35460, Epes, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35460, Epes, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.85 percent of residents in 35460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hill Hospital Of Sumter County with a distance of 16.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35460 (Epes, Alabama)

The quaint community of Epes, Alabama, nestled in Sumter County, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. A crucial element influencing well-being is healthcare access, intricately woven with transportation options. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 35460, meticulously examining the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the healthcare system. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access.

The primary factor shaping healthcare access in Epes is the distance to medical facilities. The nearest hospitals and specialty clinics are often located in Demopolis, approximately a 30-to-45-minute drive away, or Livingston, about a 20-to-30-minute drive. The most direct route to Demopolis typically involves taking **Highway 80** east. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased traffic during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. Alternatively, for those heading to Livingston, **Highway 11** provides a more direct route.

However, these drive times are only part of the story. Factors like traffic, weather conditions, and individual mobility limitations significantly influence the actual experience of traveling for healthcare. Residents without reliable personal transportation face a more significant hurdle.

Public transit options in Sumter County are limited. The local public transit system, if available, may not offer routes that directly serve Epes or provide frequent service to medical facilities. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA-compliant features is often difficult to find, posing a significant barrier for those who rely on public transportation.

The absence of robust public transit makes ride-sharing services a potential alternative. While ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft are available in larger cities, their presence in rural areas like Epes is often sporadic and limited. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for those requiring assistance. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) may operate in the area, providing door-to-door service for appointments. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs can vary considerably. These services are often pre-booked, requiring advance planning and coordination.

The impact of these transportation challenges on healthcare access is multifaceted. Extended travel times can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially exacerbating health conditions. The lack of reliable transportation can also deter individuals from seeking preventative care, contributing to poorer health outcomes. The financial burden associated with transportation costs can further strain household budgets, especially for low-income residents.

For individuals considering **moving to Epes**, understanding these transportation challenges is paramount. While the community offers a peaceful and close-knit environment, the realities of healthcare access must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should thoroughly research available transportation options, assess their individual mobility needs, and factor in the potential costs and inconveniences associated with traveling to medical facilities.

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of 35460 is therefore influenced by these factors. The score reflects the accessibility of healthcare, the availability of transportation options, and the potential impact on individual health outcomes. A lower score indicates greater challenges in accessing healthcare, while a higher score reflects improved accessibility.

The current score for Epes, Alabama, would likely be moderate, reflecting the combination of challenges and limited options. The community's remote location, limited public transit, and the potential for unreliable ride-sharing services all contribute to this score. However, the presence of medical transportation services and the proximity to Demopolis and Livingston hospitals offer some mitigation.

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for Epes, several strategies could be implemented. Investing in improved public transportation infrastructure, including expanded routes and increased frequency, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to increase service availability and affordability could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transportation services and providing financial assistance to those who need it would help reduce the financial burden associated with healthcare travel. Encouraging the establishment of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could also help overcome transportation barriers.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for residents of 35460 is a complex metric reflecting the interplay of transportation and healthcare access. While the community offers a unique charm, the challenges associated with traveling to medical facilities must be carefully considered. By addressing these challenges through strategic investments and community initiatives, Epes can improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.