complex interplay of these factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to *healthcare access* in this specific geographic area. The score is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the current transportation landscape and the resources available to residents.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in the 31408 ZIP code reveals a mixed picture. While residents have access to a range of transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, significant challenges remain. Traffic congestion, limited public transit coverage, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can create barriers to accessing healthcare, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Improvements in public transit, such as increased frequency and expanded route coverage, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Investments in infrastructure to reduce traffic congestion, such as improved traffic light synchronization and expanded parking options, would also be beneficial. Furthermore, initiatives to increase the affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services could help to reduce health disparities.

For those *moving to Savannah*, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access. The overall health score provides a valuable framework for evaluating the accessibility of medical services and identifying potential challenges. By considering these factors, residents of 31408 can make informed choices about their healthcare needs and advocate for improvements in transportation infrastructure. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community.