35481, Reform, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35481, Reform, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.31 percent of residents in 35481 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 38.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35481 (Reform, Alabama)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. In Reform, Alabama, specifically within ZIP code 35481, this access is largely dictated by the available **transportation** options. This write-up provides an **Overall Health Score**, evaluating the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, impacting their well-being and quality of life. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking medical care in this rural setting.

The primary consideration is the distance and time required to reach healthcare providers. Reform, a small town, presents a unique set of circumstances. The nearest significant healthcare hubs are located in larger towns, requiring residents to navigate significant distances.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The primary roadways serving 35481 are US-82, which runs east-west, and AL-17, which runs north-south. These highways are crucial for reaching medical facilities in nearby towns. For example, a drive to the DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, a major healthcare provider, is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey typically involves traveling east on US-82.

Reaching medical clinics in Carrollton, the county seat, is a shorter drive, around 20-30 minutes, primarily via AL-17. These drive times, while manageable for many, pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, chronic illnesses, or those lacking reliable transportation. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in 35481 are extremely limited. The availability of buses or other public transportation is scarce, severely restricting healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The lack of a robust public transit system is a significant barrier, particularly for the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities. Any potential routes would need to consider the ADA accessibility of the vehicles and stops.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available, but their presence in Reform is often sporadic and limited. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This unreliability makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, the cost of medical transport can be a significant burden, especially for those with limited financial resources. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, but their reach and availability in 35481 should be carefully investigated.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The **Overall Health Score** for **healthcare access** in 35481 is moderately low. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the primary mode of **transportation** – the personal vehicle – presents challenges. The long drive times to major medical centers, the lack of public transit, and the limited availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers.

The health of the community in Reform is therefore partially dependent on the ability to navigate these **transportation** hurdles. Individuals with chronic conditions, disabilities, or limited financial resources are disproportionately affected. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach.

**Recommendations and Opportunities:**

Improving healthcare access in 35481 requires a focus on several key areas. First, exploring the feasibility of expanding public transit options, even on a limited basis, could significantly improve access for vulnerable populations. This could involve partnering with neighboring counties or municipalities to create a more interconnected transit network.

Second, advocating for increased availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial. This could involve offering subsidies or incentives to encourage these services to operate more consistently in the area.

Third, promoting community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs or carpooling arrangements, could provide additional **transportation** support. These programs can be particularly helpful for those needing assistance with routine medical appointments.

Fourth, supporting telehealth initiatives and expanding the availability of telemedicine services can bring healthcare directly to residents, reducing the need for travel. This is especially important for follow-up appointments and consultations that do not require a physical examination.

Finally, focusing on preventative care and health education within the community can help reduce the need for frequent medical visits. This could involve partnering with local healthcare providers to offer health screenings, vaccinations, and educational programs.

**Moving to Reform** or considering a move to a similar rural area necessitates a careful evaluation of healthcare access. The **Overall Health Score** is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to the well-being of its residents. By addressing the **transportation** challenges and implementing the recommendations outlined above, Reform can enhance its **healthcare access** and improve the **Overall Health Score** for its residents.