36455, Lockhart, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36455, Lockhart, Alabama is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.30 percent of residents in 36455 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mizell Memorial Hospital with a distance of 20.12 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Lockhart, Alabama (ZIP Code 36455)

Lockhart, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Covington County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the inherent challenges of accessing essential services. This assessment delves into the intricate landscape of healthcare access within the 36455 ZIP code, examining the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options, ultimately culminating in an **Overall Health Score** that reflects the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical care. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone **moving to Lockhart**, ensuring informed decisions regarding their well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ability to reach medical facilities. In Lockhart, this primarily translates to reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for travel are US Highway 29, which runs north-south, and Alabama State Route 55, traversing east-west. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting **drive times** to healthcare providers. Local roads, such as County Road 2, County Road 4, and various other secondary routes, offer alternative paths but may be less direct and potentially subject to varying road conditions.

The nearest significant healthcare hub is Andalusia, approximately 15-20 miles away, depending on the precise location within the 36455 ZIP code and the chosen route. This journey typically involves traveling along US Highway 29. Other options, such as the larger medical facilities in Dothan, about 70 miles distant, or Pensacola, Florida, roughly 80 miles away, may necessitate travel on US Highway 29 and Interstate 65, or a combination of US 29 and State Route 90. These longer distances, especially in emergencies, pose a significant challenge.

**Drive times** are subject to fluctuations based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination. A trip to Andalusia Regional Hospital, the closest full-service hospital, could take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes under normal circumstances. Travel to Dothan or Pensacola could easily exceed an hour, demanding considerable time and potentially adding to the stress of seeking medical attention. The absence of readily available public **transportation** further compounds these challenges.

Public **transportation** options in Lockhart are severely limited. There is no established fixed-route bus service within the town or connecting it to nearby cities. While some regional transportation authorities may offer demand-response services, these are often targeted toward specific populations, such as seniors or individuals with disabilities. The availability and accessibility of these services, including their compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regarding wheelchair accessibility and other accommodations, require further investigation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Lockhart. The limited population density and the rural nature of the area make it economically unviable for these companies to maintain a constant presence. This lack of readily accessible ride-sharing options places a significant burden on individuals who do not have personal vehicles or are unable to drive.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are crucial for individuals requiring assistance. The availability of these services in Lockhart is essential, especially for emergencies and those with mobility limitations. The response times of emergency medical services (EMS) are critical, and the distance to the nearest hospital can significantly impact outcomes. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, such as MedTrans or LogistiCare, may be available to transport individuals to scheduled appointments, but their coverage and availability in this area require careful assessment.

The absence of robust public **transportation**, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant barriers to **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to a car. These limitations must be considered when evaluating the overall health of the community.

Considering the factors discussed, the **Overall Health Score** for commute to healthcare in ZIP Code 36455 is **moderate**. While the proximity to Andalusia Regional Hospital offers a relatively short **drive time** for many residents, the lack of alternative **transportation** options, the potential for longer travel distances to specialized medical facilities, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services present considerable challenges.

The score is further impacted by the absence of reliable public **transportation**, which disproportionately affects those unable to drive. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for longer travel times to access specialized care contribute to the overall score.

For individuals **moving to Lockhart**, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is crucial. They should consider the availability of family or friends who can provide **transportation**, the potential need for medical **transportation** services, and the financial implications of relying on personal vehicles for medical appointments. Understanding these factors will enable them to make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being.

Improving **healthcare access** in Lockhart requires a multi-faceted approach. This could include exploring partnerships with regional **transportation** authorities to establish demand-response services, advocating for the expansion of ride-sharing options, and promoting the availability of medical **transportation** services. Investing in these areas can significantly improve the **Overall Health Score** and enhance the quality of life for all residents.