35764, Paint Rock, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35764, Paint Rock, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.12 percent of residents in 35764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crestwood Medical Center with a distance of 13.93 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35764

This assessment delves into the healthcare accessibility landscape for residents of ZIP Code 35764, encompassing the Paint Rock community. It considers various transportation modalities, evaluating their impact on overall health and well-being. The analysis aims to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score,' reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical services. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Paint Rock, offering insights into the practicalities of healthcare access.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to connect residents with necessary medical care. In Paint Rock, this connection hinges on the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The score will weigh factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access within this specific geographical area.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

For many residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries for travel in and out of Paint Rock are Highway 72 and Highway 231. The drive times to the nearest healthcare providers are crucial determinants of healthcare access. Huntsville Hospital, a major regional medical center, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via Highway 72, depending on traffic. This drive time can be significantly impacted by rush hour congestion, particularly in the morning and evening.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are scattered throughout the surrounding towns, offering potentially shorter drive times. The specifics vary depending on the destination, but the availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance is a key factor in determining the overall health score. The condition of roads and the presence of traffic signals also influence travel times. The quality of the roads, and the potential for delays, are also factored into the assessment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the Paint Rock area are extremely limited. The Madison County Transit System (MCTS) provides some bus routes throughout Madison County, but the coverage in Paint Rock and the surrounding rural areas is minimal. The MCTS routes that might serve the area are infrequent, and the travel times can be significantly longer than driving.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on the buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. The reliability of the public transit system, the frequency of service, and the overall convenience of the routes are all factors that contribute to the overall health score. The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Huntsville area, but their presence in Paint Rock is less consistent. The availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive themselves. Several companies offer NEMT services in the area, including, but not limited to, First Choice Medical Transportation and American Medical Response (AMR). The availability, cost, and efficiency of these services contribute to the overall health score.

**Factors Impacting the Overall Health Score**

Several factors contribute to the overall health score for healthcare access in Paint Rock. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary consideration. The availability and reliability of public transportation, although limited, also play a role. The presence and cost of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport are also critical. The socioeconomic status of the residents, and their ability to afford transportation, is also considered.

The geographic location of healthcare providers and the availability of specialized medical services, such as mental health care or dental care, are also important. The overall health score will reflect the combined impact of these factors, providing a holistic assessment of healthcare accessibility.

**Implications for Moving to Paint Rock**

For individuals considering moving to Paint Rock, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation is a significant factor. The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing services should be carefully considered. The availability of specialized medical transport may be a necessity for some individuals.

Prospective residents should research the location of healthcare providers, the drive times, and the availability of transportation options that meet their individual needs. Careful consideration of these factors will help ensure that the decision to move to Paint Rock aligns with their healthcare requirements.

**The Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35764 is a complex calculation, considering the multiple factors outlined above. The score will be a reflection of the challenges and opportunities for residents to access the healthcare services they need. The score will be a useful tool for individuals, community leaders, and healthcare providers, providing a snapshot of the current situation and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

This analysis emphasizes the critical link between transportation and healthcare access, particularly in a rural setting like Paint Rock. By understanding the transportation options available, residents can better navigate the healthcare system and prioritize their health and well-being. The overall health score is a dynamic measure that can be used to track progress and identify areas for improvement in the community.