36693, Mobile, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36693, Mobile, Alabama is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.43 percent of residents in 36693 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baypointe Behavioral Health with a distance of 1.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36693

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access within ZIP Code 36693, a critical consideration for anyone **moving to Mobile**, Alabama. We will examine the **transportation** landscape, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the ease (or difficulty) of reaching essential healthcare facilities, ultimately impacting the well-being of residents.

ZIP Code 36693, encompassing a significant portion of Mobile, presents a diverse terrain for healthcare access. The score reflects the efficiency and availability of various modes of transport to reach a range of medical facilities. This includes hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and specialized practices. The analysis considers factors like travel time, cost, accessibility, and the overall convenience of each option.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

The primary mode of **transportation** in Mobile is the automobile. Residents of 36693 rely heavily on personal vehicles to access healthcare. Drive times are significantly influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours.

Accessing major hospitals, such as University Hospital and Providence Hospital, often involves navigating the city's arterial roadways. Traveling to University Hospital from the heart of 36693 often requires navigating **Interstate 65 (I-65)**, a major north-south artery. Congestion can be expected, especially during rush hour. The drive can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the starting point within the zip code and the time of day.

Reaching Providence Hospital frequently involves using **U.S. Highway 90 (Government Street)** and **U.S. Highway 98 (Spring Hill Avenue)**. These routes are generally less congested than I-65, but traffic can still be a factor, particularly near major intersections. Expect travel times to range from 20 to 40 minutes.

Smaller clinics and specialized practices are often accessible via local roads, such as **Cottage Hill Road**, **Airport Boulevard**, and **Schillinger Road**. These routes offer more direct access, but may be subject to stop-and-go traffic during school hours and other peak times.

**Public Transit Challenges and Opportunities:**

The Mobile Transit System (MTS) provides public transit options, offering a network of bus routes that serve the city. However, the system's coverage within 36693 may be limited, and service frequency can be a concern.

Several bus routes, including Route 5 (Airport/Cottage Hill), Route 6 (Spring Hill), and Route 15 (Government Street), provide some access to healthcare facilities. However, direct routes to all hospitals and clinics are not always available, requiring transfers and potentially extending travel times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. MTS strives to provide accessible services, with wheelchair-accessible buses and designated stops. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the system for individuals with mobility limitations can be a challenge.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Solutions:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, offering greater flexibility and convenience.

Availability of ride-sharing services is generally good within 36693, but pricing can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. For those with limited mobility or specific medical needs, ride-sharing may not always be the most suitable option.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from healthcare appointments. Several providers operate in the Mobile area, including AMR (American Medical Response) and various private ambulance services. These services offer a range of options, from basic transportation to advanced medical support.

The cost of medical transport services can be significant, and insurance coverage may vary. However, these services provide a vital lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 36693 reflects a mixed picture. While driving offers relatively good access, traffic congestion and distance can be significant barriers. Public transit presents limitations in terms of coverage and frequency. Ride-sharing provides a viable alternative, but costs can be a factor. Medical transport services offer a crucial safety net for those with specific needs, but costs and insurance coverage must be considered.

**Considerations for Moving to Mobile:**

For individuals **moving to Mobile**, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. Consider the following:

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** Prioritize housing locations that offer convenient access to hospitals, clinics, and other medical services.
* **Transportation needs:** Assess your ability to drive, utilize public transit, or rely on ride-sharing services. Consider the availability of medical transport services if needed.
* **Insurance coverage:** Ensure your health insurance plan covers transportation costs, including ride-sharing or medical transport services.
* **Accessibility needs:** If you have mobility limitations, prioritize housing locations with accessible public transit options and consider the availability of accessible ride-sharing services.

The 'Overall Health Score' for 36693 reflects the need for careful planning and consideration when accessing healthcare. While the city offers a range of options, understanding the limitations and challenges is essential for ensuring timely and convenient access to medical services. The **transportation** infrastructure, while functional, presents opportunities for improvement to enhance **healthcare access** for all residents, making the transition of **moving to Mobile** a smoother one.