35441, Akron, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35441, Akron, Alabama is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.04 percent of residents in 35441 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35441

The health and well-being of residents in ZIP Code 35441, a region encompassing parts of Akron, Alabama, are intrinsically linked to their ability to access healthcare. Understanding the ease or difficulty of this access is paramount to assessing the overall health of the community. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the intricacies of transportation options available, offering a comprehensive view of the commute to healthcare facilities, considering factors such as drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation services. This analysis is crucial for anyone **moving to Akron**, as healthcare access is a fundamental element in choosing a new home.

The primary challenge for residents in 35441 lies in its somewhat rural setting. While Akron itself is a small town, the nearest major medical facilities are located in surrounding areas, primarily in Tuscaloosa, presenting a geographical barrier to timely healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, making **transportation** a critical determinant of health outcomes.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most direct route to Tuscaloosa from Akron typically involves navigating Alabama Highway 69. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially increasing travel times and impacting healthcare access, especially in emergencies. The drive to DCH Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital in Tuscaloosa, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic flow. Other healthcare providers, such as specialized clinics or outpatient facilities, may be located further afield, extending drive times significantly. Residents may also utilize US Highway 82, offering an alternative route, but this can add to the overall travel distance.

The condition of local roads, including county roads and smaller thoroughfares, is also a factor. Potholes, inadequate lighting, and limited shoulder space can pose safety risks, particularly for those with mobility issues or during inclement weather. These challenges highlight the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and careful driving practices.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options within 35441 are limited. The Tuscaloosa Area Rapid Transit System (TAR) provides some service, but its routes and frequency may not adequately serve the needs of all residents in the Akron area. The primary bus routes serving Tuscaloosa do not extend into the 35441 ZIP code. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income families.

The availability of ADA-accessible features on any public transit that might serve the area is also a critical consideration. Information on the accessibility of TAR buses, if any route extensions were to be added to the area, is essential for ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents. The absence of convenient and accessible public transit exacerbates existing health disparities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Tuscaloosa area and may offer a viable **transportation** alternative for some residents of 35441. However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers in the Akron area may also be limited, potentially leading to longer wait times and impacting the timeliness of healthcare access.

Specialized medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are another option, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments and may be covered by certain insurance plans. The availability and cost of NEMT services in the 35441 area should be investigated to determine their effectiveness in improving **healthcare access**.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the Tuscaloosa area, offering a range of services. These include, but are not limited to, companies specializing in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, stretcher transport, and ambulatory services. The specific brands and their service areas should be researched to determine their coverage in the 35441 ZIP code.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 35441 is moderately concerning. While residents have access to healthcare facilities in Tuscaloosa, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** create significant challenges. The lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, impacting health outcomes.

The drive times, while manageable for some, can be extended by traffic congestion or adverse weather conditions. The limited availability of public transit, coupled with the potential cost of ride-sharing services, disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. The effectiveness of medical transport services needs to be assessed to determine their impact on improving healthcare access.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance **healthcare access** in 35441, several interventions are recommended. First, advocating for expanded public **transportation** services, including the extension of existing bus routes or the implementation of demand-response **transportation** options, is crucial. This would provide a more affordable and accessible **transportation** alternative for residents without personal vehicles.

Second, promoting ride-sharing programs and exploring partnerships with local healthcare providers to subsidize ride-sharing costs for low-income individuals could improve access. Third, educating residents about available medical transport services and assisting them in navigating the enrollment process would be beneficial.

Fourth, improving the condition of local roads and ensuring adequate lighting and safety features would enhance the safety of all travelers. Fifth, supporting initiatives that promote telehealth services and remote patient monitoring could reduce the need for frequent in-person appointments.

Finally, raising awareness about the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices is crucial for all residents. These combined efforts can significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" and ensure that residents of 35441 have timely and equitable access to the healthcare they need. For those **moving to Akron**, understanding these factors is crucial in assessing the community's overall health and its ability to support their well-being.