35756, Madison, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35756, Madison, Alabama is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.08 percent of residents in 35756 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Huntsville Hospital with a distance of 12.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35756

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 35756, focusing on the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically the ease of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access for individuals considering moving to Madison, Alabama, and residing within this specific ZIP code.

ZIP code 35756 encompasses the city of Madison, a rapidly growing community in northern Alabama. The health score is calculated based on drive times, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, and the presence of alternative transportation options. Factors such as traffic congestion, road quality, and the availability of ADA-compliant services are also considered.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 35756 is the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfares, including **Interstate 565**, **Highway 72**, and **Madison Boulevard**, are crucial for navigating the area. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by traffic patterns, especially during peak hours.

For example, a trip from the central part of 35756 to Huntsville Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or more, particularly along I-565.

Access to urgent care facilities, such as those located along Madison Boulevard, is generally more convenient, with drive times typically ranging from 5 to 10 minutes. However, the location of specialized clinics and hospitals, such as those offering oncology or cardiology services, may necessitate longer commutes, potentially requiring travel to Huntsville.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. While major highways are generally well-maintained, local roads may experience potholes or other issues that can impact travel times and vehicle safety. Therefore, residents should factor in potential delays when planning their healthcare appointments.

**Public Transportation Assessment:**

Public transportation options in Madison are limited, which presents a significant challenge for residents who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. The **Huntsville Transit** system provides bus services, but the routes and frequency within 35756 are not extensive.

Route 10, for instance, offers service along Madison Boulevard, connecting to some commercial areas, but its reach to healthcare facilities is limited. The frequency of these routes may not be ideal for medical appointments, often requiring long wait times.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Huntsville Transit does offer accessible vehicles, but the overall accessibility of the system, including the availability of accessible stops and shelters, needs further improvement.

The lack of robust public transit infrastructure necessitates reliance on other transportation options, especially for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford a personal vehicle. This limited public transit infrastructure impacts the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the area and provide an alternative transportation option. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services also fluctuates, depending on the time of day and the demand. During peak hours or in areas with lower population density, wait times can be longer, which can be problematic for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services, such as **Care Ride** and **FirstCall Medical Transportation**, cater specifically to individuals requiring transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and assistance with mobility needs. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which may not always be feasible.

The availability and affordability of these alternative transportation options significantly impact healthcare access for residents of 35756. While they provide valuable alternatives, their limitations and costs can create challenges for some individuals.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed above, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 35756 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges.

Drive times are generally reasonable, but traffic congestion can impact commute times. The limited public transportation options restrict access for those without personal vehicles. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide alternatives, but their costs and availability can be a barrier for some.

To improve the health score, several recommendations are offered. First, increasing the frequency and expanding the reach of public transportation routes, especially those connecting residential areas with healthcare facilities, is essential. Enhancing the accessibility of public transit, including the availability of ADA-compliant services, is also crucial.

Second, promoting the use of ride-sharing services by offering subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could help make these services more affordable. Third, expanding the availability of medical transport services and ensuring that these services are accessible to all residents, regardless of their income or mobility limitations, is vital.

Finally, encouraging the development of more healthcare facilities within the 35756 ZIP code, including specialized clinics and urgent care centers, would reduce drive times and improve healthcare access. This would be particularly beneficial for residents considering moving to Madison.

By addressing these recommendations, the community can significantly improve the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 35756, ensuring that all residents have timely and affordable access to the medical care they need.