35632, Florence, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35632, Florence, Alabama is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

94.74 percent of residents in 35632 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Alabama Medical Center with a distance of 1.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35632

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 35632 (Florence, Alabama), provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease of transportation to medical facilities. For individuals considering moving to Florence, understanding these nuances is critical for making informed decisions about their well-being. This write-up explores the various modes of transportation available, their associated challenges, and ultimately, paints a picture of healthcare accessibility within this specific geographic area.

ZIP Code 35632, encompassing much of Florence, presents a unique transportation landscape. The city is a hub for the Shoals area, and its healthcare infrastructure, while present, is dispersed. The primary challenge is the reliance on personal vehicles, which directly impacts the health score.

The most direct route to healthcare facilities in Florence typically involves driving. Major thoroughfares like **Highway 72** (also known as Florence Boulevard) and **Highway 43** are crucial arteries. These roads connect residents to the primary hospital, **North Alabama Medical Center (NAMC)**, and various clinics and specialist offices. The drive time to NAMC from various points within 35632 can vary significantly.

During peak hours, traffic congestion, particularly along Florence Boulevard, can extend travel times, potentially delaying crucial medical appointments. The average drive time from central 35632 to NAMC is approximately 10-15 minutes, but this can easily double during rush hour. Smaller clinics and doctor's offices are often located along **Cox Creek Parkway** and **Veterans Drive**, which may offer slightly shorter commutes depending on the patient's location.

The availability of public transportation is a significant factor in the overall health score. Unfortunately, the public transit system in Florence, while present, is limited. The **Shoals Transportation Authority (STA)** provides bus services, but the routes are infrequent and cover a limited geographical area. The routes, unfortunately, do not have specific route numbers, and the STA website and app are the best way to find the specific routes.

The lack of frequent service and limited route coverage significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The STA buses do offer ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating, which is a positive aspect. However, the infrequency of the routes and the potential for long wait times can present significant challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those needing immediate medical attention. This limitation negatively impacts the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Florence can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of 35632. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing provides a degree of flexibility, it cannot be considered a reliable or affordable primary mode of transportation for healthcare access for all residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available in Florence. Companies like **MedTrans** and **CareRide** offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically provide transportation for appointments, dialysis, and other medical needs. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and pre-booking is often required. The cost of NEMT can also be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for some patients.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 35632 is moderate. While the presence of NAMC and various clinics provides a solid foundation for healthcare, the limitations in transportation options significantly impact the score. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability create challenges for many residents. For those considering moving to Florence, particularly those without reliable transportation or with mobility issues, careful consideration of healthcare access is essential.

The geographical layout of Florence, with its dispersed healthcare facilities and reliance on major highways, presents both advantages and disadvantages. The relatively short drive times for those with personal vehicles are a positive factor. However, the potential for traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit negatively impact the score.

The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial lifeline for some patients, but the cost and availability of these services must be considered. The overall health score is further influenced by the socioeconomic factors of the community. Lower-income residents may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to transportation costs and limited access to personal vehicles.

The future of healthcare access in 35632 could be improved by investing in public transportation infrastructure. Expanding the STA's routes, increasing service frequency, and improving the integration of public transit with healthcare facilities would significantly enhance the overall health score. Encouraging the use of ride-sharing services through incentives or partnerships could also improve accessibility.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of healthcare providers in underserved areas of 35632 could mitigate some of the transportation challenges. These initiatives would contribute to a more equitable and accessible healthcare system, ultimately improving the overall health and well-being of the community.

In conclusion, while Florence offers a range of healthcare services, the transportation landscape presents significant challenges. The overall health score is moderate, reflecting the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability. Individuals considering moving to Florence should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access. The city's future health hinges on strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and innovative solutions to improve healthcare accessibility for all residents. This is a vital consideration for anyone contemplating a move to Florence and a critical factor in assessing the overall quality of life in 35632.