36602, Mobile, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36602, Mobile, Alabama is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.11 percent of residents in 36602 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Usa Health Children's & Women's Hospital with a distance of 2.60 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36602**

Understanding healthcare access is critical for anyone considering a move to Mobile, Alabama, particularly within the 36602 ZIP code. This analysis provides an overall health score, considering transportation options and their impact on reaching essential medical services. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The 36602 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of downtown Mobile and surrounding neighborhoods, presents a mixed bag when it comes to healthcare access. While proximity to some medical facilities is a plus, transportation challenges can significantly impact overall health outcomes. The score reflects the combined ease or difficulty of reaching various healthcare providers.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. The major thoroughfares, including Interstate 10 (I-10) and I-65, provide the backbone for accessing healthcare facilities. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

For residents in the western part of 36602, reaching Providence Hospital, located off I-65, might involve a 15-20 minute drive under normal conditions. However, during rush hour, this could easily stretch to 30 minutes or more. Similarly, accessing the University of South Alabama Medical Center, located further south, requires navigating city streets and potentially dealing with traffic on Government Street.

The Eastern Shore, including Fairhope and Daphne, is accessible via the Causeway (US-98). This route offers scenic views but can become heavily congested, especially during peak commuting times and weekends. Driving to healthcare facilities in these areas from 36602 can take upwards of 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Smaller roads like Dauphin Street and Springhill Avenue offer alternative routes, but they often involve navigating a complex network of traffic lights and intersections. These routes can be slower and less predictable than the interstates.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The Mobile Transit Authority (MTA) provides public transportation within the city. However, its coverage within the 36602 ZIP code, and its overall impact on healthcare access, is limited. Route 5, for example, serves areas within 36602, but its frequency and route coverage are not always ideal for healthcare appointments.

Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are available on MTA buses, complying with ADA regulations. However, the limited route network and infrequent service make public transit a less viable option for many residents, especially those with mobility limitations or time constraints.

Waiting times and the potential for multiple transfers can significantly extend travel times, making it challenging to arrive at appointments on time. Public transit is often a less attractive option for those requiring urgent medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving and public transit. These services are readily available in Mobile, including the 36602 ZIP code. They provide a convenient way to reach healthcare appointments, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to.

However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase expenses.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR), cater specifically to patients needing non-emergency medical transport. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility challenges. They are often a good option for those with disabilities or those requiring assistance getting to and from appointments.

These services often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent needs. Costs vary depending on the distance, level of care required, and insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access: A Complex Equation**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 36602 is moderate. While the area benefits from the presence of several healthcare providers, transportation challenges limit access for many residents.

Drive times, particularly during peak hours, can be a significant barrier. Public transit offers a limited and often inefficient option. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide viable alternatives, but they come with associated costs.

The score emphasizes the importance of considering individual needs and circumstances when evaluating healthcare access in this area. Factors such as mobility, income, and the frequency of healthcare appointments will influence the ease or difficulty of accessing medical care.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in 36602 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding the MTA’s route network and increasing service frequency would significantly benefit residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs and exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers could also enhance accessibility.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as traffic management systems and dedicated bus lanes, could reduce drive times and improve public transit efficiency. Educating residents about available transportation options and providing financial assistance for transportation costs could also improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion**

For those considering moving to Mobile and residing in the 36602 ZIP code, understanding healthcare access is crucial. While the area offers a range of healthcare providers, transportation options present challenges. A careful assessment of individual needs and circumstances is essential to ensure that healthcare access is readily available. The overall health score reflects the complex interplay of factors influencing healthcare access and highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options and support the health and well-being of all residents.