35206, Birmingham, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35206, Birmingham, Alabama is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.51 percent of residents in 35206 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St. Vincent's East with a distance of 1.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35206

Navigating the intricate web of healthcare access within Birmingham's 35206 ZIP code presents a complex picture, significantly influenced by transportation options. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. The score will reflect the reality of living in this area, offering insights for current residents and those considering moving to Birmingham.

The geography of 35206, encompassing parts of downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, impacts healthcare access. The presence of major thoroughfares like **Interstate 65 (I-65)**, **Interstate 20 (I-20)**, and **U.S. Highway 31 (US-31)**, along with arterial roads such as **University Boulevard**, **20th Street North**, and **1st Avenue North**, shapes commute times. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impede healthcare access, potentially delaying crucial medical attention.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary widely depending on the destination and time of day. For instance, reaching **UAB Hospital**, a major medical center, from different points within 35206 can range from a few minutes during off-peak hours to upwards of 20-30 minutes during rush hour. Similarly, access to clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout the city requires careful consideration of traffic patterns. This underscores the importance of planning and proactive transportation strategies.

Public transit offers an alternative, yet its effectiveness in 35206 presents challenges. The **Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA)**, operating under the brand name **MAX**, provides bus routes serving the area. Several routes, including **Route 2 (20th Street)**, **Route 3 (Five Points South)**, and **Route 4 (University)**, traverse the ZIP code, potentially offering direct or connecting services to healthcare facilities. However, frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

The accessibility of MAX services for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. The BJCTA is mandated to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that buses are equipped with features like ramps or lifts. However, the overall experience can still be challenging due to factors like sidewalk accessibility, the distance between bus stops and medical facilities, and the need for transfers. The availability of real-time tracking and information on the MAX website and app enhances the user experience.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, have become increasingly prevalent, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle. However, costs can be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase expenses, impacting healthcare affordability.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like **MedTrans** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. These services are often covered by insurance, making them a viable option for those who cannot utilize other forms of transportation. However, availability and scheduling can sometimes be a challenge, requiring advance planning.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 35206 is therefore multifaceted. While the presence of major highways and the availability of ride-sharing services offer advantages, the limitations of public transit, traffic congestion, and the cost of transportation significantly impact the score. The score also reflects the degree of ADA compliance and the availability of medical transport services.

The score also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. 35206 benefits from being located near major hospitals and a range of clinics and specialist offices. This proximity enhances healthcare access compared to more remote locations. However, the concentration of healthcare providers in certain areas can also lead to increased traffic congestion, further impacting commute times.

For individuals considering moving to Birmingham, understanding the transportation landscape in 35206 is crucial. Factors like personal mobility, financial resources, and the frequency of medical appointments should be carefully considered. The availability of various transportation options, from driving to ride-sharing and public transit, offers a degree of flexibility.

The "Overall Health Score" for 35206, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from the presence of major healthcare providers and a range of transportation options, the challenges of traffic congestion, limited public transit frequency, and the cost of ride-sharing services impact the ease of healthcare access. A comprehensive evaluation of these factors is essential for residents and those planning to move to the area.

The score is not a static measure. It is influenced by ongoing developments in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of public transit services, and the evolution of ride-sharing and medical transport options. The BJCTA's commitment to ADA compliance and the continued availability of medical transport services are crucial to improving the score.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" is a tool to assess the complexities of healthcare access in 35206. It serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about the availability of medical facilities but also about the ability of individuals to reach those facilities efficiently and affordably. This information is vital for making informed decisions about healthcare and transportation within this dynamic urban environment.