36052, Mathews, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36052, Mathews, Alabama is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.35 percent of residents in 36052 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center South with a distance of 14.78 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36052

Living in Mathews, Alabama (ZIP Code 36052), offers a unique blend of rural charm and proximity to the state capital, Montgomery. However, when considering overall health, a crucial factor is **healthcare access**, and specifically, the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents, considering various modes of travel and their impact on accessing healthcare. The score reflects the challenges and advantages faced by individuals seeking medical care within and beyond the 36052 ZIP code.

The geographical reality of Mathews significantly influences healthcare access. Situated in a primarily rural area, residents often rely on personal vehicles for **transportation**. The primary arteries connecting Mathews to healthcare services are US Highway 80 and Alabama Highway 110. US 80, a major east-west route, provides access to Montgomery, where the majority of specialized medical facilities are located. Alabama 110 offers a more direct route to the east, potentially connecting to smaller clinics and practices in neighboring communities.

Drive times are a critical component of the health score. Traveling to Montgomery, approximately 20 miles west, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This journey is primarily on US 80. While the drive is generally straightforward, potential delays due to accidents or construction can significantly impact **healthcare access**, especially in emergencies. Shorter trips to local clinics or urgent care facilities might be possible, but specialized care often necessitates the longer commute to Montgomery.

Public **transportation** options within the 36052 ZIP code are limited. The City of Montgomery operates a public bus system, but its reach into Mathews is minimal. The routes that do extend towards the outskirts of the city do not directly serve Mathews, requiring a potentially lengthy and inconvenient transfer. This lack of robust public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly seniors, those with disabilities, or those unable to drive. The absence of frequent, reliable public **transportation** negatively impacts the overall health score.

Considering the needs of individuals with disabilities, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of the limited public transit options is essential. While the City of Montgomery's bus system strives for ADA compliance, including wheelchair accessibility, the infrequency of service and the distance from Mathews to the nearest bus stops presents a major challenge. This lack of accessible **transportation** further diminishes the health score for a vulnerable segment of the population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Montgomery area. However, their availability in Mathews itself can be variable. The distance from Montgomery and the lower population density of Mathews might result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares. While ride-sharing offers a viable alternative to driving, it is not a guaranteed solution and might be financially prohibitive for some residents. This uncertainty impacts the overall health score, particularly for those without access to personal vehicles.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers, offer a specialized option for individuals requiring assistance. Several NEMT providers operate in the Montgomery area, offering transportation to and from medical appointments. These services typically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, the cost of NEMT services can be substantial, and availability might be limited, especially for short-notice appointments. This cost and potential availability constraints negatively affect the overall health score.

The availability of ambulance services is crucial in emergency situations. The 36052 ZIP code is served by local emergency medical services (EMS), ensuring timely response to medical emergencies. However, the response time can be affected by the rural nature of the area and the distance to the nearest hospitals. This aspect, while critical, is considered separately from the regular commute to healthcare facilities.

The overall health score for residents of 36052 is moderately impacted by **transportation** challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to **healthcare access**. While emergency services are available, the regular commute to specialized medical care in Montgomery presents a significant time commitment.

The score reflects the need for careful consideration when **moving to Mathews**, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those who rely on public **transportation**. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services are crucial factors. The potential for longer drive times to access specialized care also impacts the score.

To improve the health score, several measures could be implemented. Expanding public **transportation** routes to include Mathews would significantly enhance **healthcare access** for a broader population. Subsidizing ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services for low-income residents could alleviate financial barriers. Promoting telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

The overall health score for 36052 is not inherently negative. The proximity to Montgomery offers access to a wide range of medical facilities. However, the challenges associated with **transportation** necessitate careful planning and consideration. The score highlights the importance of understanding the **healthcare access** landscape when **moving to Mathews**, ensuring that residents can effectively manage their health needs. The score underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** options and support systems, thereby enhancing the overall health and well-being of the community. The health score is a dynamic measure, constantly evolving with improvements in infrastructure, services, and community initiatives.