35128, Pell City, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35128, Pell City, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.57 percent of residents in 35128 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 3.31 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35128 (Pell City, Alabama)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately linked to its ability to access healthcare. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 35128, Pell City, Alabama, evaluating its impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities. This "Overall Health Score" considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for those considering moving to Pell City and assessing their healthcare access.

Pell City, a charming city nestled in St. Clair County, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the city offers a blend of suburban and rural settings, its healthcare infrastructure, while present, is not as densely concentrated as in larger metropolitan areas. The primary factors influencing the overall health score are the distances to healthcare facilities, the availability of alternative transportation options, and the overall ease of navigating the local transportation network.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

The primary arteries for transportation within and around Pell City are Interstate 20 (I-20), U.S. Highway 78, and Alabama State Route 34. I-20 serves as the major east-west thoroughfare, connecting Pell City to Birmingham and Atlanta. U.S. Highway 78 runs parallel to I-20, offering a more local route, while Alabama State Route 34 provides access to the southern part of the city and surrounding areas.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. The Pell City Medical Center, a primary healthcare provider, is conveniently located within the city, minimizing travel time for many residents. However, specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, may necessitate travel to Birmingham, approximately 45 to 60 minutes away via I-20. This extended commute can be a significant barrier for those with mobility limitations, chronic conditions, or urgent medical needs.

Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can further exacerbate drive times. While Pell City generally experiences less traffic than larger cities, rush hour on I-20 can add considerable time to a journey. Accidents, construction, and weather conditions can also cause delays, impacting healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Pell City are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. There is no established public bus system within the city. The lack of a robust public transit system restricts healthcare access for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a car.

While there are no dedicated bus routes serving the city, the Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, provides limited service to neighboring areas. However, these routes are not designed to serve the city directly.

The absence of a comprehensive public transit system underscores the importance of other transportation options, particularly for those who cannot drive. The city would benefit from a more robust public transit system to enhance healthcare access for all residents.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who do not own a car or cannot drive. However, the availability of these services in Pell City can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, play a vital role in bridging the healthcare access gap. These services are designed to transport individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs to and from healthcare appointments. Several NEMT providers operate in the Pell City area, offering transportation services for doctor's appointments, dialysis treatments, and other medical needs.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor when evaluating transportation options. Public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers must adhere to ADA guidelines to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access these services.

While ride-sharing services are required to comply with ADA regulations, the availability of accessible vehicles may be limited. Medical transport providers typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles, but it is essential to confirm availability and book in advance.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35128 reflects a mixed picture. While Pell City has a local medical center and the primary roads are well-maintained, the absence of a robust public transit system and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. Drive times to specialized care in Birmingham can be significant, and the availability of ride-sharing services may be inconsistent.

For those considering moving to Pell City, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Individuals with mobility limitations or chronic conditions should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore available options. The presence of medical transport services provides a valuable safety net, but advance planning is essential.

The city could significantly improve its overall health score by investing in public transit infrastructure. A well-designed bus system, with routes connecting residential areas to healthcare facilities, would enhance healthcare access for all residents. The city's continued growth and development may create a need for enhanced transportation options.

In conclusion, while Pell City offers local healthcare options, the transportation landscape presents challenges. Careful planning, awareness of available services, and proactive engagement with healthcare providers are essential for ensuring adequate healthcare access. The overall health score is influenced by the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the availability of alternative transportation options, and the overall ease of navigating the local transportation network.