35019, Baileyton, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35019, Baileyton, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.23 percent of residents in 35019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cullman Regional Medical Center with a distance of 14.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Baileyton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35019)

Considering a move to Baileyton, Alabama, within the 35019 ZIP code? This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare services, focusing on transportation options and potential challenges. The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, influencing overall well-being. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access.

The Overall Health Score for Baileyton, 35019, is **moderate**. While the area offers some healthcare options and transportation solutions, limitations exist, particularly concerning public transit and specialized medical transport. The score is influenced by the rural nature of the area, which affects the availability of diverse transportation options. The following factors contribute to this score.

**Drive Time and Road Infrastructure:**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Baileyton. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles to access healthcare. The main thoroughfares impacting healthcare access are Alabama State Route 69 (AL-69) and County Road 14 (CR-14). AL-69 provides north-south connectivity, while CR-14 offers east-west access.

Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities vary. Cullman Regional Medical Center, located in Cullman, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via AL-69. Urgent care facilities in Cullman are similarly accessible. Specialty clinics may require longer travel times, potentially exceeding 45 minutes, depending on their location. This reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle maintenance and the financial burden of car ownership for healthcare access.

Traffic congestion is generally light in Baileyton and surrounding areas, contributing to relatively predictable drive times. However, inclement weather, particularly during winter months, can impact road conditions and increase travel times. Furthermore, the condition of local roads and highways, though generally well-maintained, can still present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Baileyton are limited. Cullman County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of a robust public transit system creates a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those unable to drive or afford ride-sharing services. This limitation highlights the need for alternative transportation solutions to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cullman area, offering a potential alternative to driving for healthcare appointments. However, their availability and affordability can vary, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden for some residents, potentially deterring them from seeking necessary medical care.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals requiring assistance. Ambulance services are readily accessible in emergencies. NEMT services, often provided by private companies, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, such as dialysis or physical therapy.

The availability of NEMT services can be crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited, particularly in rural areas. Careful consideration of insurance coverage and pre-booking is essential when utilizing NEMT services.

**Healthcare Facilities and Services:**

Baileyton itself has limited healthcare facilities. Residents typically access healthcare services in Cullman, approximately 20-30 minutes away. Cullman Regional Medical Center offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. Numerous physician offices, specialty clinics, and urgent care facilities are also available in Cullman.

The proximity of Cullman to Baileyton provides residents with access to a reasonable range of healthcare options. However, the reliance on travel to Cullman underscores the importance of reliable transportation. The availability of specialized medical services may necessitate travel to larger cities, such as Birmingham, further increasing travel times and transportation costs.

**ADA Accessibility:**

While specific details on the ADA accessibility of all healthcare facilities and transportation options are beyond the scope of this assessment, it is essential to consider this factor. Healthcare facilities in Cullman are generally required to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the accessibility of transportation options, particularly public transit and ride-sharing services, may vary.

Individuals with disabilities should inquire about the ADA compliance of transportation services and healthcare facilities before scheduling appointments. This includes verifying the availability of accessible vehicles, ramps, and other accommodations.

**Moving to Baileyton: Considerations for Healthcare Access:**

For those considering moving to Baileyton, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. The area's reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services should be carefully considered.

Individuals without personal vehicles should factor in the cost and availability of ride-sharing or medical transport when assessing healthcare access. Those with mobility limitations should investigate the ADA accessibility of healthcare facilities and transportation options.

The Overall Health Score for Baileyton highlights the need for careful planning and consideration regarding healthcare access. While the area offers reasonable access to healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges for some residents.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for Baileyton, 35019, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While residents have access to healthcare facilities in Cullman, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. Individuals considering a move to Baileyton should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Planning ahead, exploring available transportation options, and understanding the healthcare landscape are essential for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care.