31719, Americus, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31719, Americus, Georgia is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.08 percent of residents in 31719 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Phoebe Sumter Medical Center with a distance of 2.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Americus, GA (ZIP Code 31719)

The overall health score for residents of Americus, Georgia (ZIP Code 31719) is significantly impacted by the accessibility of healthcare services. This write-up assesses the current state of **transportation** options available for accessing medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone **moving to Americus** or seeking to improve their **healthcare access**.

Americus, a city steeped in history, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare accessibility. Its location in Sumter County, while offering a close-knit community, necessitates careful consideration of how residents reach essential medical care. The availability and efficiency of **transportation** options directly influence the health outcomes and quality of life for all residents, from the elderly to young families.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary means of **transportation** for healthcare in Americus is by personal vehicle. The city is primarily served by US Highway 280, US Highway 19, and Georgia State Route 49. These roads are generally well-maintained but can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center.

Drive times to the primary healthcare provider, Phoebe Sumter Medical Center, located at 126 W College St, Americus, GA 31709, vary depending on the origin within the ZIP code. Residents in the northern parts of 31719, closer to the city center, can expect drive times of approximately 5-10 minutes. Those residing in the southern or western areas may face drive times of 15-20 minutes, especially if navigating through local traffic.

Other medical facilities, such as doctor's offices and specialist clinics, are also concentrated in the city center. Drive times to these locations generally mirror those to the hospital. However, residents should factor in potential delays due to traffic, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. The condition of the roads, while generally acceptable, can be affected by weather conditions, potentially impacting travel times and safety.

**Public Transit Options:**

Americus offers limited public **transportation** options, which significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Sumter County Transit provides bus services within the county, but the routes and schedules are not extensive. Information regarding the specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features can be found on the Sumter County website or by contacting the transit authority directly.

The limited availability of public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or do not own a car. These residents may face considerable difficulty in accessing medical appointments, potentially leading to delayed care or missed appointments. The lack of frequent service and route coverage limits the ability of public transit to adequately serve the healthcare needs of the community.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Americus, offering an alternative **transportation** option for accessing healthcare. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. Ride-sharing fares can also be a significant expense for some residents, adding to the overall cost of healthcare.

Several medical transport services are also available, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Brands like First Choice Medical Transportation and others may operate in the area, offering scheduled transportation. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**ADA Accessibility and Considerations:**

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical factor in evaluating **healthcare access**. Public transit vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers are required to adhere to ADA guidelines, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the practical implementation of these guidelines can vary.

Residents with disabilities should inquire about the specific ADA features offered by each **transportation** service, including wheelchair accessibility, ramp availability, and assistance with boarding and disembarking. Furthermore, the proximity of medical facilities to bus stops or drop-off points is crucial for ensuring easy access. The availability of accessible parking at medical facilities also plays a significant role in overall accessibility.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for residents of 31719 is negatively impacted by the limitations in **transportation** options for accessing healthcare. While drive times to the primary medical center are generally reasonable for those with personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services create significant barriers for many residents.

This assessment highlights the need for improvements in **healthcare access** within Americus. Expanding public transit routes and schedules, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for medical transport could significantly improve the health outcomes of residents. Furthermore, initiatives to promote walking and cycling, such as improved sidewalks and bike lanes, could also contribute to better **transportation** options for those seeking healthcare.

For individuals **moving to Americus**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and access to healthcare is essential. Considering the availability of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport will help ensure they can access the medical care they require. Addressing these **transportation** challenges will be critical for improving the overall health and well-being of the Americus community.