35464, Gainesville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35464, Gainesville, Alabama is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.54 percent of residents in 35464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 16.44 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35464

The health and well-being of residents in ZIP Code 35464, a region encompassing parts of Gordo, Alabama, are intricately linked to their ability to access healthcare services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" considering transportation infrastructure, travel times, and the availability of various transport modes to reach medical facilities. Understanding these factors is crucial for prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Gainesville, and for current inhabitants seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

The primary challenge in ZIP Code 35464 is its rural character, which often translates to limited public transportation options and longer travel distances to specialized medical care. The "Overall Health Score" reflects this reality, emphasizing the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential barriers faced by individuals without reliable transportation.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Foundation of Access**

The lifeblood of transportation in 35464 is the network of highways and local roads. U.S. Highway 82 serves as a major artery, connecting Gordo to larger towns like Tuscaloosa and Columbus, Mississippi. Driving to the nearest hospital, DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, typically involves a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP Code. This journey primarily utilizes Highway 82 and then transitions onto Interstate 20/59.

Smaller roads, such as County Road 47 and County Road 14, provide access to local clinics and physician's offices, but these facilities often offer limited services. These roads, while offering closer proximity, may not be suitable for accessing specialized care. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can also impact travel times and accessibility.

The drive times, while manageable for routine appointments, become a significant concern during medical emergencies. The time spent traveling to a hospital can be critical, especially for conditions requiring immediate attention. This underscores the importance of understanding the available transportation options and planning accordingly.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Role**

Public transportation options in 35464 are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the ZIP Code or directly connecting it to major healthcare providers. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals who do not own vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

The absence of public transit creates a barrier to healthcare access, especially for those with limited financial resources or mobility challenges. The lack of accessible transportation options also impacts those considering moving to Gainesville, as it limits their ability to access healthcare facilities in surrounding areas.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Tuscaloosa area, but their presence in 35464 is less consistent. The availability of these services can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. This unreliability makes them a less-than-ideal solution for routine medical appointments or urgent care needs.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available for those who need them. These services are critical for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical assistance during transport. However, these services often come with significant costs, and their availability can be subject to scheduling constraints.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Overall Health Score" for 35464 is influenced by the combined impact of transportation limitations and the availability of healthcare services. While the area may have local clinics and physician's offices, access to specialized care often requires travel to Tuscaloosa or other regional centers. This creates a situation where healthcare access is dependent on reliable transportation, which is often a significant challenge for many residents.

The distance to hospitals, the limited public transportation options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the challenges of healthcare access. This underscores the importance of proactive planning, including understanding the available transportation options and having a plan for medical emergencies.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial aspect of healthcare access. While the roads themselves are generally accessible, the lack of public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

It is essential to consider the accessibility of healthcare facilities, including ramps, elevators, and accessible parking. Furthermore, the availability of NEMT services with ADA-compliant vehicles is crucial for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the care they need.

**Moving to Gainesville: A Transportation Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Gainesville and the surrounding areas, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The "Overall Health Score" highlights the importance of assessing the availability of reliable transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

Prospective residents should also research the proximity of healthcare facilities and the potential travel times. This information will help them make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure that they can receive the care they need.

**Conclusion: Enhancing the Health Score**

The "Overall Health Score" for 35464 is significantly impacted by transportation limitations. The rural nature of the area, the lack of public transportation, and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers to healthcare access for many residents.

Improving the "Overall Health Score" requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes exploring options for expanding public transportation, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport options. Furthermore, promoting the development of telehealth services can help reduce the need for travel and improve healthcare access for all residents.

By addressing these challenges, the community can enhance healthcare access, improve the health and well-being of its residents, and make 35464 a more attractive place to live. Understanding the interplay between transportation and healthcare access is the first step toward building a healthier and more accessible community.