35674, Tuscumbia, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35674, Tuscumbia, Alabama is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.97 percent of residents in 35674 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Helen Keller Hospital with a distance of 3.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35674 (Tuscumbia, Alabama)

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is paramount when considering a move, especially for those prioritizing well-being. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 35674, focusing on its impact on healthcare accessibility. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport alternatives, offering a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” for residents and potential newcomers.

The “Overall Health Score” considers the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities, recognizing that timely access to care is a cornerstone of public health. Factors such as travel time, mode of transportation availability, and the presence of specialized services significantly influence this score. Understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or those seeking preventative care.

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

Tuscumbia, Alabama, relies heavily on vehicular transportation. The primary roadways dictating healthcare access are US Highway 72, US Highway 43, and Alabama State Route 157. These thoroughfares serve as the primary arteries connecting Tuscumbia to surrounding cities and medical centers. Drive times, therefore, are a critical determinant of the “Overall Health Score.”

Reaching Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, a key healthcare provider for the region, typically involves a drive of approximately 5-10 minutes via US Highway 72. This relatively short commute contributes positively to the score. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times, impacting the overall assessment.

For specialized care or services not available locally, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Huntsville, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive via US Highway 72 East and Interstate 65 South. While this distance might seem considerable, the well-maintained highways generally ensure a smooth and predictable journey, mitigating some of the negative impact on the score.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options within Tuscumbia and the surrounding areas are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility impairments or who cannot drive. This deficiency significantly affects the “Overall Health Score,” particularly for those who depend on alternative transportation.

While specific bus routes and schedules may vary, it's essential to investigate the availability of local transit options. The presence of ADA-accessible features on any available public transportation is crucial for ensuring inclusivity and equal access to healthcare services. Information on routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility can be obtained from local transportation authorities.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, availability and pricing can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a factor to consider when assessing the “Overall Health Score.”

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, play a crucial role in facilitating healthcare access. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including, but not limited to, First Response Ambulance Service and Shoals Ambulance. These services offer a range of options, from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance during transit. The availability and cost of these services significantly impact the "Overall Health Score" for individuals requiring specialized transportation.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Their Accessibility**

Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield is the primary healthcare provider for residents of Tuscumbia. Its proximity, as mentioned earlier, contributes favorably to the “Overall Health Score.” The hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialized treatments.

Other healthcare facilities in the area, such as clinics and specialist offices, may have varying levels of accessibility depending on their location and the mode of transportation required to reach them. The availability of these facilities and their proximity to residential areas are essential considerations.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score**

Several factors influence the “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in Tuscumbia. These include:

* **Drive times to healthcare facilities:** Shorter drive times contribute positively to the score.
* **Availability of public transit:** The absence of a robust public transit system negatively impacts the score.
* **Ride-sharing and medical transport options:** The availability and reliability of these services are essential.
* **Proximity to specialized care:** The need to travel to larger cities for specialized care can impact the score.
* **ADA accessibility:** The presence of ADA-compliant transportation options is critical for inclusivity.
* **Traffic congestion:** Peak-hour traffic can extend travel times and negatively affect the score.

**Moving to Tuscumbia: A Health-Conscious Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Tuscumbia, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. While the area offers a relatively short commute to a major hospital, the limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles require careful consideration. Individuals with mobility limitations or those who rely on alternative transportation should thoroughly investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment**

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35674 is moderately positive. The short drive times to Helen Keller Hospital are a significant advantage. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative solutions, but their reliability and cost must be carefully evaluated.

For individuals prioritizing healthcare access, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the available resources is essential. By understanding the nuances of the transportation landscape, potential newcomers can make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The “Overall Health Score” serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the healthcare accessibility of a community, promoting informed decision-making for residents and potential newcomers alike.