35649, Mooresville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35649, Mooresville, Alabama is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.07 percent of residents in 35649 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Decatur Morgan Hospital - Decatur Campus with a distance of 5.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35649

This comprehensive analysis evaluates the accessibility of healthcare services within and surrounding ZIP Code 35649, encompassing Mooresville, Alabama. The primary focus is on transportation options, crucial for residents' healthcare access. Understanding the commute landscape is vital for individuals considering moving to Mooresville, as it directly impacts their overall health and well-being.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ considers various factors, including drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. This multifaceted approach provides a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities residents face when seeking medical care. The goal is to offer a clear and actionable assessment, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and their relocation plans.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary roads serving Mooresville, 35649, are vital for healthcare access. Interstate 65 (I-65) is the major artery, providing north-south connectivity. The drive to Decatur Morgan Hospital, a significant regional healthcare provider, is typically a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. This journey involves navigating I-65 and local roads like AL-36.

For residents in the northern parts of the ZIP code, accessing facilities in Athens, Alabama, might involve utilizing US-31 and AL-20. This route, while shorter in distance, can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The drive time to Athens-Limestone Hospital averages 15-25 minutes.

Rural roads like Mooresville Road and Capshaw Road provide access to local clinics and physician offices. However, these routes may be less maintained and can be challenging during inclement weather. Understanding these variations in road quality and potential delays is essential for residents planning healthcare appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Mooresville and the surrounding areas are limited. The City of Decatur operates a public transit system, Decatur Transit, but its routes and services are primarily focused on the city itself. There is no direct public transportation route that serves Mooresville, AL, meaning residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for healthcare access.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. While Decatur Transit vehicles are equipped with ADA features, the lack of service in Mooresville presents a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential solution for healthcare transportation. However, their availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas.

The reliability of ride-sharing services is a crucial factor. Individuals relying on these services for healthcare appointments need to factor in potential delays and ensure they have backup plans in case of unavailability. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant consideration, especially for frequent medical visits.

**Medical Transport Services:**

For individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, specialized medical transport services are available. These services, such as MedStar Ambulance and other private companies, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). NEMT services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related destinations.

The cost of medical transport services can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage. Residents should investigate their insurance policies to understand their coverage for medical transportation. Booking these services in advance is crucial to ensure availability and timely arrival.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Healthcare access extends beyond transportation. The availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance is paramount. Mooresville residents have access to a range of healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics. However, the specific needs of each individual will dictate the most appropriate healthcare options.

The quality of care, the availability of specialists, and the cost of services are all critical factors in evaluating healthcare access. Residents should research healthcare providers, read patient reviews, and understand their insurance coverage to make informed decisions. The overall health score must consider the interplay of transportation and the availability of quality healthcare.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 35649 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Decatur and Athens provides access to hospitals and specialized care, the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation poses challenges for certain populations. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning.

The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost and insurance coverage for these services should be carefully considered. The overall score is therefore influenced by the interplay of drive times, the accessibility of ride-sharing, the availability of medical transport, and the overall quality and availability of healthcare providers.

**Recommendations:**

For individuals considering moving to Mooresville, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive, their access to reliable transportation, and their insurance coverage for medical services. Researching the location of healthcare providers and understanding the drive times to these facilities is crucial.

For current residents, exploring alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services, can improve healthcare access. Advocating for improved public transit options and supporting initiatives that promote healthcare access are vital steps. The overall health score can be improved through concerted efforts to address transportation barriers and enhance healthcare accessibility.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents of 35649 have equitable access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their transportation limitations. The overall health score is a dynamic measure that can be improved through ongoing efforts to address the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities within this community.