36790, Stanton, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36790, Stanton, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.10 percent of residents in 36790 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Chilton with a distance of 18.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36790

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP Code 36790, a rural area, the ease and efficiency of transportation become paramount in determining residents' overall health score. This write-up analyzes the current transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. We will delve into the challenges and opportunities present for residents seeking medical attention.

For those considering moving to Stanton, understanding the limitations of healthcare access is vital. The overall health score for 36790 is significantly impacted by the distances and modes of transport required to reach essential medical services. This analysis aims to provide a clear and concise evaluation of these factors, highlighting areas for potential improvement and offering insights into the realities of healthcare access in this community.

The primary method of transportation in 36790 is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. Residents typically rely on County Road 11, County Road 1, and County Road 10 to connect to larger thoroughfares like US Highway 80. The drive to the nearest hospital, located in a neighboring town, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

This time frame can be a significant barrier, particularly during medical emergencies. Longer travel times can exacerbate health conditions and delay critical interventions. Further, the condition of the roads themselves can be a concern. Potholes, narrow lanes, and lack of shoulders on some county roads can contribute to increased travel times and potential safety hazards.

Public transportation options in 36790 are limited. The availability of fixed-route bus services is minimal, and routes are infrequent. There are no readily available public transit options that directly serve the needs of those requiring regular medical appointments. This lack of public transportation disproportionately affects those who cannot afford a vehicle, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

While the local government may offer some demand-response transportation services, these are often limited in scope and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent medical needs. The absence of accessible public transit also limits opportunities for social interaction and community engagement, further impacting the overall health and well-being of residents.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility of any existing public transportation is a critical consideration. The lack of accessible vehicles and infrastructure can create significant barriers for individuals with mobility impairments. This can lead to isolation and further limit their ability to access healthcare and other essential services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available, but their presence in 36790 is inconsistent. Availability is often limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or in emergencies can make these services unaffordable for many residents. The reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly in rural areas, cannot be guaranteed, creating uncertainty for those needing to schedule medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by specialized companies, are another option. These services typically provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior arrangements. The cost can be a significant barrier for individuals with limited financial resources.

The availability of these specialized transportation services is also a concern. The number of available vehicles and drivers may be limited, leading to delays in scheduling and potential difficulties in securing transportation when needed.

The healthcare landscape in 36790 is further complicated by the location of medical facilities. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are often located in neighboring towns or cities, increasing travel times and costs. This geographical distance can make it challenging for residents to access a full range of healthcare services, including specialized care and preventative screenings.

The lack of local healthcare providers also contributes to the challenges. The absence of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals within the community forces residents to travel further for even routine medical care. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately impacting the health outcomes of residents.

The overall health score for 36790 is negatively affected by the current transportation infrastructure and healthcare access limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, combined with limited public transit options and inconsistent ride-sharing availability, creates significant barriers for residents seeking medical attention. The long drive times to healthcare facilities, the lack of accessible transportation, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to the challenges faced by residents.

To improve the overall health score, several interventions are needed. Investing in public transportation, including expanding routes and increasing frequency, is crucial. Ensuring that all public transportation is ADA-compliant is also essential. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could provide a more affordable and reliable transportation option.

Encouraging the development of telehealth services can also improve healthcare access. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or limited transportation options.

Attracting more healthcare providers to the community is another critical step. Establishing a local clinic or expanding the services offered by existing healthcare facilities would significantly reduce travel times and improve healthcare access for residents.

For those considering moving to Stanton, a thorough assessment of these transportation and healthcare access challenges is vital. Understanding the limitations and potential solutions is crucial for making an informed decision about the community's suitability. By addressing these transportation and healthcare access challenges, the overall health score for 36790 can be improved, leading to a healthier and more vibrant community.