36766, Oak Hill, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36766, Oak Hill, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.22 percent of residents in 36766 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Paul Jones Hospital with a distance of 13.39 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Oak Hill (ZIP Code 36766)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Oak Hill, Alabama (ZIP Code 36766), focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. The score considers various transportation options available to reach medical facilities, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals considering moving to Oak Hill, as they significantly impact overall health and well-being.

Oak Hill, a community nestled in Wilcox County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often translates to longer travel distances to reach specialized medical care, making transportation a pivotal determinant of health outcomes. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview, empowering residents and potential newcomers to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Oak Hill is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Drive times to medical facilities are significantly influenced by the condition of local roads and the distances involved. The main thoroughfare connecting Oak Hill to larger towns with healthcare facilities is **Alabama State Route 10**, a two-lane highway that winds through the countryside. Traffic is generally light, allowing for relatively consistent travel times. However, the road's condition can vary, with potential for potholes and uneven surfaces, especially after periods of heavy rain.

Accessing larger hospitals and specialist clinics often necessitates travel along **U.S. Highway 80**, which provides a more direct route to Selma and Montgomery. The drive to Selma, approximately 30 miles, can take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. The journey to Montgomery, roughly 80 miles, typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. These longer drive times highlight the importance of planning and preparedness, especially in emergencies.

The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is another crucial factor. Wilcox County operates an ambulance service, and response times are generally within acceptable ranges for most emergencies. However, the rural setting can sometimes present challenges, particularly in reaching remote areas. The local ambulance service is equipped to handle a range of medical situations and can transport patients to the nearest appropriate medical facility.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Oak Hill are limited. Wilcox County does not have a dedicated public bus system. However, the possibility of utilizing **Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT)** services should be explored. ALDOT might offer limited transportation for medical appointments through its rural transportation programs. These services are often demand-response, meaning they require advance booking and may have limited availability.

Furthermore, the absence of a robust public transit system presents significant challenges for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The lack of regular bus routes or other forms of public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative methods, such as ride-sharing or medical transport, which can be costly and less readily available.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence is often limited. Availability may be restricted to certain times of the day and may require longer wait times compared to more urban areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, especially for longer trips to specialist appointments or hospitals.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, providing transportation for individuals who require assistance but do not need an ambulance. These services typically cater to patients with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves.

**ADA Accessibility:**

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. While the availability of public transit is limited, ride-sharing services and medical transport providers should adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. This includes providing vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts or other accessibility features. However, it is essential to confirm the availability of these features when booking a ride.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The distance to healthcare facilities is a primary concern for Oak Hill residents. The nearest hospitals, such as those in Selma and Montgomery, offer a range of medical services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and diagnostic testing. However, the travel times involved can be a significant burden, especially for those with chronic conditions or frequent medical appointments.

The availability of primary care physicians and specialists in the immediate vicinity of Oak Hill is also a crucial factor. Residents may need to travel to larger towns or cities to access certain medical specialties, such as cardiology, dermatology, or oncology. This further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation and the potential impact on healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, drive times, and healthcare access considerations, the Overall Health Score for residents of Oak Hill (ZIP Code 36766) is moderate. While personal vehicles provide the primary means of transportation, the limited public transit options, the reliance on ride-sharing services, and the distance to healthcare facilities present challenges.

To improve the Overall Health Score, several recommendations are offered. First, the development of a more robust public transportation system, potentially through partnerships with ALDOT or other regional transportation providers, would greatly benefit residents. This could include demand-response services or limited bus routes to key healthcare facilities.

Second, the promotion of ride-sharing services and the encouragement of medical transport providers to expand their services in the area would enhance healthcare access. This could involve incentives for drivers or partnerships with local healthcare providers to facilitate transportation for patients.

Third, the exploration of telehealth options and the expansion of local healthcare services, such as primary care clinics or satellite offices of specialist practices, would reduce the need for long-distance travel. This could involve attracting healthcare professionals to the area or leveraging technology to provide remote consultations and monitoring.

Finally, the improvement of road infrastructure, particularly the maintenance of Alabama State Route 10 and U.S. Highway 80, would contribute to safer and more efficient travel to healthcare facilities. This could involve addressing potholes, improving road markings, and ensuring adequate lighting.

By addressing these recommendations, the community can significantly improve the Overall Health Score for residents of Oak Hill, ensuring better healthcare access and promoting overall well-being.