35564, Hackleburg, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35564, Hackleburg, Alabama is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.83 percent of residents in 35564 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lakeland Community Hospital with a distance of 13.06 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35564

Considering a move to Hackleburg, Alabama (ZIP Code 35564)? Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This write-up analyzes the overall health score related to commuting to healthcare facilities from this rural community, factoring in transportation options, drive times, and service availability. We’ll delve into the realities of healthcare access, offering a comprehensive view for potential residents.

The overall health score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach necessary medical services. Factors considered include the proximity of facilities, the availability of various transportation modes, and the time required to travel. This score isn't a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the challenges and opportunities presented by Hackleburg's location and infrastructure.

Hackleburg, nestled in Marion County, presents a unique challenge regarding healthcare access. The town's relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. Residents often rely on personal vehicles, making drive times a critical component of the overall health score. The primary roadways serving the area are Alabama Highway 171, which connects Hackleburg to larger towns, and U.S. Highway 43, providing access to the north-south corridor.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly. The closest options include the Hackleburg Medical Clinic, offering primary care services. However, for specialized care, residents typically travel to larger towns like Hamilton or Winfield. Drive times to Hamilton, the county seat, are generally around 20-30 minutes via AL-171. Winfield, offering additional medical services, is accessible within a similar timeframe.

Traveling to Tupelo, Mississippi, approximately an hour and a half away via US-43, provides access to a wider array of specialists and hospitals. Birmingham, a major medical hub, is a more extended journey, requiring approximately two to two and a half hours via US-43 and I-22. These longer drive times significantly impact the overall health score, particularly for those with chronic conditions or urgent medical needs.

Public transportation options in Hackleburg are limited. Marion County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This absence significantly impacts the overall health score, especially for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities. The lack of readily available public transit can create substantial barriers to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Hackleburg is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments might prove unreliable and expensive, further impacting the overall health score.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize other transportation methods. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) provide transport to and from medical appointments. While these services are available, their availability and cost vary. Booking in advance is often necessary, and the overall expense can be substantial.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transportation and in healthcare facilities. However, the lack of a robust public transit system in Hackleburg limits the practical application of these requirements. Healthcare facilities, however, are generally required to comply with ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for patients with disabilities.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 35564 is, therefore, moderate. While primary care is accessible within the community, specialized care necessitates travel. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services present significant challenges.

For those considering moving to Hackleburg, understanding these limitations is crucial. Planning for healthcare access should be a priority. This includes considering the potential need for longer drive times, the cost of transportation, and the importance of securing reliable transportation options.

The overall health score is dynamic, and efforts to improve healthcare access could positively impact it. Community initiatives aimed at increasing public transportation options, promoting ride-sharing services, or supporting the expansion of medical transportation services would significantly improve the overall health score.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can help mitigate some of the challenges associated with geographic isolation. Telehealth allows patients to access medical consultations and monitoring remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits.

The overall health score is not a judgment on the quality of healthcare available. Instead, it's an assessment of the ease with which residents can access the healthcare they need. While Hackleburg offers a welcoming community and a lower cost of living, prospective residents must carefully evaluate the transportation challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

Moving to Hackleburg requires a realistic assessment of healthcare access. The overall health score reflects the need for careful planning, proactive measures, and an understanding of the transportation landscape. While the community offers a unique charm, the challenges of healthcare access must be addressed to ensure residents' well-being. The overall health score is a crucial factor in making an informed decision about relocating to this rural Alabama community.