35745, Estillfork, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35745, Estillfork, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.71 percent of residents in 35745 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highlands Medical Center with a distance of 21.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Estillfork, Alabama (ZIP Code 35745)

Estillfork, Alabama, nestled in the scenic embrace of Jackson County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and geographical challenges. Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 35745 necessitates a deep dive into the critical element of **transportation**, specifically its impact on **healthcare access**. This write-up analyzes the available options, their associated challenges, and the overall implications for community well-being. For those **moving to Estillfork**, this information is crucial for informed decision-making.

The primary factor influencing the health score in Estillfork is the distance to healthcare facilities. The nearest hospitals and specialty clinics are located in Scottsboro, approximately 15-20 miles away, and Huntsville, around 30-40 miles. These distances, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, weather conditions, and the availability of reliable **transportation**. The terrain, marked by rolling hills and winding roads, further complicates travel, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those relying on public transit.

The most common mode of travel is by personal vehicle. Residents typically utilize Alabama State Route 79, a two-lane highway that connects Estillfork to Scottsboro and the larger road network. Travel time to Scottsboro Hospital can be as quick as 20 minutes on a good day, but delays are frequent. The route is often congested during peak hours, and accidents can significantly extend travel times. From Scottsboro, residents can then access US-72, a major east-west artery, to reach Huntsville.

Alternatively, for those heading towards Huntsville, residents can also use County Road 41, which provides a more direct route, but this road is narrower and more prone to hazardous conditions during inclement weather. The journey on US-72 to Huntsville Hospital can take up to an hour, depending on traffic, especially during rush hour. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, poses a significant challenge. Icy or snowy conditions can make driving hazardous and potentially isolate residents, especially those living in more remote areas of the ZIP code.

Public transit options are limited in Estillfork. Jackson County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The primary public transit option is the Mountain Valley Transportation (MVT), a demand-response service. MVT offers transportation within Jackson County and to neighboring counties for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential needs. However, MVT operates on a reservation basis, requiring advance booking, and service is often limited.

MVT’s ADA-compliant vehicles provide accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking can create significant barriers for those needing immediate or unscheduled medical care. Furthermore, the availability of MVT services is often restricted to weekdays and daytime hours, further limiting access for those needing after-hours or weekend care. The lack of a fixed-route bus system makes it difficult for those without personal vehicles to access healthcare facilities.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Huntsville and Scottsboro but are not consistently available in Estillfork. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. Even when available, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for many residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The lack of consistent ride-sharing options further exacerbates the challenges of **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available in the event of emergencies. However, these services are primarily focused on emergency situations and are not intended for routine medical appointments. The response time of emergency medical services can be impacted by the distance to healthcare facilities and the condition of the roads. This is especially critical for individuals experiencing a medical emergency.

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private medical transport companies. These companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. The reliance on these services can increase the overall cost of healthcare for residents.

The overall health score for Estillfork, Alabama, is significantly impacted by the **transportation** challenges. The limited availability of public transit, the inconsistent presence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers to **healthcare access**. The distances to healthcare facilities, coupled with the potential for traffic delays and hazardous road conditions, further complicate the situation.

Individuals **moving to Estillfork** should carefully consider these factors. The lack of readily available **transportation** options can impact their ability to access routine medical care, specialist appointments, and emergency services. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and poorer health outcomes. Residents with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or limited financial resources are particularly vulnerable.

To improve the overall health score, several interventions are needed. Expanding public transit options, particularly demand-response services, would significantly improve **healthcare access**. Increasing the availability of ride-sharing services through incentives or partnerships with local healthcare providers could also help. Investing in road infrastructure, including improvements to Alabama State Route 79 and County Road 41, would enhance safety and reduce travel times.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and mobile healthcare clinics could bring healthcare services directly to the community, reducing the need for travel. Community outreach programs that provide information on available **transportation** options and healthcare resources are also crucial. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential to address the **transportation** challenges and improve the overall health and well-being of the residents of Estillfork, Alabama.