36401, Evergreen, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36401, Evergreen, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.96 percent of residents in 36401 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Evergreen Medical Center with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Evergreen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36401)

Evergreen, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Conecuh County, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities for its residents, particularly when considering their overall health. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 36401, delves into the intricate relationship between *transportation* and *healthcare access*, providing a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment for individuals residing in or *moving to Evergreen*. The score considers factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, painting a picture of the accessibility landscape for those seeking medical attention.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the geographical realities of Evergreen. The town is relatively isolated, with limited public *transportation* infrastructure. The primary roadways, US Highway 31 and Alabama State Route 83, serve as vital arteries connecting residents to healthcare facilities. However, the distances involved, coupled with the potential for traffic, significantly impact *healthcare access*.

Drive times, a crucial component of the score, are subject to several variables. The closest major healthcare provider, D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital in Brewton, Alabama, is approximately 30 miles south of Evergreen. Traveling via US-31, the drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This time commitment can be particularly burdensome for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Further afield, more specialized care options exist in larger cities like Mobile (approximately 110 miles south) and Montgomery (approximately 100 miles north). Reaching these destinations involves significantly longer travel times, often exceeding two hours, primarily utilizing I-65. This extended travel burden presents a considerable barrier to *healthcare access*, potentially deterring individuals from seeking necessary medical attention.

Public *transportation* options in Evergreen are severely limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The absence of a robust public transit system necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The lack of reliable public *transportation* disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities.

While specific public transit routes are not readily available within the confines of Evergreen, the possibility of demand-response services or community-based transportation programs could be explored. These options, though not always accessible, could alleviate some of the *transportation* burdens. The implementation of ADA-compliant buses or services would be crucial to ensure inclusivity and equal access for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles, though their availability in Evergreen is uncertain. The presence of these services is often contingent on demand and driver availability, which may be limited in a rural setting. Even if available, ride-sharing costs can quickly accumulate, posing a financial barrier for many residents.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to cater to individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments, play a crucial role in bridging the *healthcare access* gap. Several companies, including medical transport services, provide non-emergency medical *transportation* to and from medical appointments. These services offer a valuable lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize other *transportation* options.

The availability and cost of medical *transportation* services are critical considerations in the overall health score. The cost of these services, often not covered by insurance, can be prohibitive for some individuals, potentially leading to delayed or missed medical appointments.

The quality of roads and infrastructure also influences *healthcare access*. Potholes, poorly maintained roads, and inadequate signage can increase travel times and pose safety risks, particularly for individuals with medical conditions. Investing in road maintenance and infrastructure improvements is essential to enhance *transportation* efficiency and safety.

The availability of local healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities, directly impacts the need for extensive travel. Evergreen has a limited number of healthcare providers within the ZIP code, necessitating travel to neighboring towns or cities for specialized care. This scarcity increases the reliance on *transportation* options and adds to the overall travel burden.

The Overall Health Score for *healthcare access* in Evergreen, Alabama (36401) is negatively impacted by the limited *transportation* options, the distances to healthcare facilities, and the absence of a robust public transit system. While ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services offer potential solutions, their availability and affordability remain significant concerns.

When *moving to Evergreen*, prospective residents should carefully consider the *transportation* challenges associated with accessing healthcare. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the time and cost of travel. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for long drive times, and the limited availability of alternative *transportation* options are significant factors that influence the overall health score.

The score can be improved by investing in public *transportation* infrastructure, expanding ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of medical *transportation* options. Supporting initiatives that promote telehealth and remote patient monitoring can also mitigate the impact of *transportation* barriers.

Ultimately, the Overall Health Score for *healthcare access* in Evergreen, Alabama, reflects the interplay of geographical realities, *transportation* infrastructure, and the availability of healthcare services. Addressing the *transportation* challenges is crucial to ensuring that all residents have timely and equitable access to the medical care they need. The score serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing *transportation* disparities to improve the health and well-being of the Evergreen community.