35443, Boligee, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35443, Boligee, Alabama is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.95 percent of residents in 35443 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 9.22 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35443 (Boligee, Alabama)

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when considering a move to a new area, especially for those prioritizing their overall well-being. This report assesses the ease of accessing medical services for residents of ZIP Code 35443, Boligee, Alabama, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We’ll analyze drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape for potential residents.

The primary challenge for residents of Boligee lies in its rural location. This translates to longer travel times for healthcare appointments, which can significantly impact health outcomes, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. The success of any move to Boligee hinges on understanding and planning for these transportation hurdles.

**Driving Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The most common mode of transportation in Boligee is personal vehicles. The primary roadways serving the area include **US Highway 80**, a major east-west artery, and **Alabama Highway 14**, which provides north-south access. Traveling to the nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities necessitates navigating these routes.

For instance, the drive to **Whitfield Regional Hospital** in Demopolis, approximately 25 miles east, typically takes around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey primarily involves traveling east on US-80. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and various specialty clinics.

Alternatively, residents might consider traveling to **DCH Regional Medical Center** in Tuscaloosa, a larger facility offering more specialized care. This trip, covering roughly 65 miles, would necessitate traveling east on US-80 to Greensboro and then north on **Alabama Highway 60**. The drive time averages 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, presenting a significant time commitment.

Road conditions, particularly after inclement weather, can further extend travel times. Residents should factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments and consider the availability of emergency services.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Boligee are limited. The availability of bus routes and services is sparse, significantly impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. This lack of public transit presents a considerable barrier to healthcare access, particularly for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

There are no readily available public bus routes or services that specifically serve Boligee. This absence necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or specialized medical transport. The lack of public transportation is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Boligee and prioritizing healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Tuscaloosa area and may be accessible in Boligee, but their availability and response times can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Specialized medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance with transportation. Companies like **CareRide** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** may provide services in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. However, these services can be expensive and may require pre-booking, limiting spontaneity.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transportation and in healthcare facilities. However, the lack of public transit in Boligee severely limits ADA-compliant transportation options. Residents with disabilities must rely on accessible vehicles, ride-sharing services, or specialized medical transport, which may not always be readily available or affordable.

Healthcare facilities, such as Whitfield Regional Hospital and DCH Regional Medical Center, are generally ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for patients with disabilities. However, the journey to these facilities remains a significant challenge for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Boligee, ZIP Code 35443, is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. Residents face longer travel times to access medical services, increasing the risk of delayed care and potentially impacting health outcomes.

The lack of public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for delays due to road conditions all contribute to the challenges of accessing healthcare. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some alternatives, but their cost and availability remain significant considerations.

When moving to Boligee, it is crucial to assess your healthcare needs and carefully consider the transportation challenges. Planning for appointments, exploring alternative transportation options, and understanding the potential for delays are essential steps in ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

* **Assess Healthcare Needs:** Evaluate your current and potential future healthcare needs, including the frequency of appointments and the need for specialized care.
* **Plan Transportation:** Develop a detailed transportation plan, considering drive times, ride-sharing availability, and the potential need for medical transport services.
* **Explore Healthcare Options:** Research the availability of healthcare providers in the area, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities.
* **Consider Proximity:** If healthcare access is a top priority, consider the proximity of healthcare facilities when choosing a residence.
* **Factor in Costs:** Budget for transportation costs, including fuel, ride-sharing fees, and potential medical transport expenses.

The decision to move to Boligee should be informed by a realistic understanding of the healthcare landscape. By carefully considering the transportation challenges and planning accordingly, residents can mitigate the impact of limited healthcare access and prioritize their overall well-being. The success of your move and your ability to access healthcare are inextricably linked.