35175, Union Grove, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35175, Union Grove, Alabama is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.56 percent of residents in 35175 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crestwood Medical Center with a distance of 17.95 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35175 (Union Grove, AL)

Considering a move to the tranquil community of Union Grove, Alabama (ZIP code 35175)? Beyond the allure of small-town living and scenic landscapes, a crucial factor to assess is healthcare access. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating transportation options for accessing medical services, a critical component of well-being. We will delve into drive times, public transit availability, ride-share possibilities, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape.

The "Overall Health Score" for 35175 reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach necessary medical care. This score considers various factors, including the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of transportation options, and the overall convenience of accessing medical services. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score highlights potential challenges.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation in Union Grove is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Navigating the roads to reach healthcare providers is a crucial aspect of the "Overall Health Score." Residents will predominantly utilize US-231, a major north-south artery, and AL-69, a key east-west route. These highways connect Union Grove to nearby towns and cities where medical facilities are located.

For routine appointments and minor ailments, the drive to a primary care physician in nearby Arab, approximately 10-15 minutes away via US-231, is generally manageable. However, the journey to Huntsville, a major regional healthcare hub, presents a longer commute. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive to Huntsville Hospital, the largest medical facility in the area, can take between 45 minutes to an hour via US-231 and I-565.

Specialist appointments or emergency situations necessitate a swift and reliable transportation network. The "Overall Health Score" considers the potential for delays due to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Residents should factor in these time considerations when planning medical appointments. The condition of the roads, and the potential for inclement weather, such as heavy rain or ice, can also impact drive times, further influencing the "Overall Health Score."

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Union Grove and the surrounding areas are extremely limited, significantly impacting the "Overall Health Score." The lack of a robust public transit system presents a major challenge for residents without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

The North Alabama Regional Transportation Authority (NARTrans) provides some limited bus services in the broader region, but these routes typically do not directly serve Union Grove. Even if a route were available, the frequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times would likely make public transit an impractical option for many healthcare appointments. The lack of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, further restricts accessibility for individuals with disabilities, severely affecting the "Overall Health Score" for this demographic.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Union Grove may vary. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the potential for ride-sharing to provide a transportation alternative, especially for those unable to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing, particularly for longer trips to Huntsville, can be substantial, creating a financial barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments. Several companies, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and Rural Metro, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically offer transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and can accommodate individuals with specific medical needs. The "Overall Health Score" recognizes the value of these services, especially for those who cannot drive or have mobility limitations. However, the availability and cost of medical transport services can also be a factor, potentially impacting the overall accessibility and affordability of healthcare.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score"**

The "Overall Health Score" for 35175 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services all contribute to the overall assessment. The score reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare, particularly for those with mobility limitations, financial constraints, or those who do not own a vehicle.

Moving to Union Grove offers a peaceful lifestyle, but prospective residents must carefully consider the healthcare access implications. While the proximity to Arab provides convenient access to primary care, the longer commutes to Huntsville for specialized care or emergency services require careful planning. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for individuals and families evaluating their healthcare needs and making informed decisions about their relocation to Union Grove.

**Conclusion**

The "Overall Health Score" for 35175 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While residents have access to primary care in nearby Arab, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care and emergency services in Huntsville poses a challenge. The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services further impact the score. Prospective residents should carefully assess their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities when considering a move to Union Grove. Planning ahead, understanding the available resources, and factoring in potential travel times are essential for ensuring adequate healthcare access and maintaining overall well-being in this charming Alabama community.