36310, Abbeville, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36310, Abbeville, Alabama is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.28 percent of residents in 36310 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Center Barbour with a distance of 22.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Abbeville, Alabama (ZIP Code 36310)

Considering a move to Abbeville, Alabama (ZIP Code 36310)? Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount for overall well-being. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating the ease with which residents can access medical services, considering various transportation options. We'll examine drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this rural community.

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite metric, factoring in drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of specialized medical transport. A higher score indicates easier access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. This analysis aims to empower prospective residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary method of transportation in Abbeville is personal vehicles. The road network, while adequate, presents some limitations. The central thoroughfare is US Highway 431, which serves as the main artery connecting Abbeville to larger towns and cities. Traveling south on US 431 offers access to Dothan, approximately 30 miles away, where more comprehensive medical facilities are located.

Accessing healthcare in Abbeville often involves travel on county roads and state highways. These roads, while generally well-maintained, may experience traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly near Dothan. Residents should anticipate potential delays when traveling for appointments or emergencies. The drive time to Dothan can vary from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

The closest healthcare facilities are likely the Abbeville Area Medical Center, a small hospital offering basic services, and the local clinics. However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to Dothan. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential travel times, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Abbeville are limited. The Wiregrass Transit Authority (WTA) provides some services in the region, but their routes and schedules may not be readily available or convenient for reaching all healthcare facilities. The WTA primarily serves the larger cities in the Wiregrass area, and its presence in Abbeville is minimal.

Individuals with disabilities should inquire about ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on WTA buses. However, given the limited service, relying solely on public transit for healthcare access is likely challenging. Prospective residents should contact the WTA directly to determine the feasibility of using their services for medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Abbeville is limited. While these services might be present, their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. Relying on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is therefore not advisable.

Medical transport services are a crucial consideration for residents with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers serve the Wiregrass region. These companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services.

Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and LifeSaver Ambulance Service are likely to provide services in the area. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Healthcare access in Abbeville is significantly impacted by the transportation infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit and ride-sharing options, presents challenges for residents. Those without reliable transportation may face difficulties in accessing timely medical care.

For individuals considering moving to Abbeville, it is crucial to assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing necessary medical services. They should also explore options like medical transport services and consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to their residence.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Abbeville (ZIP Code 36310) is moderate. The score is affected by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges in accessing ride-sharing services.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your current and future transportation needs, considering your health status and potential medical requirements.
* **Explore Medical Transport:** Research and identify medical transport providers in the area and understand their services, costs, and insurance coverage.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to your potential residence.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop an emergency plan that includes transportation options and contact information for medical transport services.
* **Community Resources:** Investigate local community resources that may offer transportation assistance to medical appointments.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Abbeville offers a peaceful lifestyle, but prospective residents must carefully consider the implications of healthcare access. While the community has a local hospital and clinics, access to specialized care often necessitates travel. Understanding the transportation landscape, including drive times, limited public transit, and the availability of medical transport, is crucial for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care. By carefully assessing their needs and planning accordingly, residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being in Abbeville.