36613, Eight Mile, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36613, Eight Mile, Alabama is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.36 percent of residents in 36613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Usa Health University Hospital with a distance of 6.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36613

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the ease with which residents of ZIP Code 36613, a region often associated with the Eight Mile community, can reach medical facilities. We will analyze the available transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to provide an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the accessibility of healthcare services. This score will consider drive times, route availability, and the presence of ADA-compliant features.

The primary mode of transportation for residents in 36613 is the personal vehicle. However, this reliance presents challenges. Driving to healthcare appointments can be time-consuming, especially during peak hours. The area is served by major thoroughfares such as Interstate 65 (I-65), Interstate 10 (I-10), and U.S. Highway 90. Congestion on these routes, particularly around the interchanges, can significantly extend travel times. Local roads like Moffett Road and Schillinger Road also experience heavy traffic, adding to the commute burden.

Drive times to major healthcare providers vary. University Hospital, located near downtown, can take 20-40 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the specific origin point within 36613. Providence Hospital, situated further south, might require a 25-45 minute drive. For specialized care at facilities like the Mitchell Cancer Institute, located near the University of South Alabama, the journey could take 30-50 minutes. These estimates highlight the potential for substantial travel time, which can be a barrier to timely and consistent healthcare.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with its own limitations. The Mobile Transit Authority (MTA) operates several bus routes that serve the 36613 area. Route 5, for instance, travels along Moffett Road, providing a connection to the downtown area. Route 10 provides access to Schillinger Road. However, the frequency of these routes can be a concern, with buses typically arriving every 30-60 minutes.

Furthermore, the coverage area of the MTA is limited. While the routes provide access to some healthcare facilities, reaching others may require multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time. The availability of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and accessible seating, is a critical factor. The MTA strives to provide accessible services, but the practical application and reliability of these features can vary.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services can be accessed through smartphone applications, providing on-demand rides to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. Several medical transport providers operate in the Mobile area, including companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR). However, the availability of these services may require advance booking, and the cost can be substantial, especially for those without insurance coverage.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 36613 is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion, presents a significant challenge. While public transportation offers an alternative, its limited coverage and frequency can hinder access. Ride-sharing services provide flexibility but can be expensive and availability is not guaranteed. Medical transportation services offer specialized support but come with their own cost and booking constraints.

These factors combine to create a complex landscape for healthcare access. Residents of 36613 face a range of challenges when trying to reach medical appointments. The time and effort required to travel to healthcare facilities can impact the ability to receive timely care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. The financial burden of transportation, particularly for those with limited income, adds another layer of complexity.

Considering the various transportation options and their limitations, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 36613 is moderate. The score reflects the presence of multiple transportation options, but also acknowledges the challenges associated with each. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the booking requirements of medical transport services all contribute to this moderate score.

Improving healthcare access in 36613 requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation, including increasing route frequency and expanding coverage, would be beneficial. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could also improve access. Furthermore, increasing the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would be crucial.

Addressing the transportation challenges in 36613 is essential for improving the overall health of the community. By investing in accessible and affordable transportation options, we can remove barriers to healthcare and promote better health outcomes for all residents. This is especially important for a community like Eight Mile, which often faces socioeconomic challenges that can exacerbate health disparities. Improving transportation infrastructure and services is a vital step toward creating a healthier and more equitable community.