35249, Birmingham, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35249, Birmingham, Alabama is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 35249 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Birmingham with a distance of 0.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35249

Considering a move to Birmingham, Alabama, and specifically the 35249 ZIP code? Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is crucial for overall well-being. This report assesses the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access within this area, focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities. We'll analyze drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview to inform your decision.

The 35249 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Inverness and Greystone, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access due to its suburban nature. While offering a high quality of life, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant, impacting the overall health score. The geography, with its rolling hills and dispersed population, influences transportation choices and, consequently, healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in 35249 is the personal vehicle. This necessitates a detailed examination of drive times to various healthcare providers. Major thoroughfares impacting commute times include U.S. Highway 280, a vital east-west artery, and Interstate 459, providing north-south connectivity. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, is a significant factor, especially along Highway 280.

Drive times to major hospitals like Grandview Medical Center, located near the intersection of Highway 280 and I-459, can range from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. St. Vincent's East, another significant healthcare provider, is accessible via I-459 and U.S. Highway 11, with drive times varying between 20 and 35 minutes. Smaller clinics and specialist offices within the ZIP code, such as those along Cahaba Park Circle, offer quicker access, often within a 5-10 minute drive.

The presence of numerous roundabouts and signalized intersections along Highway 280 can sometimes exacerbate traffic delays. The condition of the roads and the prevalence of construction projects also contribute to fluctuating commute times. Careful consideration of these factors is vital when assessing the overall health score.

**Public Transit Accessibility:**

Public transit options in 35249 are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, operates bus routes in the area. However, coverage within the ZIP code is sparse, primarily concentrated along Highway 280.

Route 14, the most relevant route for 35249 residents, travels along Highway 280, connecting to downtown Birmingham and various medical facilities along the way. Frequency is generally every 30-60 minutes during peak hours and less frequently during off-peak times. The lack of extensive route coverage within the ZIP code necessitates significant walking distances for many residents to reach bus stops.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. BJCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate riders with disabilities. However, the limited route network and the potential for long walking distances to bus stops can still create accessibility barriers. The overall impact on the health score is negative, as public transit does not offer a viable solution for many residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to public transit. Availability in 35249 is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, provide a crucial service. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically involve scheduled rides to and from medical appointments, with vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The cost of NEMT can be substantial, and availability may require advance booking. This is a vital element in the overall health score for those with limited mobility.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 35249 is moderate. While the area offers a high quality of life and access to quality healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit significantly impact accessibility.

The primary challenge lies in the dependence on personal vehicles, leading to potentially lengthy commute times, especially during peak hours. The limited public transit options and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services further exacerbate the issue.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, the availability and cost of medical transport services are critical. Careful consideration of these factors is essential when assessing the overall health score and making decisions about moving to Birmingham.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a home, consider the proximity to healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals.
* **Factor in commute times:** Account for traffic congestion when estimating drive times to medical appointments.
* **Explore ride-sharing options:** Utilize ride-sharing services as a backup transportation option, but be mindful of the cost.
* **Investigate medical transport:** If mobility is a concern, research and budget for medical transport services.
* **Advocate for improved transit:** Support initiatives to expand public transit coverage in the area, improving healthcare access for all residents.

By carefully considering these factors and recommendations, potential residents can make informed decisions about healthcare access and contribute to a healthier lifestyle in the 35249 ZIP code. The overall health score can be improved with proactive planning and awareness of the available transportation options. Understanding the nuances of transportation and healthcare access is vital when moving to Birmingham.