36756, Marion, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36756, Marion, Alabama is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.31 percent of residents in 36756 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hale County Hospital with a distance of 0.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36756 (Marion, Alabama)

This report assesses the overall health score of ZIP Code 36756, Marion, Alabama, focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically examining the transportation infrastructure and options available to residents seeking medical care. Understanding the ease and efficiency of getting to healthcare facilities is paramount in determining a community's health and well-being. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for potential residents and current community members alike.

The health score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment based on the availability, accessibility, and affordability of transportation to healthcare. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this critical domain. This assessment is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering moving to Marion, AL, as transportation infrastructure profoundly impacts their ability to receive timely and necessary medical attention.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Marion is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The town's layout and surrounding geography necessitate reliance on cars for reaching most medical facilities. The primary thoroughfare serving Marion is US Highway 80, a vital east-west artery connecting the town to larger cities and healthcare hubs. Traveling east on US-80 leads to Selma, approximately 20 miles away, where a more comprehensive range of medical services are available. This drive, typically taking around 30 minutes, is a critical route for accessing hospitals, specialist clinics, and advanced diagnostic facilities.

Heading west on US-80, the journey extends to Demopolis, offering another potential destination for healthcare. This route, while less frequently used for routine care, provides an alternative and adds to the overall access options. Within Marion itself, accessing local clinics and the Perry County Hospital is generally straightforward. However, the reliance on personal vehicles does present challenges, particularly for those without access to a car or those facing mobility limitations.

Secondary roads, such as Alabama State Route 14, provide alternative routes, though they may be less direct and potentially slower. These roads are crucial for residents living on the outskirts of Marion or in more rural areas surrounding the town. The condition of these roads and the potential for delays due to traffic or weather conditions should also be considered when evaluating overall healthcare access.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Marion are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. There are no fixed-route bus services within the town or connecting Marion to surrounding areas. This lack of public transit is a major factor contributing to a lower overall health score.

While there are no specific public transit routes, it is essential to acknowledge the potential for volunteer-based transportation services. These services, often organized by local churches or community organizations, can provide transportation to medical appointments for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, the availability and reliability of these services can vary, and they are not a comprehensive solution to the public transit gap. The absence of ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Marion is limited. While these services may be present, their frequency and reliability are not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes them an unreliable option for routine medical appointments or urgent care needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the area. These services typically cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments due to mobility limitations or other health conditions. The availability of NEMT services is a crucial component of healthcare access, but the scope of services, including the range of medical facilities served and the cost, should be carefully considered.

The specific brands and providers of medical transport services in Marion and the surrounding area require further investigation. Identifying the specific companies, their service areas, and their pricing structures is essential for a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. The lack of readily available information about these services is a potential indicator of limited access.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Marion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 36756 is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The reliance on personal vehicles and the absence of a robust public transit system create challenges for many residents. Individuals considering moving to Marion should carefully consider these factors, especially if they do not have access to a car or have mobility limitations.

The proximity to Selma, with its wider range of medical services, offers a positive aspect of healthcare access. However, the 30-minute drive time highlights the need for reliable transportation. The availability of medical transport services is a critical component of the healthcare access landscape, and further research into these services is recommended.

For potential residents, it is crucial to assess their individual transportation needs and access to care before making a decision about moving to Marion. Those with chronic health conditions, mobility limitations, or limited access to transportation may face significant challenges in accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score for healthcare access in Marion, several key recommendations are essential. First and foremost, advocating for the development of a public transit system, even a limited one, would be a significant step forward. This could include a demand-response system or a fixed-route service connecting key areas within Marion and to surrounding healthcare hubs.

Secondly, promoting and expanding the availability of medical transport services is crucial. This could involve partnering with existing providers to increase their service area and capacity. It could also involve providing financial assistance to individuals who need medical transportation.

Finally, increasing awareness of existing transportation options and healthcare resources is essential. This could involve providing information to residents through local clinics, community centers, and other channels. This would help ensure that all residents are aware of the options available to them and can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

By addressing these recommendations, Marion can improve healthcare access for all residents and enhance the overall health and well-being of the community. The commitment to improving transportation infrastructure is a vital step in ensuring that all residents have equal opportunities to access the medical care they need.