35022, Bessemer, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35022, Bessemer, Alabama is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.37 percent of residents in 35022 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical West, An Affiliate Of Uab Health System with a distance of 2.62 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35022**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. In ZIP Code 35022, encompassing a significant portion of Bessemer, Alabama, this access is largely determined by the efficiency and availability of transportation. This write-up will explore the multifaceted aspects of transportation and their impact on the overall health score for residents of this area, offering insights for those considering moving to Bessemer and seeking to understand their healthcare options.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 35022 is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. The road network is the circulatory system of healthcare access, and its condition and efficiency directly affect the health outcomes of the community. Major thoroughfares like I-20/59 and US-11 provide the primary arteries, connecting Bessemer to Birmingham and surrounding areas where a concentration of specialized medical facilities exists. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially in the vicinity of Birmingham, adding valuable minutes to commute times.

Local roads, such as 9th Avenue, 1st Avenue North, and Academy Drive, serve as the capillaries, delivering residents to local clinics, primary care physicians, and pharmacies. The condition of these roads, including potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting, can pose challenges, particularly for those with mobility issues or those reliant on bicycles or walking. The presence of sidewalks and crosswalks, and their maintenance, are critical components of a safe and accessible transportation environment, directly influencing the health and well-being of residents.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on the destination and the time of day. A routine visit to a primary care physician within Bessemer might take 10-15 minutes, while a specialist appointment in Birmingham could easily extend to 30-45 minutes, or even longer during rush hour. The distance to larger hospitals like UAB Hospital or Brookwood Baptist Medical Center, which offer a wider range of specialized services, can be a significant barrier for residents in need of urgent or complex care. These longer commutes can lead to delayed treatment, exacerbating health conditions and negatively impacting the overall health score.

Public transportation in 35022, while present, plays a limited role in healthcare access. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), operating as MAX, provides bus service throughout the region. However, the routes serving Bessemer are not as extensive or frequent as those in the more urbanized areas of Birmingham. Bus routes, such as Route 20, which travels along 9th Avenue, and Route 28, which provides access to downtown Birmingham, can offer some healthcare access options, but their schedules may not align with the needs of patients, particularly those with appointments or needing to travel during off-peak hours.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. All MAX buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the bus system with mobility impairments can still pose challenges. The integration of public transportation with healthcare facilities, such as dedicated bus stops near hospitals and clinics, would significantly enhance accessibility for those reliant on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle or those unable to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, offering a degree of flexibility and convenience. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes. The availability of ride-sharing services also fluctuates depending on demand and driver availability, potentially leading to delays or difficulties in securing a ride, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, provide a crucial link to healthcare access. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Priority Ambulance offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, transporting patients to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related destinations. These services typically involve specially equipped vehicles and trained personnel to ensure patient safety and comfort. However, the cost of NEMT services can be substantial, and the availability may be limited depending on insurance coverage and the patient's specific needs.

The overall health score for 35022 is influenced by a confluence of factors related to transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, can create barriers to timely healthcare access. The limited availability of public transportation, while offering some options, may not adequately meet the needs of all residents. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation services provide valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors.

The condition of the roads, the availability of sidewalks and crosswalks, and the integration of transportation with healthcare facilities all contribute to the overall health score. Initiatives to improve road infrastructure, expand public transit options, and provide financial assistance for ride-sharing or medical transportation can significantly enhance healthcare access and improve health outcomes for residents of 35022.

For those considering moving to Bessemer, a careful assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access is essential. The proximity to Birmingham and its extensive healthcare resources is a significant advantage, but the commute times and transportation costs must be factored into the decision-making process. Researching the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, as well as the condition of local roads and the presence of sidewalks, will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 35022.

Ultimately, the health of a community is a shared responsibility. By addressing the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access, and by investing in infrastructure, public transit, and supportive services, Bessemer can create a healthier and more equitable environment for all its residents. The overall health score for 35022 is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to the well-being of its people.