35049, Cleveland, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35049, Cleveland, Alabama is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.09 percent of residents in 35049 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cullman Regional Medical Center with a distance of 20.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35049

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report analyzes the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 35049, focusing on the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. We assess the available modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing an “Overall Health Score” reflecting the accessibility of healthcare within this area. This information is crucial for individuals considering moving to Cleveland, or any location within this ZIP code, and seeking to understand their healthcare access.

ZIP Code 35049, encompassing the town of Cleveland, Alabama, presents a unique challenge in terms of healthcare access. Situated in a more rural setting, the area's transportation infrastructure differs significantly from that of a major metropolitan center. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars underscores the importance of well-maintained roads and reasonable drive times to reach medical facilities. The condition of the roads, and the availability of transportation options, are critical factors in determining the overall health score.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant indicator of healthcare access. The primary roadways serving the area are Alabama State Route 79 and County Road 22. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially increasing drive times. The nearest hospitals, such as St. Vincent's Blount Hospital in Oneonta and Cullman Regional Medical Center in Cullman, are accessible via these routes. Drive times to these facilities can vary, but typically range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the hospital complex.

The availability of public transit is another crucial factor in determining healthcare access. Unfortunately, public transportation options within ZIP Code 35049 are limited. The Blount County-Oneonta Public Transit (BCOPT) offers some services, but the routes and schedules may not be fully comprehensive in covering the needs of all residents, especially those requiring regular medical appointments. The lack of extensive public transit options can disproportionately affect individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities. The absence of robust public transportation significantly impacts the overall health score.

The BCOPT system offers limited ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible features, including wheelchair lifts on some buses. However, the frequency and coverage of these accessible services might not fully meet the needs of all individuals with disabilities. The accessibility of public transit is a critical aspect of healthcare access, and its limitations in this area contribute to a lower overall health score. The lack of consistent, reliable, and accessible public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for a segment of the population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The reliability of ride-sharing services is crucial for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes. The cost and availability of these services are important considerations when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, are available in the area. These services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, cater to individuals requiring specialized transport to medical appointments. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans. The availability and affordability of these services are critical for individuals with mobility limitations or other health conditions.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35049 is moderate. While the availability of personal vehicles and drive times to healthcare facilities are generally acceptable, the limitations in public transit, the potential inconsistency of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services present challenges. These factors combine to create a healthcare access landscape that, while not entirely prohibitive, requires careful consideration for residents.

The ease of accessing healthcare is a crucial aspect of community well-being. The availability of transportation options, the drive times to medical facilities, and the cost of transportation services all contribute to the overall health score. Individuals considering moving to Cleveland, or any location within this ZIP code, should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals can significantly impact the ease of access to care. The proximity of pharmacies, urgent care clinics, and other healthcare facilities further enhances the overall health score.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 35049 reflects the interplay of these various factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing services contribute to a moderate score. The availability of medical transport services and the presence of healthcare providers within the community can partially mitigate these challenges.

The health score is not static; it can change over time. Improvements in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the development of new healthcare facilities can all positively impact the score. Similarly, changes in road conditions, traffic congestion, or the cost of transportation services can negatively affect the score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35049 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing services present barriers. Individuals considering moving to Cleveland should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. The health score is a dynamic measure that can be improved through investments in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of healthcare services, and the promotion of community health initiatives. The healthcare access landscape is a vital consideration for anyone moving to Cleveland.