36017, Clio, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36017, Clio, Alabama is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.32 percent of residents in 36017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dale Medical Center with a distance of 16.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clio, Alabama (ZIP Code 36017)

Clio, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Barbour County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the inherent challenges of healthcare access. Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 36017 requires a comprehensive evaluation of transportation options, considering the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the ease, or difficulty, with which Clio residents can reach the medical care they need.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Clio is the ability to travel to medical facilities. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. The limited public transit options and the absence of readily available ride-sharing services emphasize the crucial role of a car in navigating the healthcare landscape.

The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in larger towns, such as Eufaula and Dothan. Reaching these facilities requires traversing a network of highways and roads. From Clio, residents typically utilize **U.S. Highway 431** to the south, connecting to Eufaula. The drive time to Eufaula Community Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in that area, is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Clio.

To access the more comprehensive medical services available in Dothan, residents must travel further. This journey involves taking **U.S. Highway 431** south to **U.S. Highway 84** east. The drive to Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan can take between 1 hour and 1 hour and 15 minutes. These drive times highlight the significant time commitment required to reach essential medical care.

The condition of these roads, including the presence of potholes, lack of adequate lighting, and the potential for inclement weather, can further impact travel times and safety. These factors are particularly important for elderly residents or those with pre-existing medical conditions who may have difficulty navigating challenging road conditions.

Public transit options in Clio are extremely limited. Barbour County does not have a comprehensive public transportation system. There are no fixed bus routes or scheduled services within the county that specifically cater to healthcare access. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the cost of personal vehicle ownership.

The absence of public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including low-income individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities. These groups often face the greatest challenges in accessing healthcare, and the lack of transportation exacerbates these difficulties.

While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have expanded their presence in many areas, their availability in Clio is limited. The sparse population density and the rural nature of the area make it less economically viable for these companies to operate consistently. This means that residents cannot rely on ride-sharing as a dependable means of transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are available in the region, but they come with their own set of considerations. Ambulance services are primarily for emergency situations. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers offer transportation for scheduled appointments. However, these services often require advance booking, may have limited availability, and can be costly, depending on the insurance coverage.

The availability of NEMT services is crucial for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to other transportation options. These services provide a vital link to healthcare, but their accessibility and affordability can significantly impact a resident's overall health score.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available transportation options is another critical factor. While NEMT services are generally required to provide accessible vehicles, the lack of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services with accessible features pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 36017 is significantly impacted by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. The drive times to medical facilities, combined with the potential for challenging road conditions, further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Clio, or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access, these transportation factors must be carefully considered. The ability to drive or the financial capacity to afford transportation alternatives are essential for maintaining good health.

The absence of readily available public transit highlights the need for innovative solutions. Community-based transportation programs, partnerships with local healthcare providers, and the expansion of NEMT services could help bridge the gap in healthcare access. These initiatives could improve the overall health score for Clio residents and create a more equitable healthcare landscape.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Clio, the transportation infrastructure plays a crucial role in determining the health outcomes of its residents. Addressing the transportation challenges is essential for improving the overall health score and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy lives.

The future of healthcare access in Clio hinges on addressing the transportation gaps. Investing in transportation solutions, promoting community awareness, and advocating for policy changes are vital steps toward creating a healthier community for all. The challenges are significant, but the potential for positive change is even greater.