35114, Maylene, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35114, Maylene, Alabama is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.66 percent of residents in 35114 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shelby Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 3.45 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35114 (Maylene, Alabama)**

The overall health score for residents of Maylene, Alabama (ZIP Code 35114), reflects a multifaceted picture. It encompasses the ease and efficiency with which individuals can access necessary healthcare services. This includes factors like transportation options, drive times to medical facilities, availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing or medical transport services. The health score is not simply a number; it’s a reflection of the community's ability to support the well-being of its residents. If you are **moving to Maylene**, understanding this score is crucial.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access in Maylene is its location within Shelby County, a suburban area south of Birmingham. While the community offers a tranquil, family-friendly environment, its healthcare landscape is primarily defined by its proximity to larger cities and the reliance on personal transportation.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Maylene is the personal vehicle. Drive times to medical facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns and the specific destination. For residents needing routine checkups or minor medical attention, the closest options are likely found in Alabaster, just a short drive away. This typically involves navigating **Highway 31** (also known as Montgomery Highway), the main thoroughfare connecting Maylene to the north and south. Drive times to urgent care clinics in Alabaster can be as short as 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

For more specialized care or hospital visits, residents often travel to Birmingham or Hoover. This journey involves utilizing **Highway 31** to connect with **Interstate 65 (I-65)**, a major north-south artery. The drive to hospitals in Birmingham, such as UAB Hospital or Brookwood Baptist Medical Center, can range from 30 to 45 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, particularly on weekdays, this commute can easily extend to an hour or more, significantly impacting healthcare access. This is a critical factor to consider when assessing the overall health score.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options within Maylene and the surrounding areas are limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), known as MAX, provides some bus service within the Birmingham metropolitan area. However, the availability of routes directly serving Maylene is minimal. The MAX system primarily focuses on routes within the city of Birmingham and its immediate suburbs.

Consequently, relying on public transit for healthcare access in Maylene is not a practical option for most residents. The limited routes, infrequent schedules, and potential for long travel times make it a less viable alternative to personal vehicles. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on the few routes that might serve the area is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Maylene and can provide a transportation alternative for healthcare appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some residents, especially those with frequent medical needs. The availability of drivers can also vary depending on the time of day and demand, potentially leading to delays or difficulties in securing a ride.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist individuals with medical needs, are also available in the area. These services often cater to patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical conditions that make it difficult to travel independently. The cost of medical transport can be higher than ride-sharing services, but they offer a more specialized and supportive experience.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the Birmingham metropolitan area, including Maylene. These brands may offer services ranging from basic transportation to stretcher-bound patients. Some of the brands that may serve the area include:

* **Ambulance Services:** These companies provide emergency and non-emergency medical transport.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT):** These services cater to individuals who require transportation to medical appointments but do not need emergency medical care.
* **Wheelchair Transportation:** These services are specifically designed for individuals who use wheelchairs.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for Maylene (35114) is significantly influenced by the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit options, presents challenges for some residents. Drive times to medical facilities, particularly during peak hours, can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative options, their cost and availability can be limiting factors. The lack of robust public transit further exacerbates these challenges, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or have mobility limitations.

**Moving to Maylene:**

For individuals **moving to Maylene**, it is essential to consider these transportation factors when assessing healthcare access. Proximity to medical facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential impact of traffic on drive times should be carefully evaluated.

The overall health score for Maylene, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers a desirable living environment, the transportation challenges can impact healthcare access for some residents. It is crucial to be aware of these factors and plan accordingly to ensure timely and convenient access to necessary medical services. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Maylene**.