35978, Henagar, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 35978, Henagar, Alabama is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.02 percent of residents in 35978 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dekalb Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35978 (Henagar, Alabama)

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially when choosing a new community. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 35978 (Henagar, Alabama), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities via various modes of transportation. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in this rural area. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering moving to Henagar, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The foundation of healthcare access in Henagar rests on private vehicle transportation. The primary roadways impacting commute times are **Highway 75**, which runs north-south, and **Highway 40**, traversing east-west. These highways are essential for accessing larger towns and cities with more comprehensive healthcare services. The drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day.

For routine appointments and general medical needs, residents often rely on local clinics and family practices. These facilities are generally accessible within a 15-30 minute drive, primarily along **Highway 75** or local roads connecting to it. However, for specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, residents typically need to travel to larger hospitals located in nearby cities like Fort Payne or Gadsden.

The drive to Fort Payne, approximately 15-20 minutes away, is usually a straightforward journey along **Highway 75**. Gadsden, about an hour's drive via **Highway 75** and **Highway 431**, offers a more extensive range of specialist services. The travel time to Birmingham, the largest city in the region with major medical centers, can be up to two hours via **Highway 75** and **Interstate 59**, making it a significant consideration for those requiring complex or emergency care.

Public transportation options in Henagar are extremely limited, posing a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. There is no formal public bus system operating directly within the ZIP code. The absence of public transit severely limits the mobility of individuals who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive. This lack of options underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable populations in Henagar.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for scheduled medical appointments or urgent care needs. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden for some residents, further exacerbating healthcare access disparities.

Medical transport services offer a critical lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency and emergency transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, including ambulance services and private medical transport companies, are essential for ensuring that individuals can access the care they need, especially in situations where mobility is severely limited.

The availability of medical transport, however, can be subject to factors such as insurance coverage, the severity of the medical condition, and the availability of resources. Therefore, while medical transport services provide a crucial safety net, they are not a guaranteed solution for all transportation needs.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35978 is moderate, with strengths and weaknesses. The primary strength is the relatively short drive times to local clinics and family practices, allowing for routine medical care to be accessed without excessive travel. The availability of medical transport services also provides a crucial safety net for individuals with limited mobility.

However, the weaknesses are significant. The lack of public transportation and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create substantial barriers for individuals without personal vehicles. The longer drive times to specialized medical facilities and major hospitals in larger cities pose challenges for those requiring complex or emergency care. The overall score is also impacted by the financial burden of transportation costs, especially for those relying on ride-sharing or medical transport services.

For individuals considering moving to Henagar, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully evaluate the challenges they may face in accessing healthcare. Understanding the limitations of transportation options and the potential costs associated with accessing care is crucial for making an informed decision about moving to this community.

The score is further influenced by the availability of ADA-accessible transportation options. While medical transport services often provide ADA-compliant vehicles, the lack of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges for individuals with disabilities. This highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents of Henagar.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 35978 reflects a mixed picture. While local healthcare facilities are relatively accessible, the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care facilities pose significant challenges. Individuals considering moving to Henagar should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements to determine if this community meets their needs. This assessment is crucial for ensuring that residents can access the timely and appropriate medical care they deserve, regardless of their transportation capabilities. The future of healthcare access in Henagar hinges on addressing the transportation challenges and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives.