35406, Tuscaloosa, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35406, Tuscaloosa, Alabama is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.58 percent of residents in 35406 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary S Harper Geriatric Psychiatry Center with a distance of 3.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35406

The health and well-being of residents in Tuscaloosa's 35406 ZIP code are intricately linked to their ability to access healthcare. This report delves into the complexities of transportation options within this area, evaluating their impact on overall health. We will assess drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' based on the ease and efficiency of healthcare access. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Tuscaloosa, as it offers insights into the practical realities of navigating the city's healthcare landscape.

The 35406 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Tuscaloosa, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the city boasts a relatively compact layout, the reliance on personal vehicles is substantial. This dependence, combined with varying levels of public transit infrastructure, creates a diverse healthcare access scenario. Evaluating these factors is critical to understanding the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in 35406 are Interstate 20/59 (I-20/59), US Highway 82, and McFarland Boulevard. These thoroughfares connect residents to major healthcare facilities, including DCH Regional Medical Center, Northport Medical Center, and various specialty clinics. Drive times, however, can fluctuate significantly based on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours.

Traveling from the eastern parts of 35406, closer to I-20/59, to DCH Regional Medical Center, located near downtown, typically takes 10-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or more during rush hour. Similar travel times apply to Northport Medical Center, located further west. The journey along McFarland Boulevard, while often less congested than I-20/59, can still experience delays, especially near major intersections.

Residents relying on US Highway 82, especially those living south of the highway, may face longer travel times, particularly if traveling to facilities north of the highway. The road’s two-lane configuration in some areas can contribute to delays. These variations in drive times significantly impact the overall health score, as longer commutes can deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Tuscaloosa Area Rapid Transit System (TART) provides public transportation within the city. Several TART routes serve the 35406 ZIP code, offering varying degrees of access to healthcare facilities. Route 1, for example, travels along McFarland Boulevard, providing access to several medical offices and clinics. Route 4 serves the downtown area and connects to DCH Regional Medical Center.

However, the frequency of TART buses can be a limiting factor. Headways, or the time between buses, can be relatively long, particularly during evenings and weekends. This can significantly impact the convenience of using public transit for healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the geographic coverage of TART is not comprehensive, leaving some areas within 35406 with limited or no access to public transit.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. TART strives to provide accessible services, with all buses equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the overall reliance on walking to and from bus stops, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, can pose a challenge. The health score is negatively impacted by the limited route options, infrequent service, and the potential for lengthy travel times, especially for those requiring ADA accommodations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Tuscaloosa, offering an alternative transportation option. These services can be particularly useful for individuals without personal vehicles or those needing a more direct route to healthcare facilities. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can fluctuate, especially during peak demand or in less populated areas of the 35406 ZIP code.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transportation providers, cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services offer a crucial lifeline for those unable to travel independently. However, these services often come with a higher cost, and their availability can be subject to scheduling and insurance coverage.

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

The overall health score for healthcare access in 35406 is moderate. While the presence of major healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion, creates a challenge. The limited availability and frequency of public transit, along with the variable cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, further impact the score.

The score is influenced by the following factors: drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options. The score is also impacted by the economic status of the residents of 35406. Those with lower incomes may find it harder to afford ride-sharing or medical transport services. This disparity further exacerbates the challenges in accessing healthcare.

**Moving to Tuscaloosa: Considerations for 35406:**

For individuals considering moving to Tuscaloosa and specifically to the 35406 ZIP code, understanding these transportation and healthcare access dynamics is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the proximity of their chosen residence to TART routes and the frequency of service. Individuals without personal vehicles should factor in the cost and availability of ride-sharing services.

The proximity to major healthcare facilities, such as DCH Regional Medical Center, is a significant advantage. However, residents should be prepared for potential traffic delays and consider alternative transportation options, especially during peak hours. The overall health score underscores the importance of proactive planning and consideration of transportation needs when making decisions about healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 35406 is a complex calculation. It highlights the importance of transportation infrastructure and its impact on the well-being of residents. While the presence of healthcare facilities is a positive factor, the limitations of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges. This report provides a valuable framework for understanding the healthcare access landscape in 35406, empowering residents and prospective movers to make informed decisions about their health and transportation needs. Continuous improvements in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing options, and the availability of affordable medical transport are crucial for improving the overall health score and ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents of the 35406 ZIP code.