31563, Surrency, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31563, Surrency, Georgia is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.84 percent of residents in 31563 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Appling Healthcare with a distance of 9.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Surrency, GA (ZIP Code 31563)

Assessing the overall health score for healthcare access in Surrency, Georgia (ZIP code 31563) requires a multi-faceted approach. It considers not only the availability of medical facilities but also the ease and efficiency of transportation to reach them. This analysis will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Surrency and seeking insights into their healthcare accessibility. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the current landscape, empowering informed decisions regarding personal health and well-being.

The primary challenge in Surrency, a rural community, is the relative scarcity of local healthcare providers. This necessitates travel to larger towns and cities for specialized care. The most common route for accessing healthcare involves personal vehicles. Driving is the dominant mode of transportation.

The primary artery for travel is **US Highway 84**, connecting Surrency to larger population centers. To reach the nearest hospital, **Wayne Memorial Hospital** in Jesup, a drive of approximately 18 miles is required. Under normal traffic conditions, this journey takes around 25-30 minutes. Further, **US Highway 1** provides access to the south, leading to facilities in towns like Baxley and Waycross. Driving to Baxley, roughly 28 miles, takes about 40 minutes, while Waycross, approximately 50 miles, requires a drive of around an hour.

Traffic on these highways is generally light, but potential delays can arise due to seasonal agricultural traffic, especially during harvest seasons. Accidents, though infrequent, can significantly impact travel times. The condition of the roads is generally good, but some sections may experience wear and tear, particularly after heavy rainfall. Maintaining a well-functioning vehicle is crucial for healthcare access in this region.

Public transportation options are limited in Surrency. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. There are no local bus routes serving Surrency. While the possibility of expanding public transit is always present, it is not currently a reality.

The absence of public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. This lack of options underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is often limited. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments outside of standard business hours, might prove challenging. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance getting to medical appointments. These services are designed to transport patients who cannot drive themselves due to medical conditions or mobility limitations. Several companies operate in the region, offering various levels of care, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport.

The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage. It is crucial to investigate insurance coverage for medical transport services. These services are a lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Surrency, GA (31563) is moderate. While drive times to essential medical facilities are manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and medical transport services, while available, come with associated costs.

For individuals considering moving to Surrency, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who are able to drive and have access to a reliable vehicle will find healthcare access more straightforward. Individuals who cannot drive or have mobility limitations will need to rely on ride-sharing, medical transport, or the assistance of family and friends.

The healthcare landscape in Surrency requires careful consideration. The absence of local healthcare providers necessitates travel, increasing the importance of reliable transportation. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides critical support for those unable to drive. The overall health score reflects the need for individuals to proactively plan their healthcare access strategies, considering the limitations of the current transportation infrastructure.

The success of healthcare access in Surrency is closely linked to the ability to navigate the transportation challenges. The community would greatly benefit from exploring opportunities to improve healthcare access, such as advocating for the expansion of public transit, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, or supporting the development of telemedicine services. These efforts could significantly improve the overall health score for residents and make Surrency a more desirable place to live.

Ultimately, the overall health score in Surrency is not just about the availability of healthcare facilities; it's about the ability to reach them. Understanding the transportation landscape is the first step toward ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.