35010, Alexander City, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35010, Alexander City, Alabama is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.77 percent of residents in 35010 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russell Medical Center with a distance of 1.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35010

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Alexander City, Alabama, specifically within ZIP Code 35010, requires a comprehensive understanding of their access to healthcare. This assessment considers the availability and efficiency of transportation options, recognizing that a lack of readily available and affordable transportation can significantly impede healthcare access, ultimately impacting overall health outcomes. This write-up delves into the specifics of commuting to healthcare facilities from 35010, evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Alexander City is the geography. The town, nestled in Tallapoosa County, is surrounded by rolling hills and lakes, which can present challenges for transportation. Residents often rely on personal vehicles, making drive times a crucial consideration. Several major roadways facilitate travel within and beyond the city limits.

For residents of 35010, the primary route to larger medical centers is typically via US Highway 280, a major east-west thoroughfare. This highway provides direct access to Birmingham, approximately 90 miles west, and Auburn, roughly 40 miles east. Travel times vary depending on traffic and the specific destination. Expect a drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours to Birmingham, while Auburn is a shorter 45 minutes to an hour.

Within Alexander City, local roads like Alabama Highway 22 and Alabama Highway 63 provide access to local clinics, pharmacies, and the Russell Medical Center, the primary healthcare provider for the area. Travel within the city is generally manageable, with drive times rarely exceeding 15 to 20 minutes. However, residents living in more rural areas of the ZIP code might face longer commutes to these essential services.

Public transportation options in Alexander City are limited, impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The Tallapoosa County Transit System offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This service is essential for those who cannot drive and need to get to medical appointments. However, the limited operating hours and the need for pre-scheduling can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for urgent needs.

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft is another factor to consider. While these services are becoming increasingly common in many areas, their presence in Alexander City is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. Residents needing to rely on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments should plan well in advance and be prepared for potential delays or unavailability.

Medical transport services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical care. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services often cater to individuals needing transportation to dialysis appointments, physical therapy, or other routine medical treatments. These services typically require advance booking, and costs can vary depending on the distance and the type of service required.

When considering moving to Alexander City, potential residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. While the city offers a range of local medical services, access to specialized care often necessitates travel to larger cities like Birmingham or Auburn. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation highlight the importance of considering these factors when making a move.

The Russell Medical Center is the cornerstone of local healthcare, providing a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, outpatient clinics, and specialized medical services. However, the availability of specialized care is limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Residents may need to travel to Birmingham or Auburn for specific treatments or specialist consultations.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of public transit and healthcare facilities is a crucial consideration. The Tallapoosa County Transit System strives to provide accessible transportation options, but riders should confirm specific ADA features when scheduling rides. The Russell Medical Center is committed to providing accessible facilities and services to all patients.

The overall health score for residents of 35010 is significantly influenced by their ability to access healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for some residents. Those without reliable transportation may face significant barriers to accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

The cost of transportation is another important factor. Gas prices, vehicle maintenance, and the cost of ride-sharing services can add up, particularly for frequent medical appointments. These costs can strain household budgets and potentially impact the ability of residents to seek necessary medical care.

The presence of medical transport services offers a valuable lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Residents should research and understand the options available to them and how these services align with their individual needs.

The healthcare landscape in Alexander City is constantly evolving. New clinics and services may emerge, and transportation options may improve. However, the current reality is that healthcare access is heavily reliant on personal vehicles. Public transportation and ride-sharing services offer limited alternatives.

For those considering a move to Alexander City, it's imperative to factor in the transportation challenges and the potential impact on healthcare access. Assessing your individual needs and circumstances is crucial. If you rely on public transit or have mobility limitations, you may need to carefully plan your healthcare access strategies.

The overall health score for 35010 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While local healthcare providers offer essential services, the limitations in transportation options can create barriers to care for some residents. A proactive approach to planning for transportation needs is essential for maintaining good health and well-being in Alexander City.