36551, Loxley, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36551, Loxley, Alabama is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.73 percent of residents in 36551 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Thomas Hospital with a distance of 9.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36551 (Loxley, Alabama)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Loxley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36551), necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access, particularly the ease and efficiency of transportation. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Loxley.

The fundamental challenge to healthcare access in Loxley is its relative remoteness. While the town itself offers a tranquil, suburban lifestyle, proximity to comprehensive medical facilities is often a determining factor for health outcomes. Residents must often travel to larger towns and cities for specialized care, making transportation a critical component of their overall well-being.

Drive times are a primary concern. The most direct route to the nearest major medical hub, the city of Mobile, usually involves navigating **Highway 59** south. During peak hours, this route can become congested, potentially extending a typical 45-minute drive to over an hour. For those heading north, **Highway 59** also provides access to Baldwin County medical facilities, though these are generally smaller and offer fewer specialized services.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **Highway 90** to access healthcare facilities in Daphne and Fairhope. This route offers a slightly more circuitous path but often experiences less traffic than **Highway 59**. The condition of these roads, while generally well-maintained, can be impacted by weather events, particularly during hurricane season, potentially disrupting access to care.

Public transportation options in Loxley are limited. The Baldwin County Area Transportation System (BCATS) provides a crucial service, but its routes and schedules are not always conducive to frequent trips to medical appointments. BCATS operates on a demand-response model, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance, and availability can be limited, especially during peak hours.

Furthermore, the system may not have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant vehicles readily available at all times, creating a barrier for individuals with mobility limitations. This lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The absence of fixed-route bus services also adds to the transportation challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Loxley, providing a more flexible transportation option. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially making it unaffordable for some residents to regularly access healthcare.

Medical transport services play a vital role in bridging the gap for individuals with specific needs. Several companies operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and other medical needs. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

These services are critical for individuals who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation due to medical conditions or disabilities. Some of the medical transport brands available in the area include, but are not limited to, MedStar and First Choice Medical Transportation. However, availability and cost vary depending on the specific service and the individual's needs.

The overall health score for transportation and healthcare access in Loxley is moderate. While residents have access to various options, each has limitations. Drive times can be lengthy, public transit is limited, ride-sharing availability is inconsistent, and medical transport services, while crucial, come with their own set of logistical considerations.

For individuals considering moving to Loxley, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully consider the potential travel times and the reliability of available transportation options. This is a critical consideration when planning a move to Loxley.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Loxley itself is limited. While there are some family practices and urgent care clinics, residents often need to travel to larger cities like Mobile or Fairhope for specialized care, including hospitals, specialists, and advanced diagnostic services. This reliance on external healthcare facilities further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation.

The healthcare landscape in Loxley is evolving. As the population grows, there is a potential for increased healthcare infrastructure, including the development of new clinics and the expansion of existing facilities. This, in turn, could improve healthcare access and reduce the reliance on long-distance travel.

However, for the present, the transportation challenges remain a significant factor in the overall health score. The lack of robust public transit, the potential for lengthy drive times, and the reliance on often-costly ride-sharing or medical transport services all contribute to a moderate score.

Ultimately, the health score for transportation and healthcare access in Loxley is a complex equation. It is influenced by the individual's health needs, their ability to drive, their financial resources, and their willingness to navigate the available transportation options.

The future of healthcare access in Loxley hinges on infrastructure improvements, including enhanced public transportation, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for the development of new medical facilities within the town. Until then, residents must carefully consider the transportation challenges when assessing their overall health and well-being.