36345, Headland, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36345, Headland, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.50 percent of residents in 36345 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeast Health Medical Center with a distance of 9.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36345 (Headland, Alabama)

The well-being of a community is intricately woven with its access to healthcare. For residents of Headland, Alabama (ZIP Code 36345), this vital connection is shaped by the geography of the Wiregrass region and the available transportation options. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, analyzing the commute to healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Headland**, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" considers several factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency and reliability of transportation options, the availability of specialized medical services, and the affordability of accessing care. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in relation to **transportation** within and surrounding Headland.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Headland's location in Henry County influences its healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers are primarily located in Dothan, approximately 15 miles to the east. This distance necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The primary route to Dothan involves traveling east on **Highway 134**, a two-lane road that often experiences moderate traffic, especially during peak hours.

The drive to Dothan's major hospitals, such as Southeast Health Medical Center, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. **Highway 84**, which intersects Highway 134 near Headland, provides an alternative route, although it may involve navigating more intersections and traffic signals. During emergencies, every minute counts, highlighting the importance of understanding these drive times.

Access to specialized medical services may require traveling further afield. For instance, specialized cancer treatment or advanced cardiac care might necessitate a trip to larger cities like Montgomery or Birmingham. These longer distances, often exceeding 100 miles, significantly impact the "Overall Health Score," particularly for individuals requiring frequent appointments or facing mobility limitations.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Headland are limited. The Wiregrass Area Transit System (WATS) provides some transportation services within the region. However, WATS’s presence in Headland is minimal, with routes and schedules that may not adequately serve the needs of residents seeking healthcare access. Information on specific routes and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is difficult to obtain. This lack of robust public **transportation** negatively affects the "Overall Health Score" for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive.

The absence of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This constraint necessitates reliance on alternative methods of accessing healthcare, potentially increasing travel time and financial burden.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in Dothan and surrounding areas. However, their availability in Headland is less consistent. The response times and pricing of ride-sharing services can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. This variability impacts the reliability of ride-sharing as a primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. Several companies operate in the Wiregrass region, providing services like ambulance transport and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are crucial for patients who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for some residents. The availability of these services and their cost-effectiveness are important considerations in the "Overall Health Score."

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Specific medical transport brands operating in the Headland area include Southeast EMS and various private ambulance services. These services provide both emergency and non-emergency transportation to healthcare facilities. The cost of these services varies depending on the distance, level of care required, and insurance coverage. Patients should research their insurance coverage and understand the associated costs before utilizing these services.

**Impact on the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of Headland (36345) is moderately impacted by the available **transportation** options. While the proximity to Dothan provides access to essential medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The variability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transport further influence the score.

The score is particularly affected for individuals with mobility limitations, those without access to a personal vehicle, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, potentially impacting health outcomes.

**Considerations for Moving to Headland:**

For individuals considering **moving to Headland**, this analysis provides valuable insights into the healthcare access landscape. Potential residents should factor in the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall well-being.

Furthermore, individuals with specific medical needs should research the availability of specialized services in the area and consider the potential need for longer travel times to access those services. Planning for healthcare access is an essential part of **moving to Headland**.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Headland (36345) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Dothan offers access to essential medical care, the limited **transportation** options present challenges. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, and affordable medical transport options would significantly enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve healthcare access for all residents. This assessment underscores the importance of considering healthcare access when evaluating the suitability of a location, especially for those contemplating **moving to Headland**.