35213, Birmingham, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35213, Birmingham, Alabama is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.82 percent of residents in 35213 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Birmingham with a distance of 2.39 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35213

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount when considering a move, especially to a new city like Birmingham, Alabama. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 35213, evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities based on transportation options. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

ZIP code 35213, encompassing parts of Birmingham, offers a diverse landscape. However, its healthcare accessibility, particularly concerning transportation, presents unique challenges and opportunities. This assessment aims to equip potential residents with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Driving Times: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation in Birmingham, and thus for healthcare access, is the automobile. The efficiency of this mode is significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours. Residents of 35213 often rely on major thoroughfares like Interstate 20/59 (I-20/59) and U.S. Highway 78 (US-78) to reach hospitals and clinics.

Drive times to major healthcare providers vary considerably. For instance, reaching the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, a major medical center, from the eastern parts of 35213 can take 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or more, especially if navigating the congested areas around the I-20/59 interchange.

Accessing facilities in other areas, such as those located in the suburb of Trussville, via US-11, may take a shorter time. However, the overall accessibility depends on the specific location within the ZIP code. Residents near US-78 might have a quicker route to some facilities, while those in the south might find I-20/59 more convenient.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Birmingham's public transit system, operated by the Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), offers limited options for healthcare access within 35213. While the BJCTA provides bus routes, their coverage and frequency can be restrictive.

Several bus routes serve portions of 35213. Route 14, for example, might offer a connection to downtown Birmingham, where many specialist clinics and hospitals are located. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, making timely access to healthcare challenging.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. The BJCTA strives to provide accessible services, but the reliability of these features and the overall convenience of bus travel for those with mobility limitations can vary. This is a key consideration for anyone moving to Birmingham.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to public transit. These services can be particularly useful for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive, especially during times of limited public transit availability.

The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. However, they generally provide a more direct route to healthcare facilities compared to public transit. This is a significant advantage for residents of 35213 seeking convenient healthcare access.

Medical transport services, like those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide a crucial service for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves.

The availability and cost of NEMT services can vary. However, they offer a vital link to healthcare for those who cannot use other transportation options. Researching the specific providers available in the area is essential for residents of 35213.

**Healthcare Access: A Score and Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 35213 is moderate. While driving offers a relatively direct route to many healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and distance can significantly impact commute times. Public transit provides a limited and often inconvenient alternative. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer valuable solutions, but their availability and cost must be considered.

When considering moving to Birmingham, potential residents of 35213 should carefully assess their individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Factors to consider include the location of their preferred healthcare providers, their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their budget for ride-sharing or medical transport.

**Specific Recommendations**

* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify the location of hospitals, clinics, and specialists relevant to your healthcare needs.
* **Assess Commute Times:** Use online mapping tools to estimate drive times from your potential residence in 35213 to your chosen healthcare providers, accounting for peak traffic hours.
* **Explore Public Transit Options:** Investigate the bus routes serving your area and their frequency, especially during the times you would need to travel for appointments.
* **Evaluate Ride-Sharing Costs:** Research the typical cost of Uber and Lyft rides to your healthcare providers.
* **Investigate Medical Transport:** If you require assistance with transportation, research NEMT providers in the area and their service offerings.
* **Consider Proximity:** When choosing a residence, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities and major roadways to optimize healthcare access.

**Conclusion**

The "Overall Health Score" for 35213 highlights the importance of careful planning when considering healthcare access. While Birmingham offers a range of healthcare options, the transportation infrastructure presents both challenges and opportunities. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, residents of 35213 can ensure they have access to the healthcare they need. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Birmingham.