31788, Moultrie, Georgia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 31788, Moultrie, Georgia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.33 percent of residents in 31788 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Colquitt Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 31788 (Moultrie, Georgia)

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when considering a move, especially for those prioritizing well-being. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 31788, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access in Moultrie, Georgia.

The "Overall Health Score" reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, influencing their ability to maintain and improve their health. Factors like distance, transportation infrastructure, and service availability significantly impact this score. A higher score suggests better access, while a lower score indicates potential challenges. This assessment will help prospective residents understand the realities of healthcare access in Moultrie, aiding informed decisions about relocating to this community.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation in Moultrie is personal vehicles. The road network, while adequate, presents certain limitations. The major thoroughfare, US Highway 319, serves as a vital artery, connecting Moultrie to surrounding towns and cities. Traveling north on US 319 leads to Albany, the nearest city with a broader range of specialized medical services. Southbound on US 319 offers access to Florida.

Georgia State Route 35, another crucial road, provides access to other parts of Colquitt County and beyond. The speed limits on these highways generally range from 55 to 65 mph, facilitating relatively quick travel. However, traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, especially near commercial areas and intersections.

The distance to healthcare facilities significantly impacts drive times. Colquitt Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital in Moultrie, is conveniently located within the city limits. Drive times to this facility are generally short, ranging from a few minutes for local residents to approximately 15-20 minutes for those living on the outskirts of the county.

Specialized medical services, such as those offered by specialists or hospitals in Albany, require longer drive times. The journey to Albany, approximately 40 miles north, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This increased travel time can pose a challenge for those requiring frequent specialist appointments or emergency care.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Moultrie are limited. The Colquitt County Transit System provides a demand-response service. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance, and the routes and schedules are flexible, depending on the needs of the passengers. This system is designed to serve the general public, including those with disabilities.

The Colquitt County Transit System offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited service hours and the need for advance scheduling can be a barrier for those requiring spontaneous or urgent medical care. The availability of public transit is a critical consideration when assessing healthcare access, especially for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The current public transit infrastructure, while providing a necessary service, does not offer the frequency or coverage to meet the healthcare transportation needs of all residents. Expanding the public transit network, increasing service hours, and improving route coverage could significantly enhance healthcare access for many Moultrie residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Moultrie, though their availability may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The presence of ride-sharing services provides an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who do not drive or prefer not to drive. However, the cost and availability of these services can fluctuate, impacting their reliability for healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in Moultrie. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, offering varying levels of service and pricing.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial for those who cannot drive or need specialized assistance. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, potentially creating a barrier to healthcare access for some residents. Understanding the cost, availability, and service areas of these options is essential when evaluating healthcare accessibility.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 31788 is moderate. While Colquitt Regional Medical Center is conveniently located, the limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the drive times to specialized services in Albany present challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their cost and reliability need to be considered. For individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not drive, the availability of these services is particularly important. The overall score reflects the need for residents to carefully consider their transportation needs and potential challenges when accessing healthcare in Moultrie.

The "Overall Health Score" can be improved by expanding public transit options, increasing the frequency of service, and extending operating hours. Promoting ride-sharing and medical transport services and ensuring their affordability could also enhance healthcare access. Furthermore, attracting more specialized medical services to Moultrie would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care.

**Conclusion:**

When considering moving to Moultrie, Georgia, evaluating healthcare access is essential. The "Overall Health Score" provides a valuable framework for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. While the community offers certain advantages, such as the local Colquitt Regional Medical Center, residents should be aware of the limitations in public transit and the need for personal vehicles or alternative transportation options.

Understanding these factors is crucial for making an informed decision about moving to Moultrie, ensuring that healthcare needs can be met effectively. Prospective residents should assess their individual transportation requirements and consider the available resources to determine if the healthcare access in ZIP Code 31788 aligns with their needs. The ability to readily access healthcare is a key component of overall well-being, and this analysis provides a starting point for evaluating that access in Moultrie.