36205, Anniston, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36205, Anniston, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.95 percent of residents in 36205 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeast Alabama Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36205

This comprehensive analysis evaluates the ease with which residents of Anniston, Alabama (ZIP Code 36205) can access healthcare, factoring in transportation options, travel times, and the availability of various services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Anniston or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare access landscape. We will explore the existing infrastructure, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses, to provide a clear "Overall Health Score" assessment.

The foundation of this analysis rests on the understanding that timely and reliable transportation is paramount to healthcare access. In Anniston, a city in Calhoun County, this is especially critical, as the area's geography and socioeconomic factors can influence mobility. We will consider the primary modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each element contributes to the overall score, reflecting the practicality and efficiency of reaching medical facilities.

**Personal Vehicle Accessibility & Drive Times**

The primary mode of transportation in Anniston is the personal vehicle. Residents in 36205 rely heavily on driving to access healthcare. This is due to the limited public transportation options, which we will explore later. The major thoroughfare for accessing healthcare facilities is **US Highway 431**, which runs north-south through the city and provides access to several medical centers.

Drive times vary depending on the specific location within the ZIP Code and the destination. For example, someone residing in the northern part of 36205 might experience a slightly longer drive to the primary healthcare hub, **Regional Medical Center (RMC)**, located on East 18th Street. This journey often involves navigating through city streets and potentially encountering traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Conversely, residents in the southern portion of 36205 may find a shorter drive to RMC or other clinics located closer to the southern edge of the city. The availability of multiple routes, including access via **AL Highway 202** and various local roads, provides some flexibility in navigating to healthcare appointments. However, the dependence on personal vehicles highlights the need for residents to have access to a car or rely on others for transportation.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Anniston are significantly limited, presenting a substantial challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider is the **Anniston Transit Authority (ATA)**. The ATA operates a bus system with a limited number of routes, and the frequency of service is often infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends.

The ATA routes serving 36205 may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities, necessitating transfers or long walks. Furthermore, the ATA's website does not explicitly detail ADA accessibility features for each route, making it difficult for individuals with disabilities to plan their journeys. This lack of comprehensive information and limited service frequency negatively impacts the "Overall Health Score" for those relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Anniston, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. This unreliability can pose a significant challenge for individuals needing to schedule appointments or require urgent medical care.

Medical transport services, such as **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local ambulance services, are available for individuals requiring specialized transportation due to medical conditions. These services are typically reserved for emergencies or scheduled appointments, and the cost can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

**Healthcare Facilities and Their Accessibility**

The primary healthcare provider in Anniston is **Regional Medical Center (RMC)**. RMC offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, and specialized medical care. The hospital is located in a central location, making it relatively accessible by car for most residents.

Other healthcare facilities in the area include clinics, physician offices, and specialized care centers. The accessibility of these facilities varies depending on their location and the transportation options available to residents. Some clinics are located within walking distance of bus routes, while others require a car or ride-sharing service.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in 36205 is moderately impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options. While the presence of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides alternatives, their availability and cost can be significant barriers for some residents.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are generally reasonable for those with personal vehicles, but the lack of reliable public transit and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services create challenges for those without access to a car. The "Overall Health Score" is further impacted by the need for residents to plan their healthcare journeys carefully, taking into account the limited service hours of public transit and the potential for delays with ride-sharing services.

**Recommendations**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance healthcare access in 36205, several improvements are recommended. Investing in the Anniston Transit Authority (ATA) to expand its routes, increase service frequency, and provide clear information on ADA accessibility features would significantly benefit residents.

Promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could also improve access. Offering subsidized ride-sharing options for patients with limited mobility or financial constraints could help alleviate transportation barriers.

Finally, raising awareness about the availability of medical transport services and ensuring that these services are accessible and affordable for all residents is crucial. These improvements would not only enhance healthcare access but also contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community for those considering moving to Anniston.