36313, Bellwood, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36313, Bellwood, Alabama is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.71 percent of residents in 36313 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Center Enterprise with a distance of 10.43 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36313**

The health and well-being of residents in Bellwood, Alabama (ZIP code 36313) are significantly impacted by their ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the availability and accessibility of medical services, considering the crucial role of transportation. Factors such as drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport are all weighed to assess the ease with which residents can reach necessary care. This score will help inform decisions about moving to Bellwood, providing a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access.

Bellwood, a charming community, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The town's relative remoteness and reliance on personal vehicles shape the transportation dynamics. The primary arteries for navigating the area include US Highway 84 and Alabama State Route 134. These roads are essential for accessing healthcare facilities located in nearby towns like Enterprise and Daleville, as well as the regional hub of Dothan.

Drive times are a critical component of the health score. The commute to the nearest hospitals, such as Flowers Hospital in Dothan (approximately 20 miles), typically takes 30-45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this duration can fluctuate considerably depending on the time of day and any unexpected incidents. The journey to larger medical centers may be longer, adding to the stress and potential delays for those seeking urgent care.

Public transit options in Bellwood are limited, presenting a significant challenge for residents without personal vehicles. The absence of a robust public transportation system means that those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car face significant barriers to healthcare access. This is especially problematic for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability and affordability can vary. The cost of these services can be a significant burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the wait times for ride-sharing services in a rural area like Bellwood may be longer than in urban centers, potentially delaying access to care.

Medical transportation services are available, providing specialized transport for patients with mobility issues or those requiring medical assistance during transit. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) offer ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) options. These services are vital for individuals who cannot travel independently, but their cost can be substantial, and their availability may be limited.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of public transit is a critical factor. While the current public transit options in the area are limited, any existing services must adhere to ADA regulations to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This includes features like wheelchair accessibility on buses and accessible boarding and alighting.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Bellwood, Alabama (36313) is moderate. While the area is served by major roadways, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides some relief, but the cost and potential wait times can be significant barriers.

Residents of Bellwood who are considering moving to the area should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility should consider the challenges of accessing medical services. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the drive times and potential costs of transportation.

The healthcare landscape in Bellwood is evolving. Efforts to improve healthcare access, such as expanding public transit options or incentivizing ride-sharing services, could significantly improve the overall health score. Community initiatives to promote carpooling or establish volunteer driver programs could also help address transportation barriers.

The availability of healthcare facilities in nearby towns and cities is a key factor. Dothan, with its hospitals and specialized medical centers, serves as a vital resource for Bellwood residents. The presence of these facilities significantly improves the overall health score, providing access to a wider range of medical services.

The economic factors also play a role. The cost of healthcare, including transportation expenses, can be a significant burden for low-income families. The availability of financial assistance programs and community resources can help mitigate these challenges.

The overall health score reflects the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and socioeconomic factors. While Bellwood offers a welcoming community, potential residents should carefully consider the transportation challenges and healthcare resources available. The score provides a comprehensive assessment of the current situation, highlighting areas for improvement and offering insights for those considering moving to Bellwood.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Bellwood, Alabama (36313) is contingent on individual circumstances. While the area provides access to healthcare through nearby towns, the limitations in transportation options present challenges. The score is moderate, reflecting the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation needs for anyone considering moving to Bellwood. The availability of personal vehicles, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the limited public transit options are all factors that impact the overall health score.