35643, Hillsboro, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35643, Hillsboro, Alabama is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.04 percent of residents in 35643 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lawrence Medical Center with a distance of 12.67 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35643

This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 35643, focusing on the transportation landscape and its impact on residents' overall health. Understanding the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities is paramount, especially for those considering moving to Hillsboro or currently residing in the area. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing vital healthcare services.

The foundation of any healthcare journey in 35643 is often the automobile. Navigating the roads is a daily reality. From Hillsboro, the journey to the nearest major hospitals, such as Decatur Morgan Hospital in Decatur, typically involves traversing Highway 31 (also known as the AL-31) and Highway 67. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive can range from 15 to 30 minutes. Residents should also consider the impact of rush hour, which can significantly extend travel times.

Beyond Decatur, more specialized care might necessitate travel to Huntsville Hospital in Huntsville, a journey that involves Interstate 65 (I-65) and often takes around an hour, depending on the specific destination within the city and the traffic patterns. This longer commute highlights the importance of planning and considering potential delays, especially for those with chronic conditions or urgent medical needs.

Public transportation, while present, presents limitations in 35643. The availability of buses is limited. However, the Decatur Transit System offers some routes that extend into the surrounding areas. It is important to note that the frequency of service and the coverage area may not fully meet the needs of all residents, particularly those living outside of the immediate Decatur city limits.

The Decatur Transit System operates a limited number of routes. These routes might include the following routes: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7. Route 7 may be the most relevant to residents in 35643, though the exact routing and frequency should be verified with the Decatur Transit System directly. The presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on these buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a more flexible transportation option than public transit. Their presence provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. This variability needs to be factored into healthcare planning.

Medical transport services play a vital role for individuals with specific needs. These services, often provided by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, cater to patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. While the specific providers operating in 35643 may vary, it's essential to investigate the availability, cost, and types of services offered.

The availability of medical transport is particularly critical for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those recovering from surgery or illness. These services can alleviate the burden of transportation, ensuring that patients can access the care they need without undue hardship. Understanding the options for medical transport is a crucial component of assessing healthcare access.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 35643 is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare facilities necessitates careful planning and awareness of potential traffic delays. While ride-sharing services offer a viable alternative, their cost and availability can be a concern. The limited public transportation options present a significant challenge for those without access to a car.

The distance to specialized healthcare facilities, such as those in Huntsville, further underscores the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access. The availability of medical transport services is a crucial factor for individuals with specific needs, providing a vital link to care.

For those considering moving to Hillsboro, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. Prospective residents should research the drive times to various healthcare providers, explore the feasibility of using public transit or ride-sharing services, and investigate the availability of medical transport services. This proactive approach will help ensure that healthcare access is readily available and meets their individual needs.

The overall health score for 35643 reflects a landscape where transportation plays a pivotal role in healthcare access. While drive times to nearby hospitals are relatively manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offers valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability should be carefully considered.

Improving healthcare access in 35643 requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, expanding the reach of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport options are crucial steps. Furthermore, community initiatives that promote carpooling or provide transportation assistance to those in need can significantly improve healthcare accessibility for all residents.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in 35643 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the transportation infrastructure presents some limitations. Careful planning, awareness of available resources, and proactive engagement with the community can help residents navigate these challenges and ensure that they can access the healthcare they need. This is a critical consideration for those moving to Hillsboro or residing in the area, impacting their overall well-being and quality of life.