35765, Pisgah, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35765, Pisgah, Alabama is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.04 percent of residents in 35765 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highlands Medical Center with a distance of 13.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Pisgah, Alabama (ZIP Code 35765)

The overall health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access essential services, most notably healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Pisgah, Alabama (ZIP Code 35765), focusing on the crucial aspect of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. Considering the unique geographical challenges of this rural area, we delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions to paint a comprehensive picture for prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Pisgah.

Pisgah, nestled in the northeastern corner of Alabama, presents a landscape of rolling hills and scenic vistas. However, this beauty often translates to longer travel times and limited options for transportation, especially when it comes to accessing healthcare facilities. The "Overall Health Score" for this ZIP code will reflect these realities, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents seeking medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Healthcare Access**

For most Pisgah residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to various healthcare providers is crucial. The major thoroughfare serving the area is **Alabama Highway 75**, which runs north-south through Pisgah. Driving south on Highway 75 provides access to the city of Fort Payne, the closest hub for comprehensive medical services. Expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes to reach **Dekalb Regional Medical Center**, the primary hospital in the region.

Further travel south on Highway 75 leads to **Interstate 59**, a vital artery connecting Pisgah to larger metropolitan areas like Birmingham and Chattanooga. This is critical because it links residents to specialized care. However, the drive to Birmingham, home to major medical centers like the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic. Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers another option, with a drive time of approximately 1.5 hours.

East-west travel is primarily facilitated by **Alabama Highway 117**. This road offers access to the town of Trenton, Georgia, and connects to **Interstate 24** in Tennessee. The drive to healthcare facilities in this direction is less common, but it provides an alternative route to Chattanooga and other regional healthcare providers.

The condition of these roadways, especially Highway 75, is a factor. While generally well-maintained, weather events, such as heavy rain or snow, can impact travel times and accessibility. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the potential for these disruptions, emphasizing the need for residents to be prepared for unexpected delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public transit options in Pisgah are limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive bus system like those found in larger cities. However, there is a demand-response transportation service provided by the **Dekalb County Commission**. This service, often referred to as "dial-a-ride," requires advance booking and operates on a limited schedule. It primarily caters to seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial factor in assessing the "Overall Health Score." The Dekalb County Commission's service does offer vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited service area and schedule can pose challenges for those needing regular medical appointments.

The lack of robust public transit options necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions, which can significantly impact the "Overall Health Score" for those without access to a car. The success of the "dial-a-ride" program hinges on its ability to meet the needs of the community, but its limited scope underscores the transportation challenges faced by many Pisgah residents.

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

The rise of ride-sharing services has offered another layer of transportation options. While services like Uber and Lyft are available in the broader region, their presence in Pisgah itself is less consistent. Availability often depends on driver availability and demand. Therefore, ride-sharing should not be considered a reliable means of transportation for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring non-emergency medical transportation, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves.

Medical transport services can be a valuable resource, particularly for those without access to personal vehicles or reliable public transit. However, these services come at a cost, and the "Overall Health Score" must consider the financial burden associated with accessing these options. The availability of insurance coverage for medical transportation is a critical factor in determining affordability.

**The "Overall Health Score" and the Decision to Move to Pisgah**

The "Overall Health Score" for Pisgah, Alabama (ZIP Code 35765) reflects a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. While the area offers a close-knit community and access to beautiful natural surroundings, healthcare access is significantly impacted by transportation limitations.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the longer drive times to specialized medical facilities are key considerations. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the picture. While medical transport services provide a viable solution, their cost can be a barrier for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Pisgah, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those with chronic health conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare providers. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a guide, highlighting the factors that contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community.

The "Overall Health Score" for Pisgah, Alabama (ZIP Code 35765) is a dynamic measure, influenced by factors beyond transportation. The availability of healthcare providers, the quality of medical care, and the overall health of the community all contribute to the final assessment. However, the transportation element remains a critical component, shaping the ability of residents to access the care they need and ultimately influencing their overall health and well-being. The score serves as a call to action, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand access to healthcare services for all residents of Pisgah.