36480, Uriah, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36480, Uriah, Alabama is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.45 percent of residents in 36480 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Hospital with a distance of 15.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Uriah, Alabama (ZIP Code 36480)

The overall health score for residents of Uriah, Alabama, (ZIP Code 36480) regarding their access to healthcare is significantly impacted by the challenges of transportation. Rural communities often face hurdles in reaching medical facilities, and Uriah is no exception. This assessment analyzes the available transportation options, considering drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative solutions like ride-sharing and medical transport, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape.

Uriah, nestled in Monroe County, presents a geographical reality where healthcare facilities are not immediately accessible. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in neighboring towns and cities, demanding travel. This geographical isolation significantly affects the health score, particularly for individuals with limited mobility, chronic conditions, or without personal vehicles.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Transportation Mode**

The most prevalent mode of transportation for healthcare access in Uriah is the personal vehicle. The drive times to medical facilities are a critical factor in the overall health score. The primary route to larger medical centers involves navigating the local roads and highways.

Traveling to Atmore Community Hospital, approximately 20 miles away, typically takes around 30-40 minutes. The journey begins on County Road 47, a rural road that connects Uriah to Highway 21. Highway 21, a major north-south thoroughfare, leads directly to Atmore. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can extend this commute.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Mobile, approximately 70 miles away. This journey typically requires 1.5 to 2 hours, involving travel on Highway 21 to Interstate 65 South. Interstate 65 is a major highway, but traffic congestion, especially around Mobile, can significantly increase travel time.

The condition of the roads, including County Road 47 and Highway 21, also influences the health score. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and lack of adequate lighting can pose challenges, especially for those with mobility issues or during inclement weather. This necessitates proactive road maintenance and safety measures to ensure safe transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Uriah and the surrounding areas are severely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Uriah. This lack of public transit significantly hinders healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and individuals without access to a vehicle.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, which may not always be readily available or affordable. The lack of accessible public transportation options negatively impacts the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mobile area but may not be consistently accessible in Uriah. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability and demand, which can be unpredictable in rural areas.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who require assistance. However, the cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier to access, particularly for low-income residents.

Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide medical transportation services in the region. These services offer various levels of assistance, from basic transportation to stretcher transport for patients with mobility limitations. Availability and cost vary depending on the specific service and the distance traveled.

**ADA Accessibility: A Crucial Consideration**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation and medical facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of public transit in Uriah limits ADA-compliant transportation options.

When considering ride-sharing and medical transport, it is crucial to assess their ADA compliance. Ensuring that vehicles are equipped with ramps, lifts, and other accessibility features is essential to provide equal access to healthcare for all residents.

**Healthcare Access and its Impact on Moving to Uriah**

The challenges associated with healthcare access are a significant consideration for individuals contemplating moving to Uriah. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments, must carefully evaluate the transportation options and associated costs.

The availability of healthcare access is directly linked to the overall quality of life in Uriah. Addressing the transportation challenges is crucial to improve the health score and attract new residents. Investing in infrastructure, such as road improvements and exploring the feasibility of a demand-response transportation system, could significantly enhance healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion**

The overall health score for residents of Uriah, Alabama, concerning healthcare access is negatively impacted by the limitations in transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the potential cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport create significant barriers.

The geographical isolation of Uriah, coupled with the limited transportation options, necessitates a multi-faceted approach to improve healthcare access. This includes:

* **Infrastructure Improvements:** Prioritizing road maintenance and safety measures on County Road 47 and Highway 21.
* **Exploring Public Transit Solutions:** Investigating the feasibility of a demand-response transportation system or partnering with neighboring counties to extend existing bus routes.
* **Promoting Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Facilitating access to ride-sharing services and providing financial assistance for medical transport for low-income residents.
* **Community Awareness:** Educating residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources.

By addressing these challenges, Uriah can improve its overall health score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. This will not only improve the health and well-being of the community but also make Uriah a more attractive place to live and thrive.