35967, Fort Payne, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35967, Fort Payne, Alabama is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.93 percent of residents in 35967 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dekalb Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35967

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Fort Payne, Alabama, (ZIP Code 35967) offers a tranquil lifestyle, drawing individuals and families seeking a slower pace. However, when assessing overall health, proximity to quality healthcare is paramount. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of 35967, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Fort Payne.

The primary challenge for residents in 35967 is its relative isolation. While the community boasts a charming atmosphere, the availability of specialized medical services is limited within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel, often by car, to access a broader range of healthcare providers and facilities. The "Overall Health Score" will therefore weigh heavily on the efficiency and accessibility of transportation options.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in 35967 is personal vehicle. The primary roadways serving the area are US Highway 11 and Alabama Highway 35. US-11, a major north-south artery, offers relatively direct access to healthcare facilities in Gadsden, approximately 30 miles south. Driving time to Gadsden Regional Medical Center, a key regional hospital, typically ranges from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Alabama Highway 35 provides an alternative route, particularly for those living in the eastern portions of 35967. However, this road is often more winding and may experience slower travel times. Accessing healthcare in Chattanooga, Tennessee, approximately 80 miles northeast, is also an option, requiring travel on US-11 and then Interstate 24. This journey can take upwards of two hours, making it less convenient for routine appointments.

The condition of roadways, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Winter weather, including snow and ice, can make driving conditions hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare. The "Overall Health Score" must therefore account for these seasonal challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in 35967 is extremely limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Northeast Alabama Public Transportation (NEAPT) provides some service, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Information regarding specific routes, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, and frequency of service is crucial for residents relying on public transit.

NEAPT’s routes are primarily focused on connecting smaller towns and cities within the region, and the availability of transportation to healthcare facilities is limited. This lack of comprehensive public transit significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score" for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fort Payne area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. Reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be problematic due to potential wait times, cost, and the uncertainty of availability.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance, offer a more reliable option. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region, including First Transit and Logisticare. These services often require pre-booking and may have limitations on the distance or type of medical appointments they cover. The "Overall Health Score" will consider the availability, cost, and efficiency of these medical transport options.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" for 35967 is influenced by the interplay of transportation options and the availability of healthcare services. While Fort Payne has local clinics and a small hospital, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel. This travel time, coupled with the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing, impacts the overall score.

The score will reflect the following considerations:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to major hospitals and specialty clinics in Gadsden and Chattanooga.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, routes, and ADA accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and coverage of medical transport services.
* **Healthcare Provider Density:** The concentration of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within the immediate area.

**Moving to Fort Payne: A Balanced Perspective:**

For individuals considering moving to Fort Payne, the "Overall Health Score" provides a crucial perspective. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in healthcare access must be carefully considered. Those with chronic health conditions or requiring frequent specialized care should carefully evaluate the transportation options and the potential impact on their healthcare needs.

The "Overall Health Score" for 35967 is moderate. While the community has local healthcare providers and access to major roadways, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services present challenges. Residents should carefully weigh these factors when assessing their overall health and well-being. Future improvements in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the increased availability of medical transport options could significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" for this charming community.