35173, Trussville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35173, Trussville, Alabama is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.18 percent of residents in 35173 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Birmingham with a distance of 14.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Trussville (ZIP Code 35173)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Trussville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35173), focusing specifically on their access to healthcare facilities via various modes of transportation. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical care is crucial for residents, especially those considering moving to Trussville. The analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The health score is not a single number but a multifaceted evaluation. It incorporates the physical distance to healthcare providers, the efficiency and reliability of available transportation options, and the potential barriers individuals might face, such as cost or mobility limitations. This assessment aims to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape for current and prospective residents.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Dominant Mode**

For many Trussville residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The city's location, nestled between Birmingham and the surrounding suburbs, shapes the driving experience. The primary arteries for accessing medical facilities are Interstate 59 (I-59) and U.S. Highway 11 (also known as Parkway East).

Traveling south on I-59 offers direct access to the Birmingham metropolitan area, home to numerous hospitals, specialty clinics, and medical centers. The drive to major hospitals like UAB Hospital and St. Vincent’s Birmingham can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend these travel times, impacting healthcare access.

Alternatively, using U.S. Highway 11 provides a more direct route to some healthcare providers located closer to Trussville, such as those in the neighboring cities of Center Point and Roebuck. However, this route can also be susceptible to congestion, especially during peak hours.

For residents living in the northern parts of Trussville, accessing facilities in the northern suburbs, like those in Gardendale or Fultondale, might involve navigating local roads and potentially encountering traffic on I-65, which is a major north-south highway. The condition of local roads, including their maintenance and traffic flow, also plays a role in the overall driving experience.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Trussville and the surrounding areas are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, provides bus service to the region, but its routes and frequency are not extensive in Trussville.

The primary MAX route serving Trussville is Route 20, which connects the city to downtown Birmingham. This route offers a connection to other bus lines, providing access to a wider range of destinations, including some medical facilities. However, the frequency of Route 20 is typically hourly or less frequent, making it less convenient for healthcare appointments.

Furthermore, the accessibility of MAX buses is a critical consideration. All MAX buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps or lifts for wheelchair users and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the long travel times and potential for transfers can still pose challenges for those with mobility limitations. The availability of accessible bus stops with adequate seating and shelter is also a factor.

The lack of extensive public transit options underscores the dependence on private vehicles and highlights the need for alternative transportation solutions, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not own a car.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a supplementary transportation option for Trussville residents. These services can provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, offering greater flexibility than public transit. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can vary, particularly during peak demand or in areas with limited driver availability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer another vital resource. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The reliability and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial factors in assessing healthcare access. Residents should research and familiarize themselves with the options available in their area, considering factors such as cost, wait times, and the level of assistance provided.

**Factors Influencing the Health Score**

Several factors influence the overall health score for healthcare access in Trussville. The distance to medical facilities is a primary consideration. Residents living closer to healthcare providers, or those with access to reliable transportation, will generally have better access.

Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times and healthcare access. The availability and frequency of public transit routes also play a crucial role, especially for those without personal vehicles.

The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fares, and medical transport fees, is another critical factor. The affordability of transportation can impact an individual's ability to access healthcare.

Finally, the physical and cognitive abilities of individuals, including their mobility and ability to navigate transportation systems, are also significant factors. The availability of accessible transportation options and support services is essential for ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

**Conclusion: A Mixed Bag**

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Trussville is a mixed bag. While the city's proximity to Birmingham provides access to a wide range of medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges.

The drive times to healthcare facilities can be reasonable, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, particularly during peak hours. Public transit options are limited, posing a barrier for those without access to a car. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer supplementary solutions, but their availability and cost can vary.

For residents considering moving to Trussville, understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial. They should assess their transportation needs and consider the accessibility of healthcare providers based on their individual circumstances. As Trussville continues to grow, investing in improved public transit options and promoting the availability of affordable transportation alternatives will be critical for enhancing healthcare access and improving the overall health score for all residents.