35135, Riverside, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35135, Riverside, Alabama is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.63 percent of residents in 35135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 5.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35135

Welcome to Riverside, Alabama, where the tranquility of small-town living meets the practicalities of modern life. Considering a move to this charming community? Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This report offers an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 35135, focusing on the critical element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for prospective residents.

The foundation of healthcare access in Riverside lies in its proximity to larger medical centers. While Riverside itself boasts some local medical facilities, residents often need to travel to Birmingham and surrounding areas for specialized care. This necessitates a robust understanding of transportation options. The "Overall Health Score" considers the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach necessary medical appointments, factoring in both the time and the financial burden of travel.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries connecting Riverside to healthcare hubs are Interstate 20 (I-20) and US Highway 78. These highways are crucial for accessing hospitals, specialist clinics, and urgent care facilities. For instance, a trip to the St. Vincent's East hospital in Birmingham, a popular choice for residents, typically involves a journey of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route primarily utilizes I-20 West.

Another common destination is the UAB Hospital, a major medical center in Birmingham. The drive to UAB, primarily via I-20 West, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, again influenced by traffic conditions. Rush hour, especially during weekdays, can significantly extend these travel times. US Highway 78 offers an alternative route, though it often experiences slower speeds and more traffic lights, potentially adding to the overall travel time.

Smaller clinics and doctor's offices may be accessible via local roads like Riverside Parkway and Stemley Bridge Road, which can offer quicker access for routine appointments. However, these routes are generally less direct for reaching larger medical centers. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the importance of both speed and convenience in determining healthcare access.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Riverside and the surrounding areas are limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, provides bus service within the city of Birmingham. However, direct routes from Riverside to Birmingham are not available. Residents would need to rely on a combination of personal vehicles or ride-share services to reach a MAX bus stop.

This lack of direct public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a car, especially those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The "Overall Health Score" considers the impact of limited public transportation on healthcare access for vulnerable populations. The BJCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, but the lack of convenient routes from Riverside diminishes their utility for residents of ZIP code 35135.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Riverside, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The "Overall Health Score" weighs the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services in its assessment.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available in the area. These services are crucial for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that prevent them from driving. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and various local ambulance providers operate in the region. NEMT services often require pre-booking and may have limitations on the distance they cover. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the importance of these services for individuals with specific medical needs.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the availability of healthcare providers within Riverside itself. While the community has some local medical facilities, the range of specialized services is limited. Residents often need to travel to Birmingham or surrounding areas for specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or specialized surgery. The proximity to these specialized services is a critical factor in determining the overall health score.

The availability of urgent care facilities is also a significant consideration. These facilities provide immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions. The presence of nearby urgent care centers can reduce the burden on emergency rooms and provide convenient access to care. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the availability of urgent care options in relation to Riverside.

**The "Overall Health Score" and Moving to Riverside:**

For individuals considering moving to Riverside, the "Overall Health Score" provides a valuable assessment of healthcare accessibility. The score takes into account the drive times to major medical centers, the availability of public transit and ride-share services, and the presence of local medical facilities.

The score also considers the financial implications of transportation, including the cost of gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services. The accessibility of healthcare directly influences the quality of life for residents. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 35135 reflects a mixed picture. While Riverside benefits from its proximity to major medical centers in Birmingham, the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation and the limited public transit options present challenges. Ride-sharing services offer an alternative, but the cost and availability can be a barrier. The "Overall Health Score" considers these factors, providing prospective residents with a realistic understanding of healthcare access in Riverside. Careful consideration of individual needs and circumstances is essential when evaluating the suitability of Riverside as a place to live, especially concerning the critical aspect of healthcare access and the associated transportation requirements.