35085, Jemison, Alabama Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 35085, Jemison, Alabama is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.68 percent of residents in 35085 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Chilton with a distance of 9.21 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jemison, Alabama (ZIP Code 35085)

Considering a move to Jemison, Alabama (ZIP code 35085) and managing arthritis? Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare, particularly for those with mobility challenges, is crucial. This "Arthritis Score" assesses transportation options, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a realistic picture of healthcare access for residents.

Jemison, a small town in Chilton County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a peaceful, rural setting, it necessitates careful consideration of transportation options for essential healthcare needs. The ability to navigate the roads and access available resources directly impacts the quality of life for individuals dealing with arthritis.

The primary artery serving Jemison is **Highway 31**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Traveling south on Highway 31 provides access to Clanton, the county seat, and home to Chilton Medical Center, the closest hospital. The drive is generally straightforward, taking approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. North on Highway 31 extends to larger cities like Birmingham, which can be a significant factor in healthcare access.

**Highway 193** intersects Highway 31 in Jemison, offering an alternate route. However, this road is primarily for local traffic and connects to smaller towns and rural areas. While it might offer a slightly shorter route to some destinations, it is not the primary route to healthcare facilities.

For residents without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. Chilton County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The absence of readily available buses or trains significantly impacts healthcare access for those unable to drive. This is a critical factor when evaluating the "Arthritis Score."

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Jemison, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on ride-sharing for medical appointments could be problematic, potentially leading to delays or cancellations. This is a significant consideration for individuals with arthritis, who may require regular appointments and face unpredictable flare-ups.

Medical transportation services are available, but their presence and accessibility require investigation. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Researching specific medical transport providers operating in the area is crucial. This could include companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT).

The drive to Birmingham, approximately an hour north on Highway 31, opens up access to a wider range of specialized medical care. However, this extended travel time adds another layer of complexity for individuals with arthritis. The journey itself can be physically demanding, and the longer drive time increases the potential for discomfort and fatigue.

The availability of accessible parking at medical facilities is another crucial factor. Ensuring that parking spaces are readily available and conveniently located is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. This includes investigating the availability of handicap parking and the ease of access to building entrances.

The “Arthritis Score” for Jemison, Alabama (35085) is impacted by several factors. While the proximity to Chilton Medical Center offers some convenience, the lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the longer drive to Birmingham for specialized care add complexity.

For individuals considering moving to Jemison with arthritis, a thorough assessment of these factors is critical. Prioritizing healthcare access and considering the limitations of the local transportation infrastructure will help determine the suitability of this location. This includes researching local medical transport providers, assessing the reliability of ride-sharing services, and evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities.

The overall “Arthritis Score” would be moderate. The presence of Chilton Medical Center offers a degree of local healthcare access, but the lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing create significant challenges. Individuals relying on personal vehicles will find the drive times manageable, but those without transportation options face significant hurdles.

Before making a move, prospective residents should contact local medical providers to understand appointment availability, wait times, and the availability of transportation assistance. This proactive approach will ensure a smooth transition and prioritize healthcare access.

Moving to Jemison requires careful consideration of transportation options. The availability of healthcare access and the ability to navigate the roads directly impact the quality of life for individuals dealing with arthritis. By thoroughly assessing these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure their healthcare needs are met.

The “Arthritis Score” highlights the need for proactive planning and research. While Jemison offers a tranquil setting, its transportation infrastructure requires careful evaluation. This allows individuals to weigh the benefits of rural living against the challenges of healthcare access.