35961, Collinsville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35961, Collinsville, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.90 percent of residents in 35961 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dekalb Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35961

Zip code 35961, encompassing the charming town of Collinsville, Alabama, presents a unique tapestry of healthcare access challenges and opportunities. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this rural community faces limitations common to areas with lower population density. However, the resilience of its residents and the evolving landscape of transportation and healthcare options offer a nuanced picture of overall health accessibility. This analysis delves into the specifics of commuting to healthcare, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services.

The primary factor influencing the health score is the time required to reach essential medical facilities. The nearest significant hospital, Dekalb Regional Medical Center, is located in Fort Payne, approximately 15-20 miles from Collinsville. The journey typically involves navigating **Highway 75** south and then connecting to **Highway 117**. Under ideal conditions, the drive takes roughly 25-35 minutes. However, traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can significantly extend this time.

Specialist care often necessitates travel to larger cities like Gadsden or Huntsville. Gadsden, approximately 45 miles away, requires a drive primarily on **Highway 75** south and then **Highway 431**. This commute can take between 50 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Huntsville, approximately 75 miles away, demands a longer journey, utilizing **Highway 75** south, then **Highway 278** east, and finally connecting to **Highway 431** north. This drive could easily take one and a half to two hours. These extended travel times can create barriers to timely care, especially for those with chronic conditions or needing urgent medical attention.

Public transportation options in 35961 are limited. DeKalb County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There is no fixed-route bus service that directly connects Collinsville to Fort Payne or other healthcare hubs. This absence significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities. The lack of public transit is a major detriment to the overall health score.

Addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities is crucial. The absence of public transit with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features further exacerbates the challenges. For individuals with mobility impairments, accessing healthcare becomes even more difficult, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments. This underscores the critical need for alternative transportation solutions within the community.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability is inconsistent. The frequency of ride-share services is lower in rural areas compared to urban centers. This means that securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments requiring early morning or late-night transport, can be unreliable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for some residents, potentially limiting their access to care.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services, often used for scheduled appointments, dialysis, or physical therapy, typically require advance booking. The cost of NEMT varies depending on the distance and the specific needs of the patient. While offering a valuable service, the availability and cost of NEMT can still pose challenges for some residents.

Several medical transport brands serve the area. Companies like MedTrans and First Choice Medical Transportation offer services to transport patients to medical appointments. These companies provide door-to-door service, assisting patients with mobility challenges. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier to access for some, particularly those with limited financial resources.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 35961 is impacted by a combination of factors. The primary challenge is the distance to healthcare facilities and the reliance on personal vehicles. The lack of public transportation and the inconsistent availability of ride-share services further complicate access. While medical transport services offer a solution, the cost can be prohibitive.

For individuals considering moving to Collinsville, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in the travel time to medical appointments, the potential need for specialized transportation services, and the associated costs. Careful consideration of these factors will help ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively.

The local community and healthcare providers are actively seeking solutions to improve healthcare access. Initiatives to promote telehealth, expanding access to primary care clinics, and exploring partnerships with transportation providers could enhance the overall health score. Community engagement and advocacy are essential to addressing these challenges and improving the health and well-being of Collinsville residents.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 35961 is moderately low, due to the rural nature of the area. The long travel times, lack of public transit, and reliance on personal vehicles pose significant challenges. However, the availability of medical transport services and the potential for telehealth initiatives offer some avenues for improvement. The future of healthcare access in Collinsville hinges on collaborative efforts to address transportation barriers and expand access to care.