35035, Brierfield, Alabama Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 35035, Brierfield, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.57 percent of residents in 35035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bibb Medical Center with a distance of 12.92 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Brierfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35035)

The gentle hum of rural Alabama often masks the complex challenges faced by its aging population, especially those navigating the insidious grip of Alzheimer's disease. For residents of Brierfield, ZIP code 35035, the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare, crucial for managing this devastating illness, is inextricably linked to transportation. This "Alzheimer's Score" delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare within this specific geographic area, examining drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. This is vital information for anyone considering moving to Brierfield, especially those with loved ones who require regular medical attention.

Brierfield, nestled in the heart of Bibb County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The primary artery of movement is **Alabama Highway 25**, a winding two-lane road that connects Brierfield to the larger towns and cities where specialized medical care is found. The drive to the nearest hospital, **Bibb Medical Center** in Centreville, is approximately 20 minutes, a relatively manageable distance. However, this assumes ideal conditions: clear roads, no traffic, and a driver capable of navigating the route. For individuals with Alzheimer's, or those caring for them, these assumptions can be precarious.

Beyond Centreville, more specialized care necessitates longer journeys. Birmingham, a regional hub for advanced medical services, lies approximately an hour’s drive north via **Alabama Highway 25** and then **Interstate 65**. This drive, while straightforward, can be daunting for those with cognitive impairments or those managing the stress of caregiving. The potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, adds another layer of complexity. The route also requires navigating multiple highway interchanges, which can be disorienting.

Public transportation options in Brierfield are limited. Bibb County does not have a dedicated public transit system. The nearest options are in Birmingham, requiring a significant commute. This lack of public transportation severely restricts healthcare access for those unable to drive or who lack access to a personal vehicle. This situation disproportionately impacts individuals with Alzheimer's, who may no longer be able to drive, and their caregivers, who may face logistical challenges in providing transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Birmingham metropolitan area, but their presence in Brierfield is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is significantly lower in rural areas. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments in the early morning or late evening, can be challenging. This unreliability poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who rely on these services.

Medical transport services offer a lifeline for those who cannot drive or utilize public transportation. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the Birmingham area, including **Medicaid-approved providers**. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The availability of these services in Brierfield, however, is not guaranteed. The distance to Birmingham and the potential for delays can make these services less desirable.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a crucial role in healthcare access. While no public transit exists in Brierfield, the medical transport services must comply with ADA regulations. This includes providing accessible vehicles and accommodating individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of these ADA-compliant vehicles may be limited, and booking in advance is essential.

For those considering moving to Brierfield, this transportation landscape presents a complex picture. While the proximity to Centreville offers some convenience, the need for specialized care in Birmingham adds significant travel time and logistical hurdles. The scarcity of public transportation, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on medical transport services all impact healthcare access.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Brierfield, 35035, highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration for those affected by Alzheimer's. The availability of a reliable driver, the ability to navigate long distances, and the financial resources to afford medical transportation are all crucial factors. Families considering a move to Brierfield must proactively investigate the availability of healthcare services, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential impact on the quality of life for their loved ones.

The drive times, the lack of public transit, and the limited ride-share availability are all important factors to consider. The reliance on medical transport services, while a potential solution, adds another layer of complexity. The lack of public transportation options, coupled with the limited availability of ride-sharing services, creates a difficult situation for those with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

The drive to Birmingham via **Alabama Highway 25** and **Interstate 65** is a significant undertaking, especially for individuals with cognitive impairments. The need to navigate multiple highway interchanges, the potential for traffic congestion, and the stress of the journey can exacerbate the challenges of managing Alzheimer's. The lack of readily available public transportation and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

The absence of readily available public transportation and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services creates a difficult situation for those with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The reliance on medical transport services, while a potential solution, adds another layer of complexity, requiring advance booking and potentially limiting flexibility.

The challenges of transportation in Brierfield underscore the importance of comprehensive care planning for individuals with Alzheimer's. This includes assessing transportation needs, identifying available resources, and establishing contingency plans for unexpected circumstances. The "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ability to get there.