35565, Haleyville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35565, Haleyville, Alabama is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.18 percent of residents in 35565 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lakeland Community Hospital with a distance of 0.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Haleyville, AL (ZIP Code 35565)

Considering a move to the charming town of Haleyville, Alabama, within the 35565 ZIP code? Understanding the ease of access to healthcare is paramount for overall well-being. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for commuting to medical facilities, considering various transportation options and their associated challenges. This score will help you assess the practicality of healthcare access before making a decision about moving to Haleyville.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single numerical value but a holistic assessment. It considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. It also takes into account the specific needs of individuals, including those with disabilities, and the availability of specialized care. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access in the context of daily life.

Haleyville, nestled in Winston County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The town's relative isolation, while offering tranquility, influences healthcare access. The primary method of getting around is by personal vehicle, with public transportation limited. This means that the ability to drive and the condition of the roadways are critical components of the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Haleyville are US-278 and AL-195. These roads connect Haleyville to larger towns and cities where medical facilities are located. Driving times are crucial, as longer commutes can impact the timeliness of care, especially in emergencies.

To the west, the nearest significant medical facilities are in Hamilton, AL, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via US-278. This journey is generally straightforward, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours, especially near intersections. Road conditions are generally good, but occasional potholes and uneven surfaces may be present, particularly after inclement weather.

Heading east, the city of Cullman, AL, offers a wider array of healthcare options, including hospitals and specialty clinics. The drive to Cullman, primarily via AL-195 and then connecting to US-278, is significantly longer, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. This longer commute increases the risk of delays and presents a greater challenge for those needing frequent or urgent medical attention.

To the south, Jasper, AL, provides another option, but the drive, also using AL-195, is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Road conditions vary along this route, with some sections being less well-maintained than others.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Haleyville's public transportation infrastructure is limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town or connecting it to neighboring cities. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, including the elderly, disabled, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative options, which may have their own limitations. This scarcity of public transit is a major consideration for anyone contemplating a move to Haleyville, especially if they are dependent on public transportation for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly in a smaller town like Haleyville. Response times may be longer than in larger cities, and the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, these services require pre-booking and may have limited availability, especially for urgent needs. The cost of NEMT can also be a barrier to access for some individuals.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in transportation and healthcare facilities. However, the practical application of these requirements can vary. It is crucial to verify the ADA compliance of any transportation options and medical facilities being considered. This includes ensuring that vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts, that waiting areas are accessible, and that staff is trained to assist individuals with disabilities.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the types of healthcare available in the surrounding areas. Haleyville has its own local clinics and a small hospital, but these may not offer specialized care. Accessing specialists often requires travel to larger cities like Cullman or Birmingham, further impacting the "Overall Health Score."

The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services is critical. The distance to the nearest hospital and the time it takes to get there are crucial factors in the event of a medical emergency. The lack of readily available healthcare options can be a significant concern for those with chronic conditions or those who require frequent medical attention.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Haleyville (35565) is moderately challenging. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options and the distances to larger medical centers present significant hurdles. The score is primarily influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transportation, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Individuals considering moving to Haleyville should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and their ability to navigate the transportation landscape. Those with mobility issues, limited financial resources, or requiring frequent medical attention should carefully consider the challenges of healthcare access in this area.

**Recommendations:**

* **Assess Your Healthcare Needs:** Determine the frequency and type of medical care you require.
* **Evaluate Transportation Options:** Consider the cost and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Research Healthcare Facilities:** Investigate the availability of specialists and emergency services in the surrounding areas.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop a plan for accessing medical care in the event of an emergency.
* **Consider Proximity:** Prioritize housing options that are closer to medical facilities if healthcare access is a primary concern.

By carefully considering these factors, prospective residents can make an informed decision about moving to Haleyville and ensure they can access the healthcare they need. The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic assessment, and the specific needs of each individual will influence their perception of healthcare access.