35634, Florence, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35634, Florence, Alabama is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.15 percent of residents in 35634 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Alabama Medical Center with a distance of 5.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35634 (Florence, Alabama)

The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 35634, focusing on the crucial element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We will examine the available modes of transport, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone considering moving to Florence or currently residing within this area.

The score will reflect the ease, affordability, and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering factors such as drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of accessible options for individuals with disabilities. Understanding the nuances of transportation is paramount to evaluating the overall health and well-being of the community.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

For many residents of 35634, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The city of Florence and the surrounding areas are well-served by a network of roads, including major arteries like **Highway 72**, which runs east-west, and **Highway 43**, providing north-south access. These highways are crucial for reaching larger medical centers and specialists located outside of the immediate vicinity.

Drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on the location within the ZIP code, the specific medical facility, and the time of day. During peak traffic hours, particularly along Highway 72, travel times can increase, potentially impacting the timely access to appointments and emergency care. Residents living further from major thoroughfares may also experience longer travel times due to the need to navigate local roads.

Smaller roads, such as **Veterans Drive** and **Cox Creek Parkway**, provide access to local clinics and medical offices. These routes are generally less congested but can still be affected by traffic, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. Careful consideration of driving distances and potential traffic delays is essential when planning healthcare appointments.

**Navigating Public Transit:**

The availability of public transit in 35634 is a critical factor influencing healthcare access, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The city of Florence operates a public transit system, offering bus routes that serve various parts of the city. However, the scope of the service and the frequency of routes may present challenges for some residents.

Specific route numbers and their coverage areas should be carefully researched to determine their proximity to healthcare facilities. The availability of **ADA-compliant buses** is crucial for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can access healthcare services with dignity and ease. Understanding the schedules, route maps, and accessibility features of the public transit system is vital for those relying on this mode of transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as valuable alternatives for healthcare transportation. These services offer on-demand rides, providing flexibility and convenience for residents needing to reach medical appointments. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services in 35634 should be considered, as they can significantly impact the affordability of healthcare access.

Specialized medical transport services also play a vital role, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offering door-to-door service and assistance with boarding and disembarking. Researching the availability of NEMT providers and understanding their service areas and pricing is essential for those who may require this specialized assistance.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

The landscape of medical transport brands in the area may include local and regional providers. Specific brands may offer services ranging from basic transportation to specialized medical transport with trained personnel. Researching these brands and their specific offerings is crucial.

**The Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 35634 is complex, reflecting the interplay of various transportation factors. The score is influenced by the convenience and efficiency of driving, the availability and accessibility of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport options.

The score is also affected by the proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas. Residents living closer to hospitals, clinics, and medical offices will generally have better healthcare access than those living further away.

The affordability of transportation is another crucial factor. The cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle, the fares for public transit, and the fees for ride-sharing and medical transport services can significantly impact a resident's ability to access healthcare.

Finally, the accessibility of transportation options for individuals with disabilities is a critical component of the "Overall Health Score." The availability of ADA-compliant public transit, the presence of accessible ride-sharing services, and the availability of specialized medical transport services are all essential for ensuring that all residents can access healthcare.

**Moving to Florence and Healthcare Access:**

For those considering moving to Florence, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. Researching the proximity of potential residences to healthcare facilities, evaluating the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, and assessing the accessibility of these options are crucial steps in making an informed decision.

By carefully considering these factors, prospective residents can ensure they choose a location that provides convenient and affordable access to the healthcare services they need. This proactive approach will contribute to their overall health and well-being in their new community.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for 35634 reflects a mixed picture regarding transportation and healthcare access. While the presence of major highways provides reasonable access to medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, the potential cost of ride-sharing services, and the need for specialized medical transport for some residents highlight areas for improvement. By understanding the complexities of transportation in this ZIP code, residents and prospective movers can make informed decisions and advocate for improvements that enhance healthcare access for all. The ongoing efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing options, and ensure the availability of accessible transportation services are critical to improving the overall health and well-being of the community.