35648, Lexington, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35648, Lexington, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.71 percent of residents in 35648 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Alabama Medical Center with a distance of 18.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35648

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP Code 35648, encompassing Lexington, Alabama, this access hinges significantly on transportation. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the various modes of transportation available to residents for reaching medical facilities, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility. For those considering moving to Lexington, this information is crucial.

The foundation of healthcare access in 35648 is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The primary arteries for travel are Highway 31 and Highway 64. Highway 31, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers relatively swift passage to larger medical centers located in Florence, approximately a 30-minute drive south. Highway 64, running east-west, provides access to facilities in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, a similar drive time. However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can lengthen drive times, potentially delaying critical medical attention. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees also contribute to the overall financial burden of healthcare access.

Public transportation options in 35648 are limited. The Shoals Transit Authority, while serving the broader region, has limited routes and schedules that specifically cater to Lexington. This means that residents, particularly those without personal vehicles, face significant barriers in accessing healthcare. The absence of readily available public transit disproportionately affects the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families. The lack of ADA-compliant features on available routes further compounds these difficulties, potentially isolating vulnerable populations from essential medical services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in Lexington is variable. While these services can provide convenient door-to-door transportation, their cost can be prohibitive for many residents, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak demand further exacerbates the financial strain. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly during inclement weather or in remote areas, also presents a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, are available but require careful consideration. These services, often provided by specialized companies, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. While these services are vital for patients who cannot drive themselves, their availability and cost vary. The coordination of these services, including scheduling, insurance coverage, and geographical limitations, requires careful planning.

The geography of 35648 also influences healthcare access. The proximity to larger towns like Florence and Lawrenceburg offers access to a wider range of medical specialists and advanced treatment options. However, the drive times to these facilities, especially during emergencies, can be a significant factor in patient outcomes. The presence of local clinics and urgent care facilities in Lexington provides a crucial first line of defense, offering immediate medical attention for common ailments and minor injuries. These local facilities are crucial to the community.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 35648 is, therefore, moderate. The primary reliance on personal vehicles provides reasonable access for many residents. However, the limitations of public transportation, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services create significant barriers for vulnerable populations. The geographical location, while offering access to larger medical centers, also introduces the challenge of drive times.

To improve the overall health score, several interventions are necessary. Expanding public transportation routes and schedules, particularly those that connect Lexington with major medical facilities, is crucial. Ensuring ADA-compliant features on all public transit vehicles is essential for inclusivity. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income residents and providing financial assistance for medical transportation can alleviate the financial burden of healthcare access.

Promoting the use of telehealth services can also enhance healthcare access, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments. Encouraging the development of more local medical facilities, including specialists and diagnostic services, can reduce the need for long-distance travel. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and improving traffic flow, can reduce drive times and improve safety.

For individuals considering moving to Lexington, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and capabilities, considering the availability of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation. The proximity to medical facilities, the availability of local clinics, and the potential for telehealth services should also be factored into the decision-making process.

The "Overall Health Score" is not static. It is a dynamic reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access. By addressing the identified challenges and implementing the recommended interventions, 35648 can improve its overall health score, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need. This requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents. The goal is a healthier, more vibrant Lexington, where healthcare access is not a barrier but a fundamental right.