The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36481, Vredenburgh, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
52.17 percent of residents in 36481 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Paul Jones Hospital with a distance of 11.36 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 36481, Vredenburgh, Alabama
Overall Health Score | 7 |
---|---|
People Score | 34 |
Provider Score | 12 |
Hospital Score | 38 |
Travel Score | 23 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 36481 | Vredenburgh | Alabama |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.17 | 2.17 | 1.85 |
1 Car | 36.96 | 36.96 | 18.18 |
2 Cars | 60.87 | 60.87 | 39.34 |
3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 40.63 |
Vehicular Access in 36481, Vredenburgh, Alabama
## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36481 (Vredenburgh, Alabama)
Assessing the overall health score for residents of Vredenburgh, Alabama (ZIP code 36481) necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access, particularly the transportation options available to reach medical facilities. This rural community faces unique challenges, and understanding these hurdles is critical to improving health outcomes. The score will be based on the availability, accessibility, and affordability of transportation options, directly impacting residents' ability to receive timely and necessary medical care. For anyone **moving to Vredenburgh**, this information is paramount.
The primary mode of transportation in this area is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on cars for their daily commutes, including trips to healthcare providers. The road network, while functional, presents certain limitations. The main thoroughfares are State Route 26, connecting Vredenburgh to surrounding towns, and County Road 15, offering access to local destinations. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the overall health score.
The closest hospital, Monroe County Hospital in Monroeville, is approximately a 30-minute drive via State Route 26. This drive time, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, weather conditions, or the condition of the roads. For specialized care, residents often need to travel further. The University of South Alabama Medical Center in Mobile, a major regional healthcare hub, is a considerable 1 hour and 45-minute drive, primarily via US-84 W and I-65 S. This extended travel time presents a significant barrier, especially during medical emergencies.
Public transportation options in Vredenburgh are extremely limited, which severely impacts the overall health score. There is no established public bus system within the town or the immediate surrounding area. This lack of public transit disproportionately affects individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income families. The absence of accessible and affordable transportation significantly restricts **healthcare access** for a substantial portion of the population.
The concept of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features within public transit is unfortunately nonexistent in this context. The absence of accessible routes and vehicles further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. This lack of inclusivity directly contributes to a lower overall health score, as it restricts their ability to seek and receive medical care.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Vredenburgh. This absence leaves residents with limited options for non-emergency transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, or the lack thereof, places a heavy burden on those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. The absence of ride-sharing options further diminishes the overall health score.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available but may be limited in this rural area. Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide emergency medical transportation. However, their availability for routine appointments or non-emergency situations may be restricted. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier, particularly for those with limited financial resources.
The affordability of transportation is another crucial factor influencing the overall health score. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and insurance can place a considerable financial strain on residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The lack of alternative transportation options, such as public transit or ride-sharing, forces individuals to rely on personal vehicles, increasing their transportation expenses. This financial burden can impact their ability to afford necessary medical care.
The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 36481 is significantly impacted by the challenges in **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transportation all contribute to a lower score. The extended drive times to healthcare facilities, especially for specialized care, further compound these challenges.
The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options creates significant barriers to **healthcare access** for many residents. This can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, resulting in poorer health outcomes. Preventative care, chronic disease management, and emergency medical services are all negatively impacted by these transportation limitations.
Improving the overall health score for Vredenburgh residents requires addressing the transportation challenges. Exploring options for expanding public transit, even on a limited scale, could significantly improve access to healthcare. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation services could also be beneficial.
Supporting community-based transportation programs, such as volunteer driver programs or carpooling initiatives, could provide valuable assistance to those in need. Furthermore, advocating for improved road infrastructure and traffic management could reduce drive times and enhance safety.
Investing in telehealth services could also help bridge the gap in healthcare access. Telemedicine consultations and remote monitoring can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and chronic disease management. This can be especially beneficial for residents who face transportation barriers.
Community outreach and education are also essential. Raising awareness about available transportation options, healthcare resources, and financial assistance programs can empower residents to make informed decisions about their health. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to developing sustainable solutions.
For anyone **moving to Vredenburgh**, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for planning their healthcare needs. Researching the location of healthcare facilities, assessing the availability of transportation options, and considering the potential costs associated with transportation are all essential steps. The ability to navigate these challenges will directly impact their health and well-being.
In conclusion, the overall health score for Vredenburgh residents is currently impacted by transportation limitations. Addressing these challenges through a multi-faceted approach, including expanding transportation options, investing in telehealth, and promoting community awareness, is critical to improving **healthcare access** and ultimately, the health outcomes of the community. The path forward requires collaborative efforts and a commitment to ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive the medical care they need, regardless of their ability to travel.
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