31419, Savannah, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31419, Savannah, Georgia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.93 percent of residents in 31419 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Joseph's Hospital - Savannah with a distance of 2.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 31419

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Savannah's 31419 ZIP code requires a deep dive into healthcare access, with transportation playing a pivotal role. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare within this community. The goal is to offer insights for prospective residents contemplating moving to Savannah, emphasizing the realities of healthcare access within this specific area.

The 31419 ZIP code, encompassing areas near Hunter Army Airfield and extending towards the Ogeechee River, presents a varied landscape for healthcare access. Proximity to medical facilities isn't uniform, and transportation options significantly influence the ease with which residents can obtain necessary medical care. This analysis will consider these factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the overall health score for this specific region.

**Drive Times: Navigating Savannah's Roads**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many in 31419. The speed and efficiency of this method, however, are subject to traffic conditions and the distance to healthcare facilities. Residents have several options for accessing hospitals and clinics.

Memorial Health University Medical Center, a major regional hospital, is a significant healthcare hub. From 31419, the drive to Memorial Health typically involves navigating Abercorn Street Extension, a major thoroughfare. Depending on traffic, the journey can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. The same is true for St. Joseph's/Candler, another major hospital, which can be accessed via the Truman Parkway.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices are scattered throughout the area. Access to these facilities often involves local roads like White Bluff Road, Hodgson Memorial Drive, and Victory Drive. While these routes offer shorter distances, they can be prone to congestion during peak hours, particularly around shopping centers and intersections.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Chatham Area Transit (CAT)**

Chatham Area Transit (CAT) provides public transportation services within Savannah, offering an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Several bus routes service the 31419 area, potentially connecting residents to healthcare facilities.

Route 14, for instance, travels along Abercorn Street, providing access to Memorial Health and other medical offices along its route. Route 10, which runs along White Bluff Road, also offers connections to healthcare facilities, depending on the location of the clinic. Route 17, which runs along Hodgson Memorial Drive, offers another option.

While CAT offers a valuable service, its effectiveness for healthcare access is contingent on several factors. The frequency of buses, particularly during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor. Furthermore, the need for transfers to reach certain destinations and the overall travel time can make public transit less appealing for those with mobility issues or urgent medical needs.

CAT strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the system for those with mobility challenges remain crucial considerations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

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

The ease of booking a ride and the door-to-door service offered by ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for those who cannot drive or prefer not to navigate traffic. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, and the availability of drivers, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas, can be unpredictable.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and others, are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel, ensuring safe and comfortable transportation for patients.

Medical transport is often used for non-emergency medical appointments, hospital discharges, and other situations where specialized assistance is required. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific needs of the transport.

**Evaluating the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for 31419 is a composite of these factors. The availability of multiple transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is a positive aspect. However, the challenges associated with each mode of transportation must be considered.

Drive times can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Public transit, while offering a cost-effective alternative, may be limited by frequency, travel time, and the need for transfers. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but can be expensive and subject to availability. Medical transport provides specialized care but can be costly and may require prior arrangements.

The overall health score for 31419 is moderate. The presence of multiple transportation options provides a degree of flexibility. However, the potential for delays, cost considerations, and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning and consideration for residents seeking healthcare access.

**Implications for Moving to Savannah**

For those considering moving to Savannah and specifically to the 31419 ZIP code, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and preferences, considering factors such as their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their access to ride-sharing services.

Proximity to healthcare facilities is also a key consideration. Choosing a residence closer to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices can significantly reduce travel times and improve healthcare access. The location of the home relative to CAT routes is also an important factor.

Ultimately, the overall health score for 31419 reflects the realities of healthcare access in this community. While opportunities exist, potential residents should be aware of the challenges and plan accordingly to ensure they can effectively access the medical care they need. This assessment provides a framework for making informed decisions about moving to Savannah, emphasizing the importance of transportation and its impact on healthcare access.