35580, Parrish, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35580, Parrish, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.13 percent of residents in 35580 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 31.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Parrish, Alabama (ZIP Code 35580)

Parrish, Alabama, a community nestled in Walker County, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and rural living. For those considering moving to Parrish, understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare services, focusing on transportation options within and surrounding ZIP code 35580. This assessment examines the available modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit and specialized medical transport, to determine the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare.

The Overall Health Score considers several key factors: drive times to medical facilities, the availability and efficiency of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the existence of medical transport options. A higher score indicates greater ease of access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape for current and prospective residents of Parrish.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For most Parrish residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of healthcare access is significantly influenced by the proximity of medical facilities and the quality of the roadways. The primary roadways serving Parrish include US-78, a major east-west artery, and AL-13, which runs north-south. These highways and roads are essential for commuting to healthcare providers.

The closest major hospital is Walker Baptist Medical Center in Jasper, approximately 15 miles east of Parrish. The drive time to Jasper typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive is generally straightforward, utilizing US-78. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact travel times.

Specialist care may require travel to Birmingham, approximately 50 miles south of Parrish. This journey primarily involves US-78 and I-22, and the drive time can vary from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. While the interstate provides a faster route, it also introduces the potential for traffic delays, especially during rush hour or in the event of an accident.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are located in surrounding towns, such as Carbon Hill and Dora. These facilities offer more immediate care options and can be reached within a 10 to 20-minute drive. The availability of these local options significantly enhances the overall healthcare access score.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Parrish are limited. Walker County operates a public transit system, but its service area and frequency are restricted. The system primarily focuses on providing transportation within Walker County, with limited routes and schedules.

The availability of public transit is a critical component of healthcare access, especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the current public transit system in Parrish does not provide comprehensive coverage. The routes and schedules may not align with the needs of residents seeking medical appointments, and ADA-accessible features may be limited.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for those who rely on it for healthcare access. Expanding and improving the public transit system would substantially enhance the overall health score for Parrish residents.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The presence of ride-sharing provides an alternative transportation option, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost and availability of these services can be a barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, are available for individuals who require specialized transportation to medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides valuable options for those who face challenges in accessing healthcare. However, the cost and availability of these services must be considered when assessing the overall healthcare access score.

**Overall Health Score: Assessment and Recommendations**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in Parrish, Alabama (ZIP code 35580) is moderate. While the proximity of Walker Baptist Medical Center and smaller clinics provides reasonable access to basic healthcare, the limitations of public transportation and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services and medical transport services reduce the overall score.

The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access underscores the importance of maintaining good road conditions and addressing traffic congestion. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and improving traffic flow, would enhance the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities.

Expanding and improving the public transit system is crucial to improving healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Increasing the frequency of routes, expanding the service area, and ensuring ADA-accessible features would significantly improve the overall health score.

Promoting and subsidizing ride-sharing services, or partnering with medical transport providers, could help bridge the gap for those who cannot access public transportation or personal vehicles. Providing financial assistance to offset the cost of these services would enhance healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Further, community outreach programs that educate residents about the available transportation options and connect them with resources would be beneficial. This could involve partnering with local healthcare providers to offer transportation assistance or establish a volunteer driver program.

For individuals considering moving to Parrish, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. While the community offers a range of healthcare options, understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities will help ensure that residents can access the care they need. The Overall Health Score, while moderate, can be improved through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure, public transit, and support services. This will ultimately contribute to a healthier and more accessible community for all residents of Parrish.