35549, Carbon Hill, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35549, Carbon Hill, Alabama is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.36 percent of residents in 35549 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Walker Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 13.95 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Carbon Hill, Alabama (ZIP Code 35549)

Carbon Hill, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Walker County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, attracting those seeking respite from the urban clamor. However, the allure of small-town living must be weighed against the practicalities of daily life, particularly concerning healthcare access. This comprehensive analysis, culminating in an Overall Health Score, will illuminate the transportation landscape for medical appointments within ZIP code 35549, providing valuable insights for prospective residents and current inhabitants alike.

The ability to efficiently reach healthcare providers is a cornerstone of overall well-being. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing medical care within and around Carbon Hill. A high score reflects ease of access, while a lower score indicates potential difficulties. The score will be based on a weighted system, with drive times given the highest importance, followed by the availability and reliability of public transit and alternative transportation.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation for most Carbon Hill residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the road network. The major thoroughfare serving Carbon Hill is US Highway 78, a vital artery connecting the town to larger cities like Jasper and Birmingham. Traveling east on US-78 provides access to Walker Baptist Medical Center in Jasper, a crucial healthcare hub for the region. The drive typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions.

To the west, US-78 leads towards Hamilton, another town with limited healthcare options. The drive time is generally longer, around 30-40 minutes. While this route offers access to healthcare facilities, the distance presents a significant time commitment, especially during emergencies or for frequent appointments.

State Route 118, intersecting with US-78 in Carbon Hill, provides an alternative route for some destinations. However, this road tends to be less direct and may not offer significant time savings. Smaller county roads like County Road 63 and County Road 14 offer access to local communities but are generally unsuitable for rapid transportation to healthcare facilities.

The overall drive-time score will reflect the accessibility of healthcare facilities within a reasonable radius. The 15-20 minute drive to Jasper is considered favorable, while the longer drive to Hamilton and beyond diminishes the score. The presence of only a few primary roads limits flexibility and increases vulnerability to traffic incidents.

**Public Transit: A Limited Footprint**

Public transportation options in Carbon Hill are severely limited. Walker County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This deficiency is a major contributor to a lower overall score.

The absence of public transit forces residents to rely on alternative transportation methods, often increasing the burden on family and friends. The lack of ADA-accessible buses further exacerbates the problem for individuals with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is generally lower in rural areas like Carbon Hill compared to larger cities. Ride-sharing can be a viable option for occasional appointments, but it may not be sustainable for regular healthcare needs.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer specialized assistance for individuals requiring assistance with mobility or medical supervision during transport. These services are crucial for those who cannot drive or use public transit. However, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The availability of medical transport services, while essential, does not fully compensate for the lack of accessible public transit or the potential unreliability of ride-sharing. The cost factor and the need for prior arrangements can create significant logistical challenges.

**Healthcare Access: The Destination**

The primary healthcare destination for most Carbon Hill residents is Walker Baptist Medical Center in Jasper. This facility offers a range of medical services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialist appointments. Other options include clinics and physician offices located in Jasper and surrounding towns.

The availability of specialists and the quality of care at these facilities are crucial factors in assessing healthcare access. The Overall Health Score will consider the proximity of these facilities, the range of services offered, and the ease of making appointments.

**Overall Health Score Calculation**

The Overall Health Score for commute to healthcare in Carbon Hill (35549) will be calculated using the following weighted criteria:

* **Drive Times (50%):** This will assess the average time to reach key healthcare facilities, considering traffic conditions and road quality.
* **Public Transit Availability (20%):** This will evaluate the presence and reliability of public transportation options, including ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport (15%):** This will assess the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity and Services (15%):** This will consider the distance to healthcare facilities, the range of services offered, and the ease of making appointments.

**Final Score and Conclusion**

Considering the factors outlined above, the Overall Health Score for commute to healthcare in Carbon Hill (35549) is **Moderate**. The relatively short drive to Walker Baptist Medical Center in Jasper provides a crucial advantage. However, the lack of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant challenges for some residents.

For those considering moving to Carbon Hill, understanding these transportation limitations is essential. While the town offers a peaceful environment, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should thoroughly investigate alternative transportation options and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access. The community could benefit from initiatives to improve public transit or support ride-sharing programs, ultimately enhancing the overall health and well-being of its residents.