35543, Bear Creek, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35543, Bear Creek, Alabama is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.31 percent of residents in 35543 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lakeland Community Hospital with a distance of 5.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35543

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 35543, focusing on the crucial factor of access to healthcare. Specifically, it examines the transportation landscape, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. Understanding these elements is paramount for anyone considering moving to Bear Creek or currently residing within the area, as they directly impact the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ability to reach medical facilities. In 35543, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare providers are heavily influenced by the road network. Residents often utilize **Highway 278** and **Highway 195**, which serve as the main arteries connecting Bear Creek to larger towns like Double Springs and Haleyville, where many healthcare services are located. Depending on the destination and traffic conditions, a drive to a primary care physician in Haleyville could range from 15 to 30 minutes.

Specialist care, such as cardiology or dermatology, might necessitate a longer journey, potentially to Jasper or even Birmingham. This could involve traveling on **Highway 278** westward, connecting to **Interstate 22** and then to **Interstate 65**, a journey that could take upwards of an hour or more, depending on traffic. These extended travel times can be a significant barrier to care, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in 35543 are extremely limited. The area is primarily rural, and the infrastructure for public transit is underdeveloped. There are no established bus routes serving Bear Creek directly. This lack of public transit significantly disadvantages individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. Without access to a car, healthcare access becomes severely restricted.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and affordability can vary. While these services offer a potential solution, they are often subject to surge pricing, which can make them cost-prohibitive for routine medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in a rural area like 35543 might be limited, leading to longer wait times and potentially missed appointments.

Medical transport services are a critical component of healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or utilize ride-sharing. Ambulance services are available for emergencies, but they are not a practical solution for routine appointments. Specialized medical transport providers, such as private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, may be available, but their cost and availability can vary. These services are essential for patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs that preclude them from driving or using public transit.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a crucial role in ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. While the physical accessibility of healthcare facilities is generally mandated by the ADA, the accessibility of transportation options is often a greater challenge. The lack of accessible public transit, coupled with the potential limitations of ride-sharing services, can create significant barriers for individuals with disabilities seeking healthcare in 35543.

The overall health score for 35543 is significantly impacted by the transportation challenges. The dependence on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower score. This means that residents may face significant difficulties in accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

When considering the health score, it's crucial to consider the specific needs of the population. The elderly population, who may have mobility limitations or chronic health conditions, are particularly vulnerable to transportation barriers. Similarly, low-income residents may struggle to afford the costs of personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond simply getting to appointments. Long travel times can lead to increased stress and fatigue, particularly for patients with chronic conditions. They can also contribute to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and poorer health outcomes. Furthermore, the financial burden of transportation costs can exacerbate existing financial strain, potentially leading to individuals forgoing necessary medical care.

The healthcare landscape in 35543 includes a variety of providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals. However, the ability to access these providers is significantly influenced by transportation factors. The availability of specialists in nearby towns like Haleyville and Jasper is a positive aspect, but the travel times can be a deterrent.

The quality of healthcare facilities is another factor to consider. The presence of well-equipped hospitals and clinics in the surrounding areas is a positive sign. However, the quality of care is only as good as the ability of residents to access it. If transportation barriers prevent individuals from seeking necessary medical attention, the quality of care becomes irrelevant.

The overall health score for 35543 is directly related to the community's ability to address these transportation challenges. Investing in public transit, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport are crucial steps toward improving healthcare access. Furthermore, promoting community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, can help bridge the transportation gap.

The economic impact of transportation challenges should also be considered. Missed workdays due to medical appointments and the cost of transportation can place a financial strain on individuals and families. Addressing these issues can lead to improved economic outcomes for the community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 35543 is negatively impacted by the transportation challenges. While the area may have access to healthcare providers, the ability to reach these providers is limited by the lack of public transit, the dependence on personal vehicles, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Addressing these issues through investments in transportation infrastructure, community-based initiatives, and affordable healthcare options is crucial for improving the overall health and well-being of the residents of Bear Creek. The ability to move to Bear Creek and have consistent access to healthcare is a crucial factor in the overall health score.