35474, Moundville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35474, Moundville, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.51 percent of residents in 35474 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary S Harper Geriatric Psychiatry Center with a distance of 16.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35474 (Moundville, Alabama)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 35474, focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access through transportation. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is paramount to evaluating the well-being of a community. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, providing a comprehensive view of the healthcare accessibility landscape in Moundville, Alabama. For those considering moving to Moundville, this is a crucial factor.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Moundville stems from its rural location. The town is nestled within a landscape characterized by rolling hills and agricultural lands, creating geographical limitations on transportation infrastructure. The nearest significant healthcare hubs, including hospitals, specialized clinics, and comprehensive medical centers, are primarily located in Tuscaloosa, approximately 20 miles to the north. This distance, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, weather conditions, and the availability of reliable transportation.

For residents with personal vehicles, the primary route to Tuscaloosa involves navigating US Highway 82 East. This two-lane highway serves as the main artery connecting Moundville to the larger city. The drive typically takes between 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic flow and the time of day. Road conditions are generally well-maintained, but the potential for delays exists, particularly during peak commuting hours or in the event of accidents. Secondary routes, such as County Road 21 and County Road 52, offer alternative paths, but these are primarily local roads and may be less direct or subject to rougher conditions.

Public transportation options are limited in Moundville. The Tuscaloosa Area Rapid Transit System (TART) provides some service to the area, but the frequency and coverage are restricted. Route 12, which runs between Tuscaloosa and Moundville, is the primary public transit option. However, the service operates on a limited schedule, typically with hourly departures during weekdays and reduced service on weekends. Furthermore, the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, necessitating transfers or additional walking. While TART buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, the limited service frequency and route coverage can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Tuscaloosa area and can be accessed in Moundville. However, their availability is variable, and wait times can be extended, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially making it an expensive option for regular medical appointments. For residents needing specialized medical transport, options are even more limited.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the Tuscaloosa area. Companies like AMR and others offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the patient's insurance coverage.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35474 is moderately concerning. While residents with personal vehicles have reasonable access to medical facilities in Tuscaloosa, those relying on public transportation, ride-sharing, or medical transport face significant hurdles. The limited frequency of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potential cost of medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to a personal vehicle. The absence of a local urgent care facility or primary care physician further exacerbates the issue.

The lack of robust transportation infrastructure also impacts the timely access to emergency medical services. In the event of a medical emergency, the response time of emergency vehicles is critical. The distance to the nearest hospital in Tuscaloosa, combined with potential traffic delays, can compromise the speed of care. This is a key consideration for anyone moving to Moundville.

Improving healthcare access in Moundville requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, including increased frequency and route coverage, is crucial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Investing in the development of telehealth services, allowing residents to access medical consultations and monitoring remotely, could mitigate the transportation challenges.

Furthermore, attracting healthcare providers to establish clinics or practices within Moundville would significantly improve access to primary and preventative care. This could involve providing incentives for healthcare professionals to locate in the area or supporting the development of community health centers.

The development of a comprehensive healthcare access plan should also consider the specific needs of vulnerable populations. This includes providing targeted transportation assistance to the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. Ensuring that all transportation options are ADA-compliant is also essential.

In conclusion, while residents of Moundville have some options for accessing healthcare, the limitations of transportation infrastructure present a significant challenge. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations. By investing in improved transportation options, expanding healthcare services, and supporting telehealth initiatives, Moundville can improve the overall health score for its residents and create a healthier community. The importance of healthcare access should be a primary consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Moundville.