36741, Furman, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36741, Furman, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 36741 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Paul Jones Hospital with a distance of 19.10 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36741

Zip Code 36741, encompassing the charming town of Furman, Alabama, presents a unique tapestry of rural living. Assessing its overall health score requires a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access, particularly how residents navigate the challenges of **transportation** to medical facilities. This analysis examines the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Furman**.

The most immediate consideration for healthcare access in Furman is the reliance on personal vehicles. The geographical reality of the area dictates that residents will likely need to drive to reach doctors, hospitals, and specialized care. The primary routes to healthcare destinations involve navigating the network of local roads and highways.

The most direct route to the nearest major healthcare hub, Greenville, Alabama, involves utilizing Alabama State Route 10, a well-maintained two-lane highway. The drive typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Greenville. This drive is relatively straightforward, but the absence of readily available roadside assistance or frequent service stations could pose a challenge in the event of a breakdown.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel to larger cities such as Montgomery or Mobile. These trips necessitate longer drives, significantly impacting the overall health score. Reaching Montgomery usually involves taking Alabama State Route 10 to US Highway 31, then connecting to Interstate 65 North. This journey can take approximately one hour and forty-five minutes to two hours, depending on traffic. Similarly, a trip to Mobile would involve traveling south on US Highway 31 and then connecting to Interstate 65 South, a journey that can easily exceed two hours.

The availability of public transit in Furman is extremely limited, significantly impacting the health score. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the zip code. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of a reliable public transit system underscores the need for alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand, such as medical appointments, could also exacerbate the financial burden for residents.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide these services, including ambulance services for emergency situations and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers. These services cater to individuals who require assistance getting to their appointments due to mobility limitations or other health conditions.

The availability and cost of NEMT services vary depending on the provider and the distance traveled. While these services can be a lifeline for some, they may not be readily accessible or affordable for all residents, potentially impacting their ability to attend necessary medical appointments.

Beyond the physical **transportation** challenges, the overall health score must also consider the proximity of healthcare facilities within Furman itself. The town may have a small clinic or primary care physician's office, but specialized care, such as specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers, are primarily located outside the zip code. This necessitates travel, adding to the complexity of healthcare access.

The limited availability of healthcare providers within Furman, combined with the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit, paints a picture of potential challenges. The absence of a robust public transit system and the reliance on ride-sharing services that may not always be readily available further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering **moving to Furman**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is crucial. Those with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations may find it challenging to access timely and consistent medical care.

The health score also considers the impact of the environment. Furman's rural setting offers benefits, such as cleaner air and opportunities for outdoor activities, contributing positively to overall health. However, the lack of sidewalks, bike lanes, and safe pedestrian infrastructure may limit opportunities for physical activity and active **transportation**.

The availability of emergency services is another critical factor. The response time of emergency medical services (EMS) is essential in a medical emergency. The distance to the nearest hospital and the availability of ambulance services are crucial considerations.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Zip Code 36741 is complex. While the rural environment offers some advantages, the lack of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to specialized medical facilities pose significant challenges. The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** are also crucial factors. Individuals considering **moving to Furman** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs, **transportation** options, and the potential impact on their overall well-being. The health score will be improved by the development of improved public transit, ride-sharing programs, and medical transport services.