36526, Daphne, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36526, Daphne, Alabama is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.90 percent of residents in 36526 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Thomas Hospital with a distance of 7.28 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Daphne, Alabama (ZIP Code 36526)

Considering a move to the charming city of Daphne, Alabama (ZIP code 36526)? Beyond the picturesque landscapes and friendly community, it’s crucial to assess your overall health score, factoring in healthcare access. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is paramount for ensuring your well-being in your new home.

Daphne, nestled along the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. However, healthcare access, like any location, hinges on effective transportation. The overall health score reflects the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical care, encompassing various modes of transportation and their associated challenges.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many Daphne residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Several major roadways facilitate healthcare access. The most direct route to many medical facilities in Mobile, the nearest major city with comprehensive healthcare, involves Interstate 10 (I-10). Traveling west on I-10 offers relatively swift access to hospitals like Providence Hospital and Mobile Infirmary Medical Center. Expect drive times to range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Highway 98, a vital artery running north-south through Daphne, also provides access to local clinics and urgent care facilities. This route, while generally less congested than I-10, can experience heavier traffic during peak hours. Travel times to local medical offices along Highway 98 are typically shorter, often under 15 minutes.

Highway 90, another significant east-west thoroughfare, offers alternative routes, though it may involve longer travel times to reach the major hospitals in Mobile. Local roads, such as County Road 64 and Whispering Pines Road, provide access to smaller clinics and medical practices within Daphne. These local routes offer convenience for appointments within the city limits, often minimizing travel time to under 10 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation in Daphne, while present, is limited in scope. The primary provider is the Coastal Alabama Transportation Authority (CATA). CATA offers fixed-route bus services, but the routes are not extensive and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Accessing a bus stop might require a drive or walk, adding to the overall travel time.

The CATA system is designed with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility in mind. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the infrequency of routes and the limited coverage area can pose challenges for those relying on public transit for healthcare access. Planning your trip carefully and allowing ample time is essential.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Daphne, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who do not drive or prefer not to drive. However, ride-sharing availability may vary depending on the time of day and demand. Surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand, such as during inclement weather, can impact affordability.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport companies operate in the Daphne area, including AMR (American Medical Response) and various local providers. These services can be invaluable for those requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transportation to and from medical appointments. However, medical transport services typically require prior booking and may involve higher costs compared to ride-sharing or public transit.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Travel Considerations**

Several healthcare facilities are accessible from Daphne. The closest urgent care centers are located within Daphne itself, offering convenient access for immediate medical needs. For more specialized care, residents often travel to Mobile.

Providence Hospital, a major hospital in Mobile, is typically accessible via I-10, with travel times ranging from 25 to 40 minutes. Mobile Infirmary Medical Center, another prominent hospital, is also easily accessible via I-10, with similar travel times. Smaller clinics and specialist offices are scattered throughout the Mobile area, with travel times varying depending on location.

When assessing your overall health score, consider the specific healthcare needs of yourself and your family. If you require frequent specialist visits or have mobility limitations, the availability and accessibility of transportation become even more critical.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score**

Several factors influence the overall health score in Daphne. These include:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance to hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers significantly impacts travel time and convenience.
* **Transportation Options:** The availability and reliability of personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services are crucial.
* **Traffic Conditions:** Traffic congestion, particularly on I-10 and Highway 98, can affect travel times, especially during peak hours.
* **Accessibility:** The accessibility of public transit and healthcare facilities for individuals with disabilities is essential.
* **Cost:** The cost of transportation, including fuel, ride-sharing fares, and medical transport fees, can affect affordability.
* **Personal Health Needs:** The frequency and type of medical care required will influence the importance of transportation options.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Moving to Daphne offers a desirable lifestyle, but a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access is vital. The overall health score in Daphne is moderately positive. While drive times to major hospitals in Mobile are reasonable, the limited public transit options and potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services require consideration.

If you are considering moving to Daphne, carefully assess your healthcare needs and your ability to access the necessary transportation. Research the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options. Familiarize yourself with the CATA bus routes and their accessibility features. Plan your healthcare appointments in advance, accounting for potential travel delays.

Daphne offers a welcoming environment, but a proactive approach to healthcare access will ensure a smooth transition and contribute to your overall well-being. By understanding the transportation landscape and the factors influencing your health score, you can make an informed decision and embrace the joys of living in this charming Alabama city.