35670, Somerville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35670, Somerville, Alabama is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.08 percent of residents in 35670 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lawrence Medical Center with a distance of 31.22 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Somerville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35670)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Somerville, Alabama (ZIP code 35670), this access is largely dictated by transportation infrastructure and options. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the nuances of commuting to healthcare facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability. We aim to paint a vivid picture for residents and those considering **moving to Somerville**, highlighting the realities of **healthcare access** in this area.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Somerville, AL, is assessed as **Moderate**. While the area offers some options, significant limitations exist, particularly for those without personal vehicles or requiring specialized medical transport. This score reflects the interplay of geographical constraints, limited public transit, and the availability of alternative transport methods.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Somerville is the personal vehicle. The town's location in Morgan County, Alabama, necessitates driving to larger medical facilities. The most direct route to Huntsville Hospital, a major regional provider, involves traveling south on Highway 67, then merging onto Interstate 565 West. This drive, covering approximately 30 miles, typically takes between 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Accessing Decatur Morgan Hospital, located approximately 15 miles west, presents a shorter commute. Residents would likely use Highway 67, then merge onto Highway 31 South, resulting in a drive time of about 20 to 30 minutes. This route is often less congested than the I-565 corridor, making it a more reliable option for urgent care needs. The condition of these roads, particularly Highway 67, can impact travel times. Road maintenance and potential construction projects can significantly lengthen the commute.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are located in and around Somerville, providing immediate access to primary care and routine check-ups. However, specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or specialized surgery, often requires travel to Huntsville or Decatur. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of travel time, especially for patients with mobility limitations or chronic conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Somerville are extremely limited. The City of Decatur operates a public transit system, Decatur Transit, but its routes and services are primarily concentrated within the city limits. These routes do not extend to Somerville. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for residents who do not own vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families.

ADA-accessible features on any potential public transit would be crucial. Without these features, the healthcare access score would be lower.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability and affordability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of a ride-share to Huntsville or Decatur can be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for those needing regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges, offer a critical lifeline. Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers offer ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). NEMT provides transportation for appointments, dialysis, and other medical needs. These services, while essential, can be expensive and require prior scheduling. The availability of these services is crucial for those unable to drive themselves or utilize public transit.

**Considerations for Moving to Somerville**

For those considering **moving to Somerville**, the availability of transportation for healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with chronic health conditions or those who may experience unexpected medical needs.

The lack of public transit and the limitations of ride-sharing services highlight the importance of personal vehicle ownership. Those without access to a car may face significant challenges in accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Improving the "Overall Health Score" for Somerville requires addressing the transportation limitations. Advocating for expanded public transit options, including routes that connect Somerville to Decatur and Huntsville, would significantly improve **healthcare access**. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized services for medical appointments could also alleviate transportation barriers.

Furthermore, community outreach programs that educate residents about available medical transport services and financial assistance programs can help ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

In conclusion, while Somerville offers a pleasant living environment, the limitations in transportation for healthcare access pose a significant challenge. The "Overall Health Score" reflects this reality, emphasizing the need for strategic interventions to improve healthcare access for all residents. The ability to readily access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of community well-being. The success of Somerville's health depends on addressing these transportation challenges.