35748, Gurley, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35748, Gurley, Alabama is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.24 percent of residents in 35748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crestwood Medical Center with a distance of 9.89 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35748 (Gurley, Alabama)

The pursuit of optimal health is intrinsically linked to the ease with which individuals can access necessary medical services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 35748 (Gurley, Alabama), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically the transportation infrastructure and options available to navigate the region. This is crucial for anyone considering moving to Gurley, as the accessibility of healthcare significantly impacts quality of life.

Gurley, a charming town nestled in the heart of Madison County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare accessibility. While offering a tranquil environment, its location necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics when it comes to medical appointments, emergency situations, and preventative care. The "Overall Health Score" considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options.

**Drive Times: The Cornerstone of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Gurley and the surrounding areas is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode, however, hinges on the road network and the distances to various healthcare facilities. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from 35748 are **Highway 72** and **Highway 431**.

Heading west on **Highway 72** provides access to Huntsville, a major healthcare hub. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near the University Drive interchange. Drive times to major hospitals like Huntsville Hospital and Crestwood Medical Center typically range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey to specialized clinics and physician offices scattered throughout Huntsville also relies on this route.

Traveling east on **Highway 72** leads towards Scottsboro and further east, offering access to regional healthcare facilities. However, the distance increases, and drive times can exceed 45 minutes to an hour, impacting healthcare access, particularly in emergency situations.

**Highway 431**, a north-south route, offers an alternative, albeit less direct, path to Huntsville and the surrounding areas. This route, while potentially less congested than **Highway 72**, adds mileage and travel time. The condition of the roads and the presence of traffic signals can also influence drive times, making it less desirable during peak hours.

The overall drive-time assessment reveals a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While major healthcare facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can create challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a car.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Gurley and the surrounding areas is limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not own a vehicle. The Madison County Transit System (MCTS) offers some routes, but the coverage in Gurley is sparse, and routes may not directly serve healthcare facilities.

The MCTS routes that do operate in the vicinity of Gurley, such as Route 10, primarily serve the major thoroughfares, potentially requiring transfers to reach healthcare destinations. The availability of ADA-accessible features on these routes is crucial for individuals with disabilities, but the limited service frequency and route coverage significantly restrict their utility for accessing healthcare.

The absence of a robust public transit system severely impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for vulnerable populations. This lack of access can lead to missed appointments, delayed care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option for residents of 35748. However, the availability of these services in Gurley can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, play a crucial role in healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Several providers operate in the area, including Huntsville Hospital EMS and private NEMT companies. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and prior arrangements are often necessary.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport options adds a layer of flexibility to healthcare access. However, the limitations in availability, cost, and the need for prior planning underscore the need for a more comprehensive transportation solution.

**Overall Health Score: A Mixed Picture**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 35748 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Huntsville provides access to a wide range of healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges. The inconsistent availability and cost of ride-sharing services and the need for pre-arranged medical transport further complicate the picture.

For individuals considering moving to Gurley, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to a vehicle is essential. Those without access to a car may face significant challenges in accessing timely and convenient healthcare. The lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on potentially expensive ride-sharing services highlight the need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access in this community.

The "Overall Health Score" for 35748, therefore, reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While the proximity to Huntsville and the availability of some alternative transportation options provide a degree of access, the limitations in public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate careful planning and consideration for anyone seeking to establish or maintain their health. The community could benefit from exploring initiatives to enhance public transportation, expand ride-sharing options, and improve coordination between healthcare providers and transportation services to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents.