35035, Brierfield, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health 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.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35035 (Brierfield, Alabama)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 35035, encompassing the charming community of Brierfield, necessitates a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access. This analysis examines the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, focusing on the various transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals seeking healthcare in this rural Alabama setting.

The primary factor influencing the health score is the distance and accessibility of healthcare facilities. Brierfield, nestled in Bibb County, is not densely populated, and the nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in surrounding towns and cities. This geographical reality immediately introduces a transportation hurdle for residents. The ability to reach these facilities quickly and reliably becomes paramount in determining the quality of healthcare access.

For residents with personal vehicles, the primary routes to healthcare destinations involve navigating the local road network. Highway 25, a major thoroughfare, provides a direct link to the city of Montevallo, where the Shelby Baptist Medical Center offers a range of services. The drive time to Montevallo, assuming normal traffic conditions, is typically around 20-30 minutes. However, this time can fluctuate considerably depending on the time of day and any unforeseen incidents along the route.

Further afield, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Medical Center, a renowned academic medical center, represents a more distant but potentially necessary option for specialized care. Reaching UAB requires traveling on Highway 25 to Interstate 65 North, which then leads directly to Birmingham. The drive to UAB can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Alternative routes, such as utilizing County Road 10 or County Road 12, offer potential shortcuts, but these roads are often less well-maintained and may be subject to flooding or other hazards, especially during inclement weather. These factors underscore the importance of a reliable personal vehicle and the ability to navigate potentially challenging road conditions.

Public transportation options in Brierfield and the surrounding areas are limited. Bibb County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or cannot afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership.

The absence of robust public transportation highlights the need for alternative solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and affordability can vary. Residents may face challenges in securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for low-income individuals.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation may operate in the area. However, the availability of these services and their coverage area should be thoroughly investigated. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible transportation is particularly critical. Public transit systems, when available, are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility features such as ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the absence of public transit in Brierfield leaves residents with disabilities reliant on alternative options, such as ride-sharing services or medical transportation, which may not always be fully accessible or readily available.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 35035 is significantly impacted by the limitations in healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation all contribute to a lower score. The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the limited transportation options, creates a situation where residents may face delays in accessing care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.

The health score can be improved by focusing on several key areas. Enhancing the availability of public transportation, even if it is a limited or on-demand service, would significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted or subsidized rides to medical appointments could also improve access.

Furthermore, promoting the development of telehealth services and expanding the availability of mobile healthcare units could bring healthcare directly to the community, reducing the need for travel. Educating residents about available transportation options, including medical transportation services and ride-sharing, is also crucial.

For individuals contemplating moving to Brierfield, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should consider their transportation needs, assess the availability and affordability of transportation options, and factor in the distance to healthcare facilities. Understanding the potential challenges associated with healthcare access is crucial for making an informed decision about relocating to this community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 35035 is negatively impacted by the challenges associated with transportation to healthcare. Addressing these challenges through the expansion of transportation options, the promotion of telehealth services, and the education of residents about available resources is essential to improving healthcare access and ultimately, the overall health and well-being of the community. The ability to reach medical care promptly and reliably is a fundamental aspect of a healthy community, and in Brierfield, this requires careful consideration and proactive solutions.