35491, West Greene, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35491, West Greene, Alabama is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 35491 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 12.80 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35491

West Greene, Alabama, nestled in the heart of the Black Belt, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to overall health. This write-up, specifically focusing on ZIP Code 35491, aims to assess the accessibility of healthcare services, factoring in the critical element of transportation. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of the health landscape for potential residents. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to West Greene**, seeking to understand their **healthcare access** options.

The **transportation** infrastructure in and around 35491 is predominantly reliant on personal vehicles. The primary roadways include US Highway 80, a major east-west artery, and Alabama State Route 14, which runs north-south. Navigating these roads, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times to healthcare facilities. Residents must also consider the condition of these roads, which can vary, especially after inclement weather, potentially hindering access to urgent care.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in determining the overall health score. The nearest hospitals and clinics, such as Greene County Hospital in Eutaw, are accessible via US-80. The drive to Eutaw, approximately 15 miles, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to Tuscaloosa, a city offering a wider range of medical services. The journey to Tuscaloosa, via US-80 and then Interstate 20/59, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier to timely healthcare, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring emergency care.

Public transportation options are limited in 35491. The availability of public transit is a crucial component of **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Greene County Transit System provides some bus services, but the routes and schedules are limited. Information regarding specific route numbers and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is not readily available online, which underscores the need for further investigation to confirm the availability and suitability of these services for individuals with mobility limitations. The limited scope of public transit presents a significant challenge for residents who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Tuscaloosa, but their presence in 35491 is less consistent. The availability and reliability of these services can vary significantly, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. This lack of consistent ride-sharing options further exacerbates the transportation challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available, but their availability and cost need careful consideration. These services, often provided by companies like Medical Transport Services or First Medical Transport, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. While these services can be invaluable for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options, they often require pre-booking and may have associated costs that need to be factored into the overall healthcare budget.

The lack of readily available information about specific medical transport brands and their coverage areas highlights the need for more readily accessible resources for residents. The absence of clear information about ADA-compliant public transit options and the limited availability of ride-sharing services further emphasize the transportation challenges.

The overall health score for 35491 is negatively impacted by the transportation limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the extended drive times to specialized care, and the limited public transit and ride-sharing options create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. Individuals **moving to West Greene** must carefully consider these factors and proactively plan for their healthcare needs.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code itself is limited. Residents must rely on facilities in neighboring towns and cities, further increasing the importance of reliable transportation. The distance to healthcare providers, combined with the challenges of navigating the existing transportation infrastructure, can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting health outcomes.

The accessibility of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, and mental health services, is also a concern. Residents often need to travel to Tuscaloosa or even further afield to access these specialized services. This extended travel time and the associated costs can be a significant burden, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring ongoing treatment.

The affordability of healthcare is another critical factor. The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services, adds to the overall cost of healthcare. This can be a significant financial burden for residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

The availability of preventative care services, such as routine check-ups and screenings, is also important. The ability to access these services in a timely and convenient manner can help to prevent serious health problems and improve overall health outcomes. The transportation challenges in 35491 can make it more difficult for residents to access preventative care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

The healthcare infrastructure in 35491 requires continuous improvement to address the transportation challenges. Increased investment in public transportation, including expanding routes and improving accessibility, is essential. Promoting ride-sharing services and providing subsidies for medical transportation can also help to improve **healthcare access**.

Community initiatives, such as carpooling programs or volunteer driver services, can also play a role in improving transportation options. Educating residents about available healthcare resources and providing assistance with transportation arrangements can also help to overcome the challenges.

The overall health score for 35491 is a complex assessment, influenced by a multitude of factors. While the community may offer a tranquil lifestyle, the limited transportation options pose a significant challenge to **healthcare access**. Individuals considering **moving to West Greene** must carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and proactively plan for their transportation requirements. The development of effective and accessible transportation solutions is essential to improve the overall health and well-being of the residents of 35491.