35063, Empire, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35063, Empire, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.33 percent of residents in 35063 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Walker Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 15.85 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35063

The pursuit of optimal health is a multifaceted endeavor, profoundly influenced by the ease with which individuals can access vital healthcare services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 35063, focusing on the crucial element of transportation to healthcare facilities. This assessment considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those residing in and considering **moving to Empire**, Alabama.

ZIP Code 35063 encompasses the charming community of Empire, nestled within the rolling hills of Blount County. Its location, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The area is primarily rural, with limited public transportation options, making reliance on personal vehicles a commonality. This reliance necessitates an in-depth examination of transportation infrastructure and its impact on residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Empire are US-231 and AL-160. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to critical medical services. Birmingham, the nearest metropolitan hub with comprehensive healthcare facilities, is approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive, depending on traffic conditions. This drive time presents a significant barrier for those requiring immediate medical attention, particularly in emergency situations.

The closest urgent care facilities and primary care physicians are located in nearby towns such as Warrior and Hayden. These facilities are accessible via shorter drives, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes along AL-160 and local roads. However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, and specialized surgery, is limited in these smaller towns, necessitating travel to Birmingham.

The condition of the roads is a factor. The quality of AL-160 and US-231 are generally acceptable. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy rain or snow, these roads can become hazardous, further complicating transportation to healthcare facilities. This consideration is especially pertinent for elderly residents or those with mobility impairments.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation options within and around ZIP Code 35063 are extremely limited. Blount County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant disadvantage for individuals who do not own vehicles, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the expenses associated with personal vehicle ownership and maintenance.

The absence of public transit also impacts the ability of residents to access non-emergency healthcare appointments, such as routine check-ups, specialist consultations, and physical therapy. The lack of **transportation** options can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

While the absence of a formal bus system is a critical issue, there is a potential for demand-response services or volunteer driver programs. However, such programs are often underfunded and may not provide reliable access to healthcare facilities, especially during evenings, weekends, or holidays.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Birmingham metropolitan area and may provide a viable **transportation** option for some residents of ZIP Code 35063. However, the availability of these services in Empire itself may be limited, and surge pricing during peak demand times or inclement weather can make them cost-prohibitive for many.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are also available. Ambulance services are essential for emergency situations, but the cost can be substantial. NEMT providers offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, but their availability and coverage area may be limited.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for low-income individuals, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions. The reliance on these services can also lead to delays in accessing care, as scheduling and availability are often subject to factors outside the patient's control.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems and healthcare facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of public transit in ZIP Code 35063 effectively limits access for those with mobility impairments. Even with the availability of ride-sharing services, the lack of ADA-compliant vehicles can pose a challenge.

Healthcare facilities in the area are generally required to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring that their buildings and services are accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the journey to reach these facilities remains a significant obstacle for many.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, the "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 35063 is considered to be moderate. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in **transportation** options significantly impact **healthcare access**. This is a critical consideration for those **moving to Empire**.

The primary challenges include:

* **Limited public transit:** The absence of a public bus system severely restricts access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Drive times to specialized care:** Travel to Birmingham for specialized medical services can be time-consuming and stressful.
* **Cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation:** These services can be expensive and may not be readily available.

To improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance **healthcare access** for residents of ZIP Code 35063, the following recommendations are offered:

* **Advocate for public transit:** Community leaders should advocate for the development of a public transportation system, even if it starts with a limited route or demand-response service.
* **Promote ride-sharing partnerships:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation options for medical appointments.
* **Support NEMT providers:** Encourage the expansion of NEMT services to ensure reliable and affordable transportation for non-emergency medical needs.
* **Encourage telehealth adoption:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine consultations and follow-up care.
* **Improve road infrastructure:** Advocate for improvements to AL-160 and US-231 to enhance safety and reduce travel times.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, the community can work towards ensuring that all residents of ZIP Code 35063 have equitable access to the **healthcare** they need, fostering a healthier and more vibrant community. This is a crucial aspect for individuals considering **moving to Empire** and seeking a good quality of life.