36013, Cecil, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36013, Cecil, Alabama is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.08 percent of residents in 36013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center East with a distance of 12.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36013

This assessment delves into the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access within ZIP Code 36013, a region encompassing the town of Cecil, Alabama. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is crucial for evaluating overall health outcomes. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking healthcare in this area. The goal is to provide a clear 'Overall Health Score' informed by the practical realities of navigating the transportation landscape.

The very act of *moving to Cecil* necessitates a keen awareness of its infrastructure. The geographic isolation of Cecil, while contributing to its charm, presents a significant hurdle when it comes to *healthcare access*. The ability to reach medical professionals, specialists, and emergency services is paramount for maintaining well-being. This write-up aims to illuminate the pathways, or lack thereof, that residents must navigate to receive the care they need.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and out of Cecil are Alabama Highway 111 and County Road 17. These roads, while providing direct access to the town, can become congested during peak hours, potentially delaying critical medical appointments or emergency responses. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in Prattville and Montgomery, both of which require a car for transport.

Driving to Prattville, the closest significant town, typically involves a journey of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route primarily utilizes Alabama Highway 14 and County Road 4. The drive to Montgomery, the county seat and home to more comprehensive medical resources, is considerably longer, averaging 30-45 minutes. This commute necessitates navigating Interstate 65 or US Highway 82, which can be subject to heavy traffic, especially during rush hour or weekend travel.

The condition of these roadways is another factor to consider. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting can pose safety risks, especially at night or during inclement weather. These conditions can exacerbate delays and increase the likelihood of accidents, further impacting *healthcare access*. Regular maintenance and improvements to these roads are vital for ensuring safe and efficient *transportation* to medical facilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reality:**

Public *transportation* options within ZIP Code 36013 are severely limited. There is no established public bus system operating directly within Cecil. The absence of readily available public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with private *transportation*. This includes the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The nearest public transit options are located in Montgomery, but accessing these services from Cecil would require a combination of *transportation* methods, such as a taxi or ride-sharing service to reach a bus stop. This multi-step process adds significant time and expense to the journey, making it a less viable option for many residents. The lack of ADA-accessible features on existing transit routes further restricts *healthcare access* for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This unreliability makes them a less dependable option for urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for those with limited financial resources.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical *transportation* providers, are available, but they are typically reserved for patients requiring specific medical assistance or those with mobility limitations. These services can be expensive and may require prior authorization from insurance providers. The availability of these services in ZIP Code 36013 is also a consideration, as response times may be affected by the distance to the nearest provider.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is a critical factor in assessing *healthcare access*. While Cecil itself may not have a hospital or comprehensive medical center, residents have access to facilities in Prattville and Montgomery. These facilities offer a range of medical services, including primary care, specialist consultations, and emergency care.

The distance to these facilities, however, can be a significant barrier, especially for those with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The lack of convenient *transportation* options can exacerbate this issue, making it difficult for residents to adhere to their prescribed treatment plans or seek timely medical attention.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the factors discussed, the 'Overall Health Score' for *healthcare access* in ZIP Code 36013 is moderate. The area's reliance on personal vehicles for *transportation* and the limited public transit options create significant challenges for many residents. The drive times to medical facilities in Prattville and Montgomery, while manageable for some, can be a burden for others, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who lack access to a car.

To improve the 'Overall Health Score' and enhance *healthcare access* for residents of Cecil, several recommendations are offered:

* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Lobby for the expansion of public transit services to include routes that directly serve Cecil, providing more affordable and accessible *transportation* options.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Explore partnerships between local healthcare providers and ride-sharing companies to offer discounted or subsidized rides for patients.
* **Support Medical Transportation Services:** Advocate for increased availability and affordability of medical *transportation* services, particularly for those with limited mobility or financial resources.
* **Invest in Road Infrastructure:** Prioritize road maintenance and improvements to ensure safe and efficient *transportation* to medical facilities.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Promote the use of telehealth services to provide remote medical consultations and reduce the need for in-person visits.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available *transportation* resources and *healthcare access* options, including eligibility criteria for assistance programs.

By implementing these recommendations, the community can work towards creating a more equitable and accessible *healthcare access* system for all residents of ZIP Code 36013, ultimately improving the overall health and well-being of the community. The decision to consider *moving to Cecil* should be made with a clear understanding of these *transportation* realities and the potential impact on *healthcare access*.