31519, Broxton, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31519, Broxton, Georgia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.22 percent of residents in 31519 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Coffee Regional Medical Center, Inc with a distance of 9.21 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 31519

Considering a move to Broxton, Georgia (ZIP Code 31519)? Understanding healthcare accessibility is paramount. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for this area, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities, a critical factor influencing health outcomes. This score encompasses drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment, weighing the strengths and weaknesses of available transportation methods against the needs of a diverse population. Factors such as age, disability, and socioeconomic status are considered, as these influence an individual's ability to access healthcare. The higher the score, the better the access.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

Broxton, nestled in rural Coffee County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The road network, while adequate, can present challenges. The city is primarily served by US Highway 441, a major north-south artery. Residents seeking specialized care in larger cities like Douglas, approximately 20 miles south, or Tifton, about 50 miles west, will rely on this highway.

The drive to Douglas, home to the Coffee Regional Medical Center, typically takes 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and specific location within 31519. This drive primarily involves US-441 South and GA-32 East. The roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Traveling to Tifton, which offers a broader range of specialist services, requires a longer commute. The journey primarily involves US-441 North and then GA-168 West, adding approximately an hour to the commute. Rural roads, while generally safe, may experience limited lighting and shoulder space, especially at night.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Broxton are extremely limited. Coffee County does not have a dedicated public transit system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income individuals.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the county may offer demand-response transportation services, such as Dial-A-Ride, though availability and accessibility should be confirmed directly with Coffee County authorities. These services, if available, might offer limited transportation to medical appointments, but they are typically not ADA compliant.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Broxton. This further restricts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal transportation. The absence of these services underscores the challenges faced by residents in accessing medical care.

Medical transport services are available, though they may be limited in scope. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations. However, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) options, which are crucial for routine appointments, may be limited.

Companies like First Medical Transport or similar providers may offer services to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation. The availability and cost of these services significantly influence the "Overall Health Score."

**ADA Accessibility**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and medical facilities. However, the lack of robust public transit in Broxton poses a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities. While the Coffee Regional Medical Center is likely ADA compliant, access to the facility depends on the availability of accessible transportation.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 31519 is **moderate**. The primary strength is the availability of personal vehicles and the relatively short drive to the Coffee Regional Medical Center. However, the lack of public transit, ride-sharing services, and limited NEMT options significantly weaken the score. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the longer commute to specialized care in Tifton, presents challenges for those without reliable transportation.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance healthcare access for Broxton residents, several improvements are recommended. First, exploring the feasibility of implementing a county-wide public transit system, even a limited one, would significantly benefit the community. This system should be ADA compliant to serve individuals with disabilities.

Second, advocating for the expansion of ride-sharing services or encouraging local initiatives to provide transportation assistance to residents is crucial. Third, increasing the availability and affordability of NEMT services is essential.

Finally, promoting community awareness of available healthcare resources and transportation options is vital. This includes providing information on medical transport providers, offering assistance with appointment scheduling, and supporting initiatives that address transportation barriers to healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Moving to Broxton**

Choosing to move to Broxton involves weighing various factors, including healthcare access. While the area offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, potential residents should carefully consider the transportation challenges in accessing healthcare. Understanding the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and NEMT options is crucial. By addressing these transportation barriers, the community can enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health and well-being of its residents. A careful assessment of individual needs and transportation requirements is essential before making a move to Broxton.