35136, Rockford, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35136, Rockford, Alabama is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.82 percent of residents in 35136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russell Medical Center with a distance of 19.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35136 (Rockford, Alabama)

Assessing the overall health of a community involves a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of healthcare facilities but also the ease with which residents can access them. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 35136, encompassing the town of Rockford, Alabama, and examines the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access. We will dissect drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" related to healthcare access for potential residents considering moving to Rockford.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Rockford is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's relatively rural setting necessitates driving for most residents to reach medical appointments. The nearest significant healthcare hubs are located in Sylacauga, approximately 15 miles to the north, and Clanton, roughly 25 miles to the south.

Traveling north to Sylacauga, residents typically utilize **Highway 280** and **Highway 231**. Drive times to Coosa Valley Medical Center, the primary hospital in Sylacauga, can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Rockford. This journey, while manageable, requires careful planning, especially for those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs. The roads are generally well-maintained, but potential delays from weather events, such as heavy rain or occasional snow, should be considered.

Southbound travel to Clanton involves navigating **Highway 22** and **Highway 31**. Chilton Medical Center in Clanton offers another healthcare alternative. The drive time to Clanton can vary from 30 to 40 minutes. This route, while longer, provides access to a different set of medical specialists and services. The scenic beauty of the Alabama countryside is a bonus, but the extended travel time presents a challenge for individuals requiring frequent medical care.

Public transportation options in Rockford are limited. Tallapoosa County, which encompasses Rockford, does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of public transit significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. This transportation gap creates a barrier to accessing healthcare services, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments and ultimately affecting health outcomes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Rockford are variable. While these services offer a potential solution for transportation, their cost can be prohibitive for some, especially for regular medical appointments. Furthermore, the limited number of drivers in the area can result in longer wait times, making them less practical for urgent medical needs.

Specialized medical transportation services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with specific needs. Companies like **First Response Ambulance Service** and **Care Ambulance Service** operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically cater to patients requiring assistance with mobility or those who cannot drive themselves. However, these services are often pre-booked and require coordination, which may not always be feasible in emergency situations.

The accessibility of healthcare in Rockford is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the town itself. Rockford has a small number of primary care physicians and a pharmacy. While these local resources offer convenient access to basic medical care and medications, residents often need to travel to Sylacauga or Clanton for specialized treatments, diagnostic testing, and hospitalizations.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35136 is moderately impacted by the transportation landscape. While the drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the lack of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for certain segments of the population. The reliance on personal vehicles and the associated costs of fuel and maintenance can also strain the financial resources of residents.

Moving to Rockford requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. Individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle should investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services. Those considering a move should also factor in the potential travel time to access specialized medical care.

To improve the overall health score related to healthcare access, several interventions could be implemented. Introducing a demand-response public transportation system, even on a limited basis, would significantly benefit residents without personal vehicles. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation options for medical appointments could also enhance accessibility. Furthermore, attracting more healthcare providers to Rockford, including specialists, would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care.

The community's commitment to improving healthcare access is essential. By addressing the transportation challenges and supporting local healthcare providers, Rockford can create a healthier and more accessible environment for all its residents. This proactive approach will not only improve the overall health score but also enhance the quality of life for those who call Rockford home.