35616, Cherokee, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35616, Cherokee, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.64 percent of residents in 35616 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Helen Keller Hospital with a distance of 16.44 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35616

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 35616, Cherokee, Alabama, focusing specifically on the critical element of transportation to medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those residing in this rural area. This information is particularly pertinent for individuals considering moving to Cherokee, as it directly impacts their well-being and quality of life.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Cherokee, Alabama, is the reliance on personal vehicles. The geography of the area, characterized by its rural nature and dispersed population, significantly limits the feasibility of alternative transportation methods. Residents typically navigate the landscape using a network of roads and highways, making the commute to healthcare facilities a driving-based experience.

The most direct route to healthcare often involves navigating **Highway 72**, a major east-west artery that connects Cherokee to larger towns and cities. Depending on the specific medical facility and the location within ZIP Code 35616, drive times can vary considerably. For instance, reaching a hospital in Florence, Alabama, could involve a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within Cherokee.

The journey frequently involves utilizing **County Road 79**, a crucial north-south route providing access to local services and connecting to **Highway 72**. This road, while offering a more direct route to certain destinations, can be subject to congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. Additionally, smaller local roads, such as **County Road 77** and **County Road 78**, serve as connectors to the main arteries, providing access to various parts of the community.

The availability of public transit in ZIP Code 35616 is extremely limited. There is no formal public transportation system operating within the immediate area. The absence of buses or other forms of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or have limited mobility. This lack of public transportation severely impacts the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The absence of public transit necessitates a reliance on alternative transportation options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, though their presence and reliability can be sporadic, particularly in rural locations. The availability of these services depends on driver availability and demand, which can fluctuate significantly. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, especially for those requiring urgent or scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services are typically provided by private companies or local emergency medical services (EMS) providers. The availability and response times of these services are critical, particularly in emergency situations. The effectiveness of these services directly influences the overall health score, impacting the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The absence of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services underscore the importance of medical transport options. The ability of these services to respond promptly and efficiently to medical needs is essential for maintaining a reasonable overall health score.

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 35616 is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the absence of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, creates significant challenges for residents seeking healthcare.

The drive times, while varying depending on the destination and traffic conditions, can be a considerable factor, especially for those requiring frequent medical appointments or emergency care. The lack of alternative transportation options exacerbates these challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The availability and efficiency of medical transport services are critical in mitigating the negative impacts of these transportation limitations. The ability of these services to provide timely and reliable transportation is essential for ensuring healthcare access for those with mobility limitations or medical needs.

Considering all these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 35616 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations in alternative transportation options create significant challenges. The availability and efficiency of medical transport services are crucial in mitigating these challenges and ensuring that residents can access the healthcare they need.

For individuals considering moving to Cherokee, Alabama, understanding these transportation limitations is essential. Prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and the potential challenges associated with accessing healthcare. This information is vital for making informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The overall health score reflects the complex interplay between transportation infrastructure, healthcare access, and the well-being of the community. Addressing the transportation challenges in ZIP Code 35616, through potential improvements to existing infrastructure or the implementation of new transportation solutions, could significantly enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve the lives of its residents.