35574, Kennedy, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35574, Kennedy, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.91 percent of residents in 35574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 12.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35574

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access essential healthcare services. In ZIP Code 35574, encompassing the town of Kennedy, Alabama, the journey to receive medical attention is a crucial factor in determining its overall health score. This analysis considers various transportation options, their accessibility, and the potential impact on residents, especially those considering moving to Kennedy.

The primary mode of transportation in and out of Kennedy is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The town's relative isolation means that residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for commuting to healthcare facilities. The main arteries for travel are **U.S. Highway 43** and **Alabama State Route 17**. These roads, while providing direct access to nearby towns and cities, can present challenges. Drive times to healthcare facilities become significant, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather.

The nearest hospitals, offering a comprehensive range of services, are located in larger towns like Tuscaloosa and Jasper. A trip to Tuscaloosa, approximately 60 miles south via Highway 43, could easily take over an hour, even in optimal conditions. Jasper, around 30 miles northeast, accessible via State Route 17, offers a shorter commute, but still requires a significant time commitment. These drive times directly impact healthcare access, potentially delaying crucial treatments or preventative care.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 35574 are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system poses a substantial barrier for individuals who do not own or have access to a car. This includes the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income families. The lack of public transportation significantly lowers the overall health score by limiting the ability to reach healthcare providers.

While there may be some local taxi services, they are unlikely to be equipped to handle the demands of regular healthcare appointments. The absence of readily available public transit or reliable taxi services further compounds the transportation challenges faced by residents.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in larger cities, but their presence in Kennedy is uncertain and likely limited. Even if available, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for many residents, making it an unreliable option for routine medical appointments. The lack of readily available and affordable ride-sharing services further diminishes the health score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. However, the availability and cost of these services in Kennedy need careful consideration. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those requiring specialized medical assistance during transport. Investigating the presence and accessibility of medical transport providers is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of any available transportation options is paramount. Ensuring that public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport vehicles are accessible to individuals with disabilities is a critical factor in evaluating healthcare access. This includes features like wheelchair lifts, accessible seating, and trained personnel to assist passengers. The lack of ADA-compliant transportation significantly reduces the health score for individuals with disabilities.

The impact of these transportation limitations extends beyond the immediate inconvenience of travel. The time and effort required to reach healthcare facilities can lead to delayed or missed appointments, resulting in poorer health outcomes. This can be particularly detrimental for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring regular check-ups. The stress and anxiety associated with navigating transportation challenges can also negatively affect mental health, further impacting the overall health score.

For individuals considering moving to Kennedy, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The availability of healthcare services and the ease of accessing them should be a key factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents need to assess their own transportation needs and capabilities, considering the potential impact on their health and well-being.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 35574, regarding healthcare access, is significantly impacted by the transportation infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers to healthcare access. The absence of ADA-compliant transportation further compounds these challenges.

Improving the health score requires addressing these transportation deficits. This could involve exploring the feasibility of establishing a public transit system, partnering with ride-sharing services to provide affordable transportation options, or supporting the growth of medical transport providers. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and improving traffic flow, could also reduce drive times and enhance healthcare access.

Ultimately, the health and well-being of the residents of Kennedy depend on their ability to access essential healthcare services. Addressing the transportation challenges is a critical step in improving the overall health score and creating a healthier community. The current state of transportation presents a significant challenge, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone considering moving to Kennedy and for the community as a whole to thrive.