36580, Summerdale, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36580, Summerdale, Alabama is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.48 percent of residents in 36580 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Baldwin Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Summerdale, AL (ZIP Code 36580)

Considering a move to the charming town of Summerdale, Alabama? Beyond the allure of Southern hospitality and picturesque landscapes, prospective residents must consider a critical factor: healthcare access. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP Code 36580, evaluating various transportation options and their impact on residents' well-being. The score reflects the ease and efficiency of reaching medical care, a vital component of a healthy and fulfilling life.

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite metric, weighing factors such as drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. It also considers the accessibility of facilities, including ADA compliance, and the overall quality of the healthcare landscape in the region. This write-up aims to provide a clear and actionable understanding of the healthcare commute, empowering informed decisions for those considering making Summerdale their home.

**Drive Times and Road Networks: The Primary Arteries**

For many Summerdale residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The efficiency of this commute hinges on the road network and the distance to medical providers. Primary routes include US Highway 90, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Alabama State Route 59, a vital north-south artery. These highways offer relatively direct access to healthcare facilities in neighboring cities, such as Foley and Robertsdale.

Drive times, however, are subject to traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. A trip to South Baldwin Regional Medical Center in Foley, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via AL-59, depending on traffic flow. Similarly, a drive to North Baldwin Infirmary in Bay Minette, a more distant option, can range from 35-45 minutes, primarily utilizing US-90 and AL-59. These times, while manageable, should be factored into any health-related appointments.

The condition of the roads and the prevalence of traffic congestion can significantly impact the overall health score. While the roads are generally well-maintained, the influx of tourists during peak seasons can lead to increased traffic, potentially extending commute times and adding stress, which can negatively affect health.

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

Public transportation options in Summerdale are limited, which impacts the overall health score. Baldwin County operates a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare commutes. These services primarily focus on providing general transportation within the county, with limited stops and infrequent schedules.

While the system offers some accessibility features, such as ADA-compliant vehicles, the lack of dedicated routes to medical facilities poses a significant challenge for residents without personal vehicles. The reliance on limited public transit can lead to longer commute times and increased difficulty in accessing healthcare services, especially for those with mobility issues or chronic conditions. This limitation is a crucial factor affecting the overall health score.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for healthcare access in Summerdale. Their availability and cost-effectiveness can vary depending on demand and the time of day. While these services provide greater flexibility compared to public transit, their reliability is not guaranteed, particularly in rural areas.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with specific needs, provide another layer of support. Companies like MedStar and First Choice Medical Transport offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are invaluable for individuals requiring assistance or those with mobility limitations. However, they often come with higher costs, which can be a barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute positively to the overall health score, but they do not fully compensate for the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The overall health score is also influenced by the proximity and availability of healthcare facilities. Summerdale itself has limited healthcare options. Residents primarily rely on facilities in neighboring cities, such as Foley, Robertsdale, and Bay Minette. This necessitates longer commute times, which can impact the overall health score.

The quality and range of services offered by these facilities also play a crucial role. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center in Foley provides a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and outpatient clinics. North Baldwin Infirmary in Bay Minette offers similar services, albeit at a greater distance. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is also a critical factor, as residents may need to travel further for specialized care.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Summerdale, AL (ZIP Code 36580) is moderately favorable. The score is primarily driven by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The relatively short drive times to healthcare facilities in Foley and Robertsdale, via AL-59 and US-90, contribute positively to the score. However, the lack of readily available public transportation and the potential for traffic congestion during peak seasons negatively impact the score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their cost and reliability can be a concern.

The overall score reflects a need for careful consideration when assessing healthcare access. While residents can reach medical facilities with relative ease, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited alternatives require planning and awareness. Those considering moving to Summerdale should factor in the commute times, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with healthcare access when making their decision.

**Recommendations**

For prospective residents, it is crucial to consider their individual healthcare needs and mobility limitations when evaluating the overall health score. Individuals with chronic conditions or those who rely on public transportation should carefully assess the feasibility of accessing healthcare facilities.

Exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is recommended. Familiarizing oneself with the local healthcare landscape, including the range of services offered by nearby facilities, is also essential. By understanding the nuances of healthcare access in Summerdale, residents can make informed decisions and ensure their well-being.