36471, Peterman, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36471, Peterman, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.67 percent of residents in 36471 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Hospital with a distance of 9.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36471

Peterman, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Monroe County, presents a unique landscape for residents when considering their overall health and, crucially, access to healthcare. ZIP Code 36471, encompassing the town and surrounding areas, demands a careful examination of transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical services. This write-up aims to provide an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating healthcare access within this specific geographic area. The score will reflect the relative ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical attention, influencing their overall well-being.

The primary factor impacting healthcare access in Peterman is the relative remoteness. The town is not a major metropolitan center, and the nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in larger towns and cities. This necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or specialized medical transportation, all of which can significantly influence the time and cost associated with receiving care. The score will therefore reflect the efficiency and affordability of these transportation options.

Drive times are a critical component of the health score. Residents of 36471 will likely need to travel to Monroeville, approximately 18 miles away, for more comprehensive medical services. The primary route is via **Highway 21**, a two-lane road that can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The drive typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Monroeville.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities such as Mobile, roughly 90 miles south. This journey involves navigating **Highway 21** to **Highway 10**, a longer stretch that can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic conditions. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly for those with urgent medical needs or limited mobility.

Public transportation options are severely limited in this rural setting. There are no readily available bus routes or train services that directly serve Peterman or connect it to major healthcare providers. This lack of public transportation significantly reduces the accessibility of healthcare for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of public transit contributes negatively to the overall health score, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly or individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed, and their availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in the evenings. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for some residents, further limiting their access to healthcare. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing are crucial factors that will be assessed when determining the health score.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services can be invaluable for those with mobility issues or other health conditions that make it difficult to travel independently. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, particularly in rural areas. The health score will consider the availability, affordability, and reliability of these specialized transportation options.

The quality and availability of healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity of Peterman are also crucial. While the town itself may not have a full-service hospital, the presence of a clinic, doctor's office, or urgent care facility can significantly improve the health score. The ability to receive basic medical care locally can reduce the need for long-distance travel for routine appointments and minor ailments. The score will account for the proximity and scope of local healthcare providers.

The overall health score for 36471 will reflect the interplay of these factors. It will consider the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services, the presence of medical transportation options, and the quality and accessibility of local healthcare providers. The score will also take into account the socioeconomic factors that may influence residents' ability to access healthcare, such as income levels and insurance coverage.

For individuals considering moving to Peterman, understanding the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access is essential. The health score will provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape and the availability of medical services, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The score will also serve as a valuable tool for local policymakers and healthcare providers, highlighting areas where improvements can be made to enhance healthcare access for all residents of 36471.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to healthcare and lower scores indicating greater challenges. This scale will allow for a clear and concise assessment of the overall health landscape in Peterman, enabling residents to understand the relative ease or difficulty of accessing medical care. The score will be a dynamic measure, subject to change as transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and socioeconomic factors evolve over time.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for 36471 will be a multifaceted assessment of the transportation and healthcare landscape in Peterman. It will consider drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing, medical transportation services, and the availability of local healthcare providers. This comprehensive analysis will provide a valuable tool for residents, policymakers, and healthcare providers, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare access and overall well-being in the community. The score will illuminate the realities of healthcare access, informing those considering moving to Peterman, and fostering a greater understanding of the challenges and opportunities that shape the health of its residents.