35054, Cropwell, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35054, Cropwell, Alabama is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.33 percent of residents in 35054 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shelby Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 35.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35054 (Cropwell, Alabama)

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which one can access medical services significantly impacts quality of life. This analysis delves into the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access within ZIP Code 35054, focusing on Cropwell, Alabama, to provide an "Overall Health Score." This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering **moving to Cropwell**.

ZIP Code 35054, nestled in St. Clair County, presents a unique challenge: it’s a largely rural area with limited public transportation. The **transportation** infrastructure is primarily designed for personal vehicles, influencing the **healthcare access** landscape. The "Overall Health Score" for this area will reflect these realities, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses in the ability to reach necessary medical care.

**Drive Times: The Dominant Mode of Transportation**

The primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in 35054 is by car. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in neighboring cities, primarily in Birmingham and Gadsden. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles to navigate the roadways.

Traveling to Birmingham, the largest metropolitan area nearby, typically involves using **Highway 11 (US-11)**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Depending on the specific location within 35054 and the destination within Birmingham, drive times can vary significantly. Expect a commute of approximately 45 minutes to an hour to reach major hospitals like UAB Hospital or St. Vincent's Birmingham, under normal traffic conditions. **Highway 231** provides another route, offering a slightly longer but potentially less congested option, especially when heading towards the eastern side of Birmingham.

For those seeking healthcare closer to home, the town of Pell City, located a short drive away, provides some options. Accessing Pell City involves using **Highway 78** or **Highway 411**, depending on the starting point within Cropwell. Drive times to Pell City's medical facilities, such as St. Vincent's St. Clair, are considerably shorter, typically ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. This proximity makes Pell City a more convenient option for routine appointments and urgent care needs.

The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times. Residents must be prepared for potential delays due to traffic, construction, or adverse weather conditions, especially when traveling on **Highway 11**.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options within ZIP Code 35054 are extremely limited. St. Clair County lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive, or are unable to secure rides from friends or family.

The lack of public transit forces many to rely on personal vehicles or alternative means of **transportation** to reach medical appointments. This can be particularly challenging for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of readily available public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative options for those who cannot drive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Securing a ride can sometimes require advance planning, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. While ride-sharing can provide a valuable **transportation** option, it can also be expensive, potentially limiting its accessibility for some residents.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and other private providers, offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical assistance during travel. However, medical transport services can be costly and often require pre-booking.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 35054 is moderate. While the proximity of Pell City offers convenient access to some medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to **healthcare access** for some residents.

The **transportation** infrastructure in Cropwell presents challenges, especially for those without personal vehicles. The need to travel to Birmingham or Gadsden for specialized care adds to the time and expense of accessing medical services. The lack of a robust public transit system further compounds these challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Cropwell**, understanding these **transportation** and **healthcare access** realities is essential. While the area offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, residents must be prepared for the potential difficulties of navigating the healthcare system. Careful planning, exploring all available options, and considering the potential costs associated with **transportation** are crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. The "Overall Health Score" is impacted by the need for personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options.