35487, Tuscaloosa, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35487, Tuscaloosa, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 35487 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 32.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35487

ZIP Code 35487, encompassing Northport, Alabama, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly concerning access to healthcare. A crucial element in this assessment is the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This write-up will delve into the available modes of transportation, their associated drive times, and their impact on the overall health score of residents in this area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding for potential residents considering moving to Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas, highlighting the complexities of healthcare access in this specific locale.

The primary mode of transportation in Northport is the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the commute to essential healthcare services. Residents rely heavily on major thoroughfares such as US Highway 82, also known as McFarland Boulevard, and US Highway 43. These highways, along with local roads like Rice Mine Road and Watermelon Road, serve as the arteries for accessing hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical practices. Drive times are significantly influenced by traffic, particularly during peak hours and near the University of Alabama campus.

For those seeking specialized care, the University of Alabama Medical Center, located in Tuscaloosa, is a major destination. The drive to this facility from Northport, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions, can range from 15 to 30 minutes. Other healthcare options, such as DCH Regional Medical Center, are also accessible via these highways, often requiring a similar commute. The convenience of these routes is a significant factor in the overall health score, as it directly impacts the ability to receive timely medical attention.

Public transportation options in Northport, while available, present limitations. The Tuscaloosa Area Rapid Transit System (TAR) operates several bus routes that serve the area. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may be limited. Route 1, for example, runs along McFarland Boulevard, offering a potential connection to medical facilities. Route 4 provides access to the downtown area and the DCH Regional Medical Center. While these routes offer a viable alternative for those without personal vehicles, the extended travel times and potential for transfers can pose challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transportation for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. TAR buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall infrastructure may still present challenges. The reliability of public transit and the potential for delays can also impact the overall health score, particularly for those needing regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Northport and Tuscaloosa area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, and the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours, may be limited. The reliability of these services is also a factor, as delays or cancellations can impact access to healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance, are another option. These services often provide transportation to and from medical appointments, as well as assistance with medical equipment. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may require advance booking. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or rely on public transportation.

The overall health score in ZIP Code 35487 is intricately linked to the accessibility of healthcare, which is heavily influenced by transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to the complex equation. Residents considering moving to Tuscaloosa must carefully evaluate these factors to determine if the available transportation options meet their individual healthcare needs.

The drive times to medical facilities, influenced by traffic on highways like US 82 and US 43, directly impact the ability to receive timely medical care. The efficiency of the road network is paramount. The reliability of public transit, with its ADA features, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all play a crucial role in determining the overall health score.

The convenience of the road network, with its connections to major medical centers, is a significant advantage for residents who can drive. However, the limitations of public transit, particularly for those with mobility issues or those living outside the immediate vicinity of bus routes, can create challenges. The cost and availability of ride-sharing services, as well as the specialized nature of medical transportation, also influence the overall health score.

The overall health score in ZIP Code 35487 is a dynamic measure, influenced by the interplay of various transportation options and their ability to connect residents with essential healthcare services. The availability of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential benefits of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to the complexity of healthcare access in this area. Prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Tuscaloosa, should carefully evaluate these factors to determine if the available transportation options align with their individual healthcare needs and preferences.