35117, Mount Olive, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35117, Mount Olive, Alabama is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.55 percent of residents in 35117 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 32.60 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35117 (Mount Olive, AL)

Assessing the overall health of a community involves a multifaceted examination, and one crucial element is the ease with which residents can access healthcare. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 35117 (Mount Olive, Alabama), evaluating the available options for residents to reach medical facilities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, painting a picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Mount Olive.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Mount Olive is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area is largely suburban and rural, making public transportation less prevalent. The major thoroughfares, including **Interstate 65 (I-65)**, **Highway 31**, and **Highway 79**, are essential for navigating the region. Commuting to healthcare facilities often involves driving, and the duration of these trips significantly impacts the overall health score.

Driving times to the nearest hospitals and clinics vary depending on the specific location within 35117 and the destination. **St. Vincent's St. Clair**, located in Pell City, is a common destination, with drive times typically ranging from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-65 and Highway 79. **Brookwood Baptist Medical Center**, in Birmingham, presents a longer commute, often requiring 45 minutes to an hour via I-65, especially during peak hours. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in nearby communities, such as Gardendale and Fultondale, offer shorter drive times, usually within 15 to 20 minutes via Highway 31 or I-65.

Public transportation options are limited in Mount Olive. The **Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA)**, operating as **MAX**, provides some bus service within the broader Birmingham metropolitan area. However, direct routes serving Mount Olive are scarce. Residents may need to travel to a central hub, such as downtown Birmingham, and transfer to reach healthcare facilities. This can significantly increase travel time and complexity. The BJCTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, but the infrequency of service and potential for multiple transfers pose challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the area. However, their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of 35117, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are available to assist individuals with specific needs. **Medicaid** recipients and those with certain disabilities may qualify for non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. Several providers operate in the area, including **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local ambulance services. These services typically require prior scheduling and may have specific eligibility criteria. The availability and responsiveness of these services are crucial for ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Considering these factors, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 35117 presents a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles presents both advantages and disadvantages. Driving offers flexibility and direct routes, but it also necessitates car ownership and the ability to drive. The commute times to larger hospitals in Birmingham can be substantial, potentially delaying access to critical care.

The limited public transportation options further exacerbate the challenges. The lack of direct bus routes and the need for transfers increase travel time and complexity, particularly for those without access to a car. While the BJCTA strives for accessibility, the infrequency of service can be a significant barrier.

Ride-sharing services provide a valuable alternative, but their availability and cost can be limiting factors. Medical transportation services offer a lifeline for those with specific needs, but eligibility requirements and scheduling processes can be complex.

For individuals considering moving to Mount Olive, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the practicality of accessing healthcare facilities.

The overall health score is significantly influenced by the accessibility of healthcare facilities. While Mount Olive offers a relatively safe and affordable living environment, the transportation challenges can impact the overall health and well-being of its residents.

The availability of healthcare providers within Mount Olive itself is also a factor. Having local clinics and primary care physicians reduces the need for extensive travel. However, the availability of specialized medical services may still require travel to Birmingham or other regional centers. The balance between local healthcare options and the need for specialized care influences the overall health score.

The future of healthcare access in Mount Olive may involve efforts to improve public transportation, such as exploring partnerships with the BJCTA to extend bus routes or establish demand-response transit services. Encouraging the development of telehealth services could also enhance healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 35117 reflects the realities of a suburban and rural environment. While personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the dependence on medical transportation services for specific needs create a complex landscape. For those considering moving to Mount Olive, a careful evaluation of their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential to ensure they can access the care they require. This assessment is crucial in understanding the true impact of transportation on the overall health and well-being of the community.