35147, Sterrett, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.90 percent of residents in 35147 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 19.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35147 (Sterrett, Alabama)

This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 35147, focusing on the crucial aspect of **healthcare access** through **transportation** options. We'll delve into drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport solutions. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering **moving to Sterrett**, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The geographical isolation of Sterrett, nestled in Shelby County, presents unique challenges and opportunities. While the community offers a serene lifestyle, its proximity to larger urban centers like Birmingham is essential for accessing specialized medical services. The "Overall Health Score" considers the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach various healthcare facilities.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary arteries connecting Sterrett to healthcare providers are Interstate 20 (I-20) and U.S. Highway 280. The drive time to the nearest major hospitals, such as Grandview Medical Center and St. Vincent's East, is a critical factor. These facilities offer a wide range of medical specialties and emergency services.

Driving to Grandview Medical Center, located in Birmingham, typically involves traveling west on I-20. The drive is generally between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly on weekdays, can significantly extend this travel time.

St. Vincent's East, also in Birmingham, can be accessed via U.S. Highway 280. The drive time is similar, ranging from 35 to 50 minutes. This route often experiences heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are available closer to Sterrett, but they may not offer the same level of specialized care. These facilities, accessible via local roads like Shelby County Road 47 and Shelby County Road 11, offer quicker access for routine medical needs. However, for serious illnesses or injuries, the longer drive to major hospitals remains necessary.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transit options within Shelby County are limited, impacting the "Overall Health Score." The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, provides bus service, but its routes primarily serve the city of Birmingham and surrounding areas.

There is no direct public transit route that serves Sterrett. Residents would need to utilize ride-sharing services or rely on personal vehicles to reach the nearest MAX bus stops. This lack of public transit significantly reduces the accessibility of healthcare for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive.

The absence of public transit also impacts individuals with disabilities. The BJCTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, but the lack of routes serving Sterrett effectively eliminates this option for residents with mobility limitations. This deficiency further lowers the "Overall Health Score" for this vulnerable population.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option for accessing healthcare. However, their availability and cost can vary. In Sterrett, ride-sharing services are generally available, but response times may be longer than in urban areas.

The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The distance to major hospitals translates into higher fares, potentially impacting a resident's ability to afford necessary care.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and Priority Ambulance, provide non-emergency and emergency medical transportation.

These services are often covered by insurance, but prior authorization may be required. The availability of these services in Sterrett is generally good, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak hours.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 35147 is moderately impacted by **transportation** limitations. While residents have access to major hospitals via car, the reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of public transit create challenges.

The drive times to hospitals are manageable but can be significantly impacted by traffic. Ride-sharing services provide an alternative, but the cost and potential wait times are factors. Medical transport services offer specialized solutions for those with mobility limitations.

The score is further influenced by the availability of local clinics and urgent care facilities, offering more immediate access to routine medical needs. However, the need for specialized care necessitates travel to Birmingham, impacting the overall accessibility.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving the "Overall Health Score" in Sterrett requires addressing the **transportation** challenges. Potential solutions include:

* Advocating for the extension of BJCTA bus routes to serve Sterrett, providing affordable and accessible **transportation**.
* Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments.
* Promoting the use of medical transport services and ensuring residents are aware of their availability and coverage options.
* Encouraging the development of additional healthcare facilities within Sterrett or nearby communities to reduce travel times.

By addressing these issues, the community can enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve **healthcare access** for all residents, making Sterrett a more attractive and healthy place to live, particularly for those considering **moving to Sterrett**. The ability to readily access quality medical care is a fundamental aspect of community well-being.