31523, Brunswick, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31523, Brunswick, Georgia is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.70 percent of residents in 31523 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeast Georgia Health System- Brunswick Campus with a distance of 5.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 31523

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 31523, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access, specifically examining the challenges and opportunities presented by **transportation** options available to reach medical facilities. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Brunswick**, Georgia, as it offers a detailed understanding of the realities of accessing care.

The health score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation considering various factors, including drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Each element is assessed for its efficiency, accessibility, and affordability, painting a comprehensive picture of the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical services. This is a critical consideration for overall well-being.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary challenge for residents of 31523, a geographically expansive area encompassing Brunswick and surrounding communities, is the reliance on personal vehicles. While this offers flexibility, it also introduces concerns about traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and emergency situations. The major thoroughfare, **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, provides the most direct route to larger medical centers located outside of Brunswick. However, I-95 is prone to delays due to accidents or construction.

Within Brunswick, **US Highway 17** serves as a crucial artery, connecting various parts of the city and providing access to local clinics and hospitals. Other important roads include **Golden Isles Parkway** and **Newcastle Street**, which are vital for navigating the city and reaching essential services. Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the location within 31523. For instance, a resident in the northern part of the ZIP code might face a longer commute to the Southeast Georgia Health System Brunswick Campus, the primary hospital in the area, compared to someone living closer to the city center.

The condition of the roads and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities also impact the overall health score. Well-maintained roads and ample parking contribute to a smoother and less stressful experience, while poor road conditions or limited parking can exacerbate the challenges of accessing healthcare, especially for those with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit in 31523, provided by the **Glynn County Transit System**, presents a significant limitation in terms of healthcare access. The system operates a limited number of routes, primarily focused on serving the core areas of Brunswick. Route numbers and schedules are subject to change, so it is important to check the Glynn County Transit System website for the most up-to-date information.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. The Glynn County Transit System strives to offer accessible services, including wheelchair lifts on buses. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules make public transit a less viable option for many residents, particularly those living in more remote areas or requiring frequent medical appointments. The extended travel times and potential for multiple transfers can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in Brunswick, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes or frequent healthcare needs.

Specialized medical transport services play a crucial role in bridging the gap for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. Several medical transport brands, such as **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation Providers**, operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, eligibility requirements and scheduling limitations can impact their availability and effectiveness.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in 31523 is a complex calculation, influenced by the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services, and the constraints of medical transport all contribute to the overall assessment.

For individuals considering **moving to Brunswick**, understanding these realities is crucial. The score is lower for those without access to a personal vehicle, as they are more dependent on the limited public transit options or the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score is also affected by the individual's health condition, mobility limitations, and financial resources.

The geographical location within 31523 also plays a significant role. Residents in areas with limited access to major roads or public transit routes face greater challenges in reaching healthcare facilities. The availability of healthcare services within the immediate vicinity, such as primary care physicians and urgent care clinics, can mitigate some of these challenges.

**Recommendations and Future Considerations:**

Improving the overall health score for healthcare access in 31523 requires a multi-pronged approach. Enhancing the public transit system, including expanding routes and increasing frequency, is crucial. This would require additional funding and strategic planning.

Promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, perhaps through partnerships with local healthcare providers, could also improve access. Expanding the capacity and coverage of medical transport services is also essential, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their mobility or financial situation, can reach necessary medical appointments.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road repairs and additional parking at healthcare facilities, would also contribute to a more positive experience. Furthermore, encouraging the development of healthcare facilities in underserved areas within 31523 could significantly reduce drive times and improve access for residents.

Finally, educating residents about the available **transportation** options and providing assistance with navigating the system is essential. This could include providing information about public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers. By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, the overall health score for healthcare access in 31523 can be improved, leading to better health outcomes for all residents. The assessment highlights the significance of considering **healthcare access** when **moving to Brunswick**.