35954, Attalla, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35954, Attalla, Alabama is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.12 percent of residents in 35954 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 5.57 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35954 (Attalla, Alabama)

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially in a community like Attalla, Alabama (ZIP Code 35954). This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare accessibility. The goal is to give potential residents a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation network when it comes to reaching medical facilities.

Attalla, nestled in Etowah County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The city is bordered by the Coosa River and is a gateway to the Appalachian foothills. This geographical context significantly influences the options available for **transportation** to and from healthcare providers. The "Overall Health Score" considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries serving Attalla are Interstate 59 (I-59) and U.S. Highway 411. Access to healthcare facilities is heavily reliant on these roadways. Gadsden Regional Medical Center, the closest major hospital, is approximately a 10- to 15-minute drive via I-59 South. This is a relatively short commute, offering good **healthcare access** for those with personal vehicles.

However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact these drive times. Accidents on I-59, which are not uncommon, can significantly extend travel durations, potentially delaying critical medical care. Smaller clinics and physician offices within Attalla are generally accessible within a 5- to 10-minute drive, providing convenient local options for routine appointments.

Traveling to specialty care providers, such as those located in Birmingham (approximately 60 miles southwest), requires a longer commute. This journey, primarily via I-59, can take up to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. This distance poses a challenge for individuals needing specialized treatment or regular appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit in Attalla is limited. The Etowah County Transit Authority (ECTA) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules are not designed to prioritize healthcare access. While ECTA does serve some areas of Attalla, the frequency of service and route coverage are limited.

The ECTA website does not explicitly detail routes that directly serve major medical facilities. The lack of frequent, direct routes to hospitals and clinics significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score" for those without personal vehicles. Furthermore, information regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features on ECTA buses is available on their website, but the limited service itself restricts its usefulness.

The current public transit infrastructure does not adequately address the needs of individuals requiring reliable and timely access to healthcare. This deficiency presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and individuals who cannot afford a car.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Attalla. However, their availability and reliability can vary. The response times for these services may be longer than in larger metropolitan areas. 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, are available in the area. These services are essential for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. The cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including local ambulance services and regional NEMT providers. However, the availability of these services and their coverage areas should be carefully investigated. The "Overall Health Score" is impacted by the cost and availability of these services, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35954 is moderately impacted by the transportation infrastructure. The proximity of Gadsden Regional Medical Center offers a significant advantage. However, the limitations of public transit, the variability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of specialized medical transport services present considerable challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Attalla**, a comprehensive assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those reliant on public transit or ride-sharing should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing necessary medical care.

Recommendations for improving the "Overall Health Score" include:

* **Expanding Public Transit:** Advocate for increased ECTA service, including direct routes to medical facilities and extended operating hours.
* **Improving Ride-Sharing Availability:** Encourage ride-sharing companies to increase their presence and reliability in Attalla.
* **Promoting Medical Transport Awareness:** Provide information and resources regarding available medical transport services and insurance coverage options.
* **Supporting Community Partnerships:** Facilitate collaborations between healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations to improve healthcare access.

By addressing these issues, Attalla can enhance its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to essential healthcare services. This is crucial for fostering a healthy and thriving community. The existing infrastructure presents challenges, but with proactive planning and community involvement, Attalla can improve its healthcare accessibility and quality of life.