36035, Goshen, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36035, Goshen, Alabama is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.29 percent of residents in 36035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crenshaw Community Hospital with a distance of 8.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36035

Welcome to Goshen, Alabama, a community nestled in the heart of Pike County. For those considering a move, understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This report provides an 'Overall Health Score' for residents of ZIP code 36035, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We'll delve into the specifics of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive overview to inform your decision-making process.

The 'Overall Health Score' is a multifaceted assessment. It considers the availability and convenience of transportation options, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the potential challenges faced by residents in accessing medical care. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score highlights potential barriers. This score is not a static number, but a dynamic reflection of the realities of healthcare access within this specific geographic area.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Highways and Byways**

The primary mode of transportation in and around Goshen is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to various healthcare providers is crucial. Residents can typically reach Troy, the county seat, within a reasonable timeframe. Accessing healthcare in Troy involves navigating several roads. From Goshen, you'll likely utilize County Road 331, transitioning onto US Highway 29. This route offers a relatively direct path to Troy Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital for the region. Expect a drive time of approximately 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Further afield, Montgomery, Alabama, offers a wider array of specialized medical services. The journey to Montgomery, a larger metropolitan area, requires a longer commute. The most direct route involves taking US Highway 29 North, connecting to the I-85 North. This drive typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Montgomery. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments. The condition of the roads, while generally good, can be affected by inclement weather, potentially increasing travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Pike County are limited. This reality significantly impacts the 'Overall Health Score' for those without personal vehicles. Currently, there is no established public bus system serving Goshen or the surrounding areas. This lack of public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of a reliable public transportation network can create a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for routine appointments and preventative care.

While there is no formal public transit system, some organizations and agencies may offer transportation assistance to eligible individuals. These services are often targeted towards specific populations, such as seniors or those with disabilities. Investigating these programs is essential for those who rely on alternative transportation methods. Contacting the Pike County Department of Human Resources or local senior centers could provide valuable information regarding available transportation assistance programs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Options**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in Goshen and the surrounding areas is not guaranteed. Ride-sharing services may be limited, and wait times could be extended, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural locations. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is, therefore, not always feasible.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments. These services typically provide transportation in vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Several medical transport providers may operate in the area, including private ambulance services, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies, and specialized transportation providers. Researching these providers and understanding their service areas, pricing, and availability is crucial. Contacting local healthcare providers or the Pike County Health Department can provide information on recommended medical transport services.

**ADA Accessibility: Ensuring Inclusivity**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and public spaces. While the lack of a formal public transit system in Goshen presents challenges, it is important to consider ADA accessibility when evaluating other transportation options. Ride-sharing services are required to comply with ADA regulations, offering accessible vehicles upon request. Medical transport services are also expected to provide accessible vehicles.

When considering healthcare facilities, it is crucial to assess their ADA compliance. This includes ensuring accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and examination rooms. Contacting the healthcare provider beforehand to inquire about their accessibility features is recommended.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The 'Overall Health Score' is also influenced by the proximity and availability of healthcare facilities. Troy Regional Medical Center serves as the primary hospital for the region, offering a range of medical services. Several clinics and physician offices are also located in Troy, providing primary care and specialized services.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Montgomery or other larger cities. This underscores the importance of understanding the transportation options and drive times associated with accessing these facilities. The availability of specialists, the wait times for appointments, and the insurance coverage accepted by different providers are all crucial factors to consider.

**Moving to Goshen: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Goshen offers a unique opportunity to embrace a slower pace of life. However, when considering healthcare access, a balanced perspective is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing require careful consideration.

Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the transportation options and drive times to healthcare facilities. Planning for potential delays, exploring medical transport services, and researching the accessibility of healthcare providers are crucial steps.

The 'Overall Health Score' for 36035 reflects the realities of healthcare access in this specific area. While the community offers a welcoming environment, the accessibility of healthcare is influenced by the available transportation infrastructure. Careful planning and proactive research are essential for ensuring access to quality medical care for all residents. This assessment provides a foundation for informed decision-making, empowering potential residents to make the best choice for their individual needs.