35653, Russellville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35653, Russellville, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.07 percent of residents in 35653 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russellville Hospital with a distance of 2.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35653

This report provides an overall health score assessment for individuals residing in ZIP Code 35653 (Russellville, Alabama), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access. It analyzes the available transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to determine the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical facilities. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Russellville, as healthcare accessibility is a significant factor in overall well-being.

The health score, in this context, considers factors such as travel time, mode of transportation, cost, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. A higher score indicates better access to healthcare services, while a lower score suggests potential challenges in reaching medical providers. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for the residents of 35653.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Russellville is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the road network and the distance to various medical facilities. The primary thoroughfare within Russellville is **Highway 43**, which serves as a vital artery, connecting residents to local hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. Travel times along Highway 43 are generally moderate, with minimal congestion during off-peak hours.

For destinations outside of Russellville, such as larger hospitals in neighboring cities, **Highway 24** becomes crucial. This highway provides a direct route east towards Decatur and Athens, where more specialized medical care is available. The drive to Decatur, a major healthcare hub, typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. The drive to Athens is similar, though traffic is usually less congested.

**Highway 187** and **Highway 243** offer alternative routes, particularly for accessing facilities on the outskirts of Russellville or in surrounding communities. These roads, while generally less congested than Highway 43, may involve longer travel times due to lower speed limits and more frequent intersections. The condition of these roads is generally good, but potholes and uneven surfaces can sometimes impact travel comfort.

The overall drive time to healthcare facilities in Russellville and surrounding areas is a moderate factor. While the road network is generally well-maintained, the reliance on personal vehicles can present challenges for those without access to a car or those unable to drive. This is a key consideration for assessing the overall health score related to transportation and healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Russellville and the surrounding area are limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the city limits. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive, such as the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of a robust public transportation system creates a barrier to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments.

While there are no dedicated public bus routes, some limited transportation assistance may be available through social service agencies or non-profit organizations. However, these services are often restricted to specific populations and may require advance booking, further complicating healthcare access. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit options exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

The lack of public transportation is a major factor influencing the health score in this area. Individuals who are unable to drive are significantly disadvantaged in accessing healthcare, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. This limitation underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions to improve healthcare access for all residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Russellville, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals requiring assistance to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the Russellville area, providing services such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transportation. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and may require prior arrangements.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services does improve the health score by providing alternative transportation options. However, the limitations in availability, cost, and the need for advance booking underscore the need for a more comprehensive and accessible transportation system.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Ambulance Services:** Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers operate in the area, offering emergency medical transport.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT):** Several companies provide NEMT services, including wheelchair-accessible vans and stretcher transport.

**Healthcare Access and the Health Score**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35653 is moderate. While the road network allows for relatively easy access to local healthcare facilities, the lack of public transportation and the limitations of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for some residents. The availability of medical transport services helps to mitigate some of these challenges, but the cost and booking requirements can be barriers.

The health score is particularly affected by the absence of a robust public transit system. This significantly impacts individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The lack of accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities further exacerbates these challenges.

**Moving to Russellville: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Russellville, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates having a reliable form of transportation. Those who cannot drive should carefully consider the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The limited public transportation options and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability should be taken into account. Individuals with specific healthcare needs, such as frequent appointments or specialized care requirements, should assess the proximity of relevant facilities and the feasibility of accessing them.

The overall health score highlights the need for improved transportation options to enhance healthcare access for all residents of 35653. Investing in public transit, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport would significantly improve the health score and contribute to a healthier community. This is a key consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Russellville.