31512, Ambrose, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31512, Ambrose, Georgia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.40 percent of residents in 31512 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Coffee Regional Medical Center, Inc with a distance of 8.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Ambrose, GA (ZIP Code 31512)

Assessing the overall health of a community necessitates a deep dive into its infrastructure, particularly concerning **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This report analyzes the landscape of healthcare accessibility for residents of Ambrose, Georgia (ZIP Code 31512), considering various modes of travel and their inherent challenges. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This information is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Ambrose** or for current residents seeking to understand their community's strengths and weaknesses.

Ambrose, a small town in Coffee County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. Its rural location and limited public **transportation** options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. This report will explore the realities of navigating the local roads, the availability of alternative **transportation** methods, and the overall impact on health outcomes.

The primary factor impacting healthcare accessibility is the distance to medical facilities. The closest significant medical center is Coffee Regional Medical Center in Douglas, GA. Reaching this facility from Ambrose involves navigating several key roadways. Driving from Ambrose, residents typically utilize GA-135 North, a two-lane highway that offers a relatively direct route to Douglas. This segment of the journey, approximately 10 miles, usually takes around 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Continuing into Douglas, the route merges onto US-441 South, a major thoroughfare that provides access to the hospital. The drive on US-441 South is generally smooth, though traffic can be heavier during peak hours, potentially extending the travel time. The total drive time to Coffee Regional Medical Center can range from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Ambrose.

Other healthcare options, such as smaller clinics and specialist offices, may be located in surrounding towns like Alma or Hazlehurst. These destinations require navigating a network of secondary roads, including GA-32 and GA-165, which can add significant travel time and introduce the possibility of encountering unpaved sections. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can further complicate travel.

Public **transportation** options in Ambrose are extremely limited. Coffee County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This deficiency presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership. The lack of public **transportation** disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families.

The absence of robust public **transportation** highlights the need for alternative solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Douglas area, but their presence in Ambrose is less consistent. Availability and pricing can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in response to surges in demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for many residents, further limiting their **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services. These services cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or who cannot safely drive themselves. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, potentially creating delays in accessing timely medical care.

The availability of **healthcare access** is intricately linked to health outcomes. Delays in accessing medical care can lead to poorer health outcomes, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those experiencing acute illnesses. The challenges of **transportation** in Ambrose can exacerbate these issues, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and a decline in overall well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Ambrose, GA (31512) is therefore negatively impacted by several factors. The limited availability of public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times all contribute to a lower score. While the presence of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers some solutions, their cost and limited availability further reduce the score. The rural nature of the area also impacts the availability of specialized medical care, requiring residents to travel even further for certain treatments.

The score is not entirely bleak. The proximity of Coffee Regional Medical Center provides a critical point of access to a wide range of medical services. The relatively well-maintained road network, while lacking in public **transportation** alternatives, allows for relatively efficient travel for those with personal vehicles. The community's overall health is also influenced by factors beyond **transportation**, such as access to healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity, and the availability of preventative care.

For individuals considering **moving to Ambrose**, the **transportation** landscape should be a key consideration. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive or access alternative **transportation** options. The availability of reliable and affordable **transportation** is critical for maintaining good health and accessing necessary medical services. This information is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Ambrose, several interventions could be implemented. Investing in a public **transportation** system, even a limited one, would significantly improve accessibility for those without vehicles. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized fares for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting the use of telemedicine and telehealth services can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for Ambrose, GA (31512) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the community possesses some strengths, such as the proximity of a major medical center, the limitations of its **transportation** infrastructure present significant challenges to **healthcare access**. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments and community-based initiatives is crucial for improving the overall health and well-being of Ambrose residents. This information is key for anyone considering **moving to Ambrose**, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain their health.