31772, Oakfield, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31772, Oakfield, Georgia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.73 percent of residents in 31772 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Phoebe Worth Medical Center with a distance of 15.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oakfield, Georgia (ZIP Code 31772)

Oakfield, Georgia, nestled within ZIP code 31772, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly concerning access to healthcare. This analysis focuses on the critical link between *transportation* and healthcare access, evaluating the available options and their impact on residents' well-being. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for individuals considering *moving to Oakfield*, highlighting the realities of navigating the healthcare system within this rural setting.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Oakfield is, unsurprisingly, the need to travel. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Albany, a city approximately 30 miles to the west. This distance translates to a significant commute, dependent on the chosen mode of *transportation* and prevailing traffic conditions.

Driving is the most common method. The primary routes involve navigating a network of state highways and local roads. Residents typically utilize US Highway 82, a major east-west thoroughfare, to reach Albany. The journey along US-82, with its two-lane configuration in many areas, can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Albany.

Alternatively, residents may opt to utilize Georgia State Route 300, a north-south route that intersects with US-82. This route offers a slightly longer but potentially less congested path, particularly during peak travel times. However, both routes are subject to the vagaries of rural road conditions, including potential delays due to accidents, weather, and road maintenance.

Local roads, such as Oakfield-Putney Road and Radium Springs Road, provide access to US-82 and SR-300. These roads, while offering convenient access points, are generally narrow and may not be well-maintained, especially during inclement weather. The condition of these local roads can significantly impact travel times and overall safety, particularly for those with mobility limitations or medical conditions.

Public *transportation* options are extremely limited in Oakfield. There is no dedicated public bus service operating within the ZIP code. The nearest public transit system is located in Albany, operated by the Albany Transit System (ATS). However, ATS primarily serves the city of Albany and its immediate surroundings.

Accessing the ATS from Oakfield requires a drive to Albany, effectively negating its utility for residents without personal vehicles. The ATS does offer some ADA-accessible buses, but the lack of a direct route from Oakfield renders this feature irrelevant for the majority of residents. This absence of reliable public *transportation* presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or cannot afford a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Albany. However, their presence in Oakfield is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of these services depends on driver availability, which is often limited in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or private medical transport providers, represent another option. These services are primarily designed for emergency situations or non-emergency medical transport for individuals with specific needs. However, their cost can be substantial, and their availability may be limited, particularly for routine appointments.

The overall health score for *transportation* to healthcare in Oakfield is significantly impacted by these limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the uncertainty of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for residents seeking medical care. The long commute times, potential for traffic delays, and the cost of *transportation* all contribute to a lower score.

The impact on healthcare access is multifaceted. Residents may delay or forgo medical appointments due to *transportation* difficulties. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, exacerbation of existing conditions, and poorer health outcomes. The stress and inconvenience of traveling for healthcare can also negatively impact mental health and overall well-being.

For individuals *moving to Oakfield*, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and *transportation* capabilities is crucial. Those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility should carefully consider the challenges of accessing healthcare in this rural setting. Planning for regular appointments, anticipating potential delays, and exploring all available *transportation* options are essential.

The *transportation* landscape in Oakfield necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare management. Individuals should establish relationships with local healthcare providers, explore telehealth options where available, and consider the potential costs and logistical challenges of accessing medical care. The absence of readily available public *transportation* underscores the importance of personal vehicles and the need for careful planning.

The 'Overall Health Score' for *transportation* to healthcare in Oakfield is negatively impacted by the lack of readily available public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles. While the drive times are manageable, the potential for delays and the limitations of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to access.

The lack of diverse *transportation* options disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals. This inequity underscores the need for community-based solutions to improve healthcare access. Potential solutions include exploring partnerships with local organizations to provide *transportation* assistance, advocating for the expansion of telehealth services, and promoting the development of community-based healthcare initiatives.

The healthcare infrastructure in Oakfield, and the surrounding areas, plays a crucial role in mitigating the challenges of *transportation*. The presence of local clinics and medical offices can reduce the need for long-distance travel for routine care. However, the availability of specialized medical services in Albany remains a significant factor in healthcare access.

The 'Overall Health Score' for *transportation* to healthcare in Oakfield, ZIP code 31772, is a reflection of the realities of rural healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the lack of convenient *transportation* options creates a significant challenge for residents seeking medical care. Individuals considering *moving to Oakfield* should carefully assess their healthcare needs and *transportation* capabilities to ensure they can access the care they require.