35973, Gaylesville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35973, Gaylesville, Alabama is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.88 percent of residents in 35973 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dekalb Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35973 (Gaylesville, Alabama)

The overall health score for residents of Gaylesville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35973), reflects a complex interplay of factors. This analysis focuses on a critical determinant of well-being: **healthcare access**. Specifically, it examines the **transportation** landscape that connects residents to vital medical services, highlighting the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the region. The score, therefore, considers the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach healthcare providers, impacting everything from preventative care to emergency response. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive overview for anyone **moving to Gaylesville**, offering insights into the practical realities of accessing medical care.

The primary challenge for 35973 residents lies in its rural location. Gaylesville is nestled in Cherokee County, a region characterized by sprawling landscapes and limited public **transportation** options. The availability of timely and reliable access to healthcare is therefore heavily reliant on personal vehicles. The surrounding topography, with its rolling hills and winding roads, further complicates matters, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of accidents.

The primary routes for accessing healthcare from Gaylesville are primarily by car. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating Alabama Highway 9, which serves as the main artery connecting Gaylesville to the north and south. This route offers access to the city of Centre, the county seat, and the nearby towns of Cedar Bluff and Leesburg. However, traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Further afield, access to more specialized care often necessitates travel on US Highway 411, a major north-south corridor.

For those seeking more comprehensive medical facilities, the drive to Rome, Georgia, is a common destination. This involves taking Alabama Highway 9 to Georgia Highway 20, a journey that can take up to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Rome. This extended travel time underscores the importance of planning and preparedness, especially in the event of a medical emergency.

Public **transportation** options in 35973 are extremely limited. Cherokee County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There is no established bus route network serving Gaylesville. This absence significantly disadvantages those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of **ADA** (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features further exacerbates this challenge, making it difficult for individuals with mobility impairments to access even the limited **transportation** options that may exist.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in a rural setting. Response times may be extended, and the cost can be prohibitive for some residents. While these services offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles, they are not a guaranteed solution for accessing healthcare, especially for urgent medical needs.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers, play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. Cherokee County has ambulance services that are available to respond to emergencies. However, the response time can be affected by the distance and the location of the emergency. NEMT services, which provide **transportation** for non-emergency medical appointments, are also available, but their availability and cost can vary. These services are particularly important for individuals who are unable to drive themselves to appointments due to medical conditions or other limitations.

The geographical isolation of Gaylesville also presents challenges for healthcare providers. Recruiting and retaining medical professionals in rural areas can be difficult, leading to a shortage of doctors, specialists, and other healthcare personnel. This shortage can result in longer wait times for appointments and limited access to specialized care. The lack of local healthcare facilities necessitates travel to more distant locations, further compounding the **transportation** challenges.

The overall health score for 35973 is therefore significantly influenced by the limitations in **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. These barriers can lead to delayed care, missed appointments, and poorer health outcomes.

The score is also impacted by the financial burden associated with healthcare **transportation**. The cost of gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees can add up, placing a strain on household budgets. This financial burden can further limit access to care, particularly for low-income residents.

The presence of healthcare facilities within the surrounding area does offer some mitigating factors. Centre, the county seat, provides access to a hospital, physician offices, and other healthcare services. However, the availability of specialized care may still require travel to larger cities such as Rome, Georgia, or Gadsden, Alabama, further impacting the overall health score.

For individuals **moving to Gaylesville**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** options is essential. Understanding the distance to healthcare providers, the availability of **transportation** services, and the potential costs associated with accessing care is crucial for making informed decisions. Exploring options for carpooling, forming community support networks, and advocating for improved public **transportation** services can help mitigate the challenges associated with healthcare access in this rural setting.

The overall health score for 35973 is a reflection of the complex interplay between geographical location, **transportation** infrastructure, and healthcare resources. While the community faces significant challenges, proactive planning, community engagement, and a commitment to improving healthcare access can contribute to a healthier future for the residents of Gaylesville. The score, therefore, is not static but rather a dynamic indicator of the community's ability to overcome the barriers to healthcare access and promote the well-being of its residents. The journey to improved healthcare **access** in Gaylesville is ongoing, requiring a collaborative effort from residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.