36340, Geneva, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36340, Geneva, Alabama is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.51 percent of residents in 36340 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wiregrass Medical Center with a distance of 1.33 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Geneva, Alabama (ZIP Code 36340)

The health and well-being of a community are intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. For residents of Geneva, Alabama (ZIP Code 36340), this access is largely determined by the efficiency and availability of transportation. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport solutions. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Geneva and seeking to understand the practicalities of maintaining their health.

Geneva, a charming town nestled in the Wiregrass Region, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The town's relative isolation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles and a limited public transportation infrastructure. This reality shapes the overall health score, influencing factors such as the time commitment, cost, and accessibility of reaching medical professionals.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Geneva is the personal vehicle. The town's location, approximately 30 miles from Dothan, the nearest city with a comprehensive medical infrastructure, dictates the importance of a reliable car. The journey to Dothan typically involves navigating the highways and roads that serve the area.

A trip to Southeast Health in Dothan, the largest healthcare provider in the region, necessitates a drive primarily along US Highway 84 East. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours. The drive, under normal conditions, takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

Other healthcare options, such as specialty clinics and hospitals, might require travel along State Route 27 or State Route 52. These roads, while less trafficked than US 84, can be subject to varying road conditions and potential delays. The distance to these facilities can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the specific location.

Within Geneva itself, access to local healthcare facilities is facilitated by a network of smaller roads and streets. The proximity to a local hospital and clinics provides residents with immediate access to primary care and urgent care services. However, for specialized treatments or advanced medical care, the journey to Dothan remains a necessity.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Geneva, and indeed the entire Wiregrass Region, is extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

There is no established public bus route serving Geneva with regular service to Dothan or other healthcare facilities. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While the city may offer limited demand-response services, these options are often restricted in scope and availability. They may not be suitable for routine appointments or emergency situations. The absence of readily available public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The rise of ride-sharing services offers a potential solution for healthcare access in Geneva. However, the availability of these services is inconsistent and dependent on driver availability. Uber and Lyft operate in the Dothan area, but their presence in Geneva is less frequent.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The distance to Dothan translates to a potentially significant fare, which could strain the budgets of individuals with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the Wiregrass Region. These services typically involve scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments, offering a more reliable and accessible option than ride-sharing.

Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer NEMT services. These services often cater to individuals requiring assistance with mobility, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. The cost of these services varies depending on the distance and level of care required.

**ADA Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility for public transportation and healthcare facilities. While the lack of public transit in Geneva presents a challenge, healthcare facilities are required to provide accessible entrances, examination rooms, and other essential features.

Medical transportation services are also required to comply with ADA regulations, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist individuals with disabilities. This commitment to accessibility is a crucial factor in ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Geneva:**

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Geneva, Alabama (ZIP Code 36340), is moderate. While the town offers local healthcare facilities, access to specialized care and advanced medical services relies heavily on personal vehicles. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges for individuals without access to a car.

The primary factor affecting the overall health score is the drive time to Dothan, which can be significant. This time commitment can impact the ability to attend appointments, access emergency care, and maintain a consistent healthcare regimen.

For individuals considering moving to Geneva, it is crucial to factor in the transportation challenges. Assess the need for specialized medical care, the availability of reliable transportation, and the potential costs associated with commuting to healthcare facilities.

The availability of medical transportation services offers a valuable solution for those with mobility limitations or medical needs. Researching these services and understanding their costs and availability is essential.

The overall health score can be improved by advocating for increased public transportation options, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting initiatives that enhance access to healthcare for all residents. Understanding the current transportation landscape is key to making informed decisions about healthcare and overall well-being in Geneva.