36371, Pinckard, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36371, Pinckard, Alabama is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.29 percent of residents in 36371 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Flowers Hospital with a distance of 7.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Pinckard, Alabama (ZIP Code 36371)

Pinckard, Alabama, a quaint community nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering its residents' overall health and well-being. A critical factor influencing health outcomes is **healthcare access**, particularly the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This analysis delves into the **transportation** landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 36371, providing an "Overall Health Score" assessment based on commute times, available modes of transport, and the accessibility of healthcare providers. This information is especially pertinent for those **moving to Pinckard**, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding their health needs.

The primary mode of transportation in Pinckard is the personal vehicle. The town’s layout and surrounding infrastructure heavily favor car travel. The drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore heavily reliant on the efficiency of the road network. Residents typically navigate via **Highway 134**, the main artery running through Pinckard. This road connects to **Highway 84**, a major east-west route, and **Highway 27**, which provides access to Dothan and other regional centers.

The closest significant healthcare hub is Dothan, approximately 15 to 20 miles away. Traveling to Dothan Regional Medical Center, the largest hospital in the area, via Highway 134 and Highway 84 typically takes between 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Southeast Health, another prominent hospital, is also accessible within a similar timeframe. Smaller clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout Dothan offer a wider range of services, but their accessibility is still contingent on car travel.

The commute to healthcare is further complicated by the rural nature of the area. Traffic congestion is generally light, but the distances involved can still be a barrier, especially for those with mobility limitations or without personal vehicles. Residents of Pinckard also often travel to Enterprise, Alabama, for healthcare, which is approximately 30 to 40 minutes away via Highway 134 and Highway 27. This adds to the overall commute time, especially for routine checkups or specialist appointments.

Public transit options are limited in Pinckard and the surrounding areas. Dothan, the nearest city with any form of public transportation, operates a bus system. However, the routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the specific needs of Pinckard residents. The Dothan Transit System (DTS) operates several routes, but these are primarily focused on serving the city itself. There are no direct routes connecting Pinckard to Dothan's transit system, requiring multiple transfers and significantly increasing travel time.

Furthermore, the DTS system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features are limited. While buses are equipped with ramps and designated seating, the overall network's reach and frequency are not ideal for individuals with disabilities. The lack of readily available public transit exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Dothan area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services in Pinckard itself is not guaranteed. Ride-share services may be less reliable in rural areas due to lower demand and driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients requiring transportation to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several medical transport companies operate in the Dothan area, offering services such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. These services can be beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. However, these services typically come at a higher cost compared to other transportation options.

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in Pinckard, Alabama (ZIP Code 36371) is moderately challenging. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation presents a significant hurdle for individuals without access to a car. Drive times to healthcare facilities in Dothan and Enterprise are reasonable, but the lack of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services limit options.

The score is further affected by the limited ADA accessibility of available public transit options and the cost of medical transport services. While medical transport companies offer specialized assistance, their services are often expensive, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

For individuals **moving to Pinckard**, this score highlights the importance of considering transportation needs when planning their healthcare. Securing reliable transportation is essential for maintaining good health. This might involve owning a personal vehicle, arranging for family or friend support, or exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The availability of healthcare providers within the Dothan and Enterprise areas is a positive aspect, but it is essential to factor in the commute times and transportation limitations when evaluating the overall health landscape. The community could benefit from exploring options to improve healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded public transit routes, promoting ride-sharing programs, or supporting initiatives that offer transportation assistance to those in need.

Ultimately, the “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in Pinckard is a complex equation. While the proximity of healthcare facilities is a plus, the limitations of transportation options, particularly public transit, create a significant barrier for many residents. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone considering **moving to Pinckard** and for the community's efforts to improve the overall health and well-being of its residents.