35490, Vance, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35490, Vance, Alabama is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.10 percent of residents in 35490 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical West, An Affiliate Of Uab Health System with a distance of 15.12 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Vance, Alabama (ZIP Code 35490)

Vance, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Tuscaloosa County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and burgeoning industrial growth. Understanding the accessibility of healthcare services is paramount for residents, especially those considering moving to Vance. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 35490, provides an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can access medical care, considering transportation options and their associated challenges.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single numerical value, but rather a holistic assessment considering various factors. These include drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and efficacy of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of specialized medical transport. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for Vance residents.

The primary arteries facilitating movement in and out of Vance are Interstate 20/59 (I-20/59) and Alabama State Route 219. I-20/59 offers the most direct route to major healthcare hubs in Tuscaloosa, such as DCH Regional Medical Center, and provides access to Birmingham to the east. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. State Route 219 serves as a vital local connector, offering access to nearby towns and medical clinics.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. A trip to DCH Regional Medical Center, the closest major hospital, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes via I-20/59, assuming moderate traffic. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or longer. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities located closer to Vance, along Highway 219, offer quicker access, often reachable within 10 to 15 minutes.

Public transportation options in Vance are limited. The Tuscaloosa Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides bus services within Tuscaloosa County, but routes directly serving Vance are infrequent. Currently, there are no established TARTA routes that specifically service Vance. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for residents without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. TARTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features, but the limited service area and frequency pose challenges. Residents requiring accessible transportation may face difficulties in reaching medical appointments, potentially impacting their overall health outcomes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Tuscaloosa area, including Vance. However, their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Reliance on ride-sharing can also be expensive, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access. The cost of a ride to DCH Regional Medical Center could range from $25 to $40, depending on demand and time of day.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare-related travel. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and often require prior arrangements. The availability of these services, while crucial for certain populations, adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The presence of specialized medical transport is a crucial aspect of healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring specialized care. Companies like AMR and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare-related travel. However, these services are often more expensive than ride-sharing and require prior arrangements, adding complexity to the process.

For those moving to Vance, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. The dependence on personal vehicles is high, and the lack of robust public transportation options necessitates careful planning. Individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle face significant challenges in accessing healthcare.

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Vance, Alabama, is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While access to major healthcare facilities in Tuscaloosa is possible via I-20/59, the lack of consistent public transportation, the cost and availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers for some residents.

The potential for increased industrial growth in Vance could lead to infrastructure improvements, including expanded public transportation options. However, in the current environment, residents must carefully consider their transportation needs when evaluating their healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" could be improved by initiatives that enhance public transportation, promote ride-sharing partnerships, and support the availability of affordable medical transport services.

Overall, the health of Vance residents is inextricably linked to their ability to access healthcare. Addressing the transportation challenges, through strategic investments in infrastructure and services, is crucial to ensuring equitable healthcare access and improving the overall well-being of the community.