36441, Flomaton, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36441, Flomaton, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.82 percent of residents in 36441 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is D W Mcmillan Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36441 (Flomaton, Alabama)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Flomaton, Alabama (ZIP Code 36441), focusing on transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a nuanced perspective for residents and those considering moving to Flomaton. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the ease (or difficulty) of accessing healthcare within and from this community.

Flomaton, nestled in Escambia County, Alabama, presents a unique challenge regarding healthcare access. While the town itself might have limited immediate medical facilities, the surrounding areas offer more comprehensive options. The success of accessing these options hinges on reliable transportation, making it a critical factor in the overall health and well-being of the community.

**Drive Times: The Primary Pathway**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Flomaton is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The primary roadways dictate the ease with which residents can reach hospitals, clinics, and specialists. The most significant artery is Interstate 10 (I-10), running east-west, providing access to larger medical centers in Pensacola, Florida, and Mobile, Alabama.

Traveling east on I-10 offers a quicker route to Pensacola, Florida, approximately 30 miles away. This drive, usually taking around 45 minutes to an hour, provides access to Baptist Hospital and Sacred Heart Hospital, both offering a wide range of medical services. The drive is relatively straightforward, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

Heading west on I-10 towards Mobile presents a longer journey, around 90 miles, and typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. This route leads to major medical facilities like the University of South Alabama Medical Center and Infirmary Health, providing specialized care and advanced treatment options. This journey is more time-consuming and can be particularly challenging for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Beyond I-10, US Highway 29 serves as a crucial north-south corridor. This road connects Flomaton to Atmore, Alabama, and Brewton, Alabama. While these towns offer smaller medical facilities, they can serve as alternatives for less critical healthcare needs. Drive times to Atmore are around 20-30 minutes, while Brewton is a 45-minute drive.

Smaller roads, such as State Route 112 and State Route 97, offer access to local clinics and doctor's offices. However, these routes are often less direct and may involve navigating rural areas, potentially increasing travel times and the risk of encountering road hazards.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Flomaton are extremely limited. Escambia County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

There is no established fixed-route bus service within Flomaton or connecting it to neighboring cities. This means that residents relying on public transit face significant challenges in reaching medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for any public transit system. The absence of such a system in Flomaton leaves individuals with disabilities dependent on alternative transportation methods, which can be costly and less reliable.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Flomaton, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. This makes relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs or scheduled appointments risky.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically involve wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers to assist patients.

Some of the prominent medical transport brands serving the area include First Medical Transport and MedStar Transportation. These services can be booked in advance and offer a more reliable option than ride-sharing for scheduled appointments. However, these services often come at a cost, which can be a barrier for low-income residents.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Flomaton**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Flomaton, Alabama (36441) is moderate, with significant limitations. The primary reliance on personal vehicles for transportation presents challenges for those without access to a car. The lack of public transit and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these difficulties.

Medical transport services offer a viable alternative, but their cost can be a significant barrier for some residents. The drive times to major medical centers in Pensacola and Mobile are manageable, but the distance and potential for traffic congestion must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Flomaton, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. Those with chronic medical conditions or frequent appointments should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare services. Prioritizing access to reliable transportation is paramount.

The absence of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles highlight the need for community initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded medical transport services, promoting carpooling programs, or exploring the feasibility of a limited public transit route. These efforts would significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance the well-being of the Flomaton community. The ease of transportation directly impacts healthcare access, making it a vital factor in the quality of life for all residents, especially those considering moving to Flomaton.