36850, Camp Hill, Alabama Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 36850, Camp Hill, Alabama is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.21 percent of residents in 36850 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake Martin Community Hospital with a distance of 6.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Camp Hill, Alabama (ZIP Code 36850)

This report analyzes the overall health score for residents of Camp Hill, Alabama (ZIP Code 36850), focusing on the critical element of healthcare access through various transportation options. Understanding the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities is paramount to assessing community well-being, particularly for individuals considering **moving to Camp Hill**. The analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**.

Camp Hill, a charming town nestled in the heart of Tallapoosa County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents unique challenges regarding **transportation** to and from healthcare providers. The overall health score reflects the degree to which residents can readily access necessary medical services, factoring in both the physical distance and the practical hurdles encountered in getting there. This score is not merely a number; it's a reflection of the community's ability to prioritize and support its citizens' health.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary means of transportation for most Camp Hill residents is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The proximity to essential healthcare facilities is a significant factor in determining the overall health score. The closest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in nearby cities, requiring travel along well-maintained highways and local roads.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare is likely Highway 280, a major east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on Highway 280 leads to the East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, a journey of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive involves navigating a mix of rural stretches and potentially congested areas near Opelika. The condition of Highway 280 is generally good, but occasional delays due to accidents or construction can impact travel times.

Heading west on Highway 280 presents another healthcare option, though further afield. The drive to the Baptist Medical Center South in Montgomery is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. This longer commute underscores the importance of considering the potential for unexpected delays and the need for reliable transportation.

Local roads, such as County Road 10 and County Road 29, provide alternative routes, but these are often slower and less direct. These roads may be crucial for accessing smaller clinics or specialized practices located closer to Camp Hill. The maintenance of these roads is essential for ensuring safe and efficient travel.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Camp Hill are limited, which significantly impacts the overall health score. Currently, there are no dedicated bus routes or public transit systems operating directly within Camp Hill or providing regular service to healthcare facilities in surrounding cities. This lack of public transit presents a substantial barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, disabled, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transportation, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services. The availability and affordability of these options are crucial factors in mitigating the negative impact of limited public transit. The development or expansion of public transportation infrastructure, including bus routes or demand-response services, would significantly improve the health score for Camp Hill residents. ADA-compliant features on any future public transit are essential for ensuring accessibility for all.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for accessing healthcare. However, their availability in Camp Hill and the surrounding areas can be variable. The frequency of service and the associated costs may be higher than in more densely populated areas. Reliance on ride-sharing can be particularly challenging for appointments scheduled in advance, as securing a ride can be unpredictable.

Medical transport services provide a specialized option for individuals requiring assistance with transportation due to medical conditions or disabilities. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. The cost of these services can be significant, and availability may be limited, especially during peak hours or for appointments scheduled with short notice.

The efficiency and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services directly influence the overall health score. The more accessible and affordable these options are, the higher the score. The availability of specialized services, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is also crucial for ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for Camp Hill, Alabama (ZIP Code 36850), is moderately impacted by the current transportation landscape. While the road infrastructure is generally adequate for personal vehicle travel, the lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services present significant challenges.

The drive times to healthcare facilities in Opelika and Montgomery are manageable for most residents. However, the reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on those without access to a car or those unable to drive. The absence of public transit exacerbates this issue, creating a disparity in healthcare access.

The overall health score can be improved by addressing the transportation challenges. This could involve the introduction of public transit, expansion of ride-sharing services, or increased availability of affordable medical transport options. Investment in these areas would significantly enhance the community's ability to support its residents' health and well-being.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score and ensure equitable **healthcare access** for all Camp Hill residents, several recommendations are offered.

* **Advocate for public transit:** Explore the feasibility of establishing a bus route or demand-response transit service connecting Camp Hill to healthcare facilities in Opelika and Montgomery. This would provide a crucial alternative for those without personal vehicles.
* **Support ride-sharing initiatives:** Partner with ride-sharing companies to increase service availability and explore potential subsidies or discounts for healthcare-related trips.
* **Promote medical transport options:** Provide information and resources regarding available medical transport services, including contact information and cost comparisons.
* **Improve road safety:** Advocate for ongoing maintenance and improvements to Highway 280 and local roads to ensure safe and efficient travel.
* **Community outreach:** Educate residents about available transportation options and resources, particularly for vulnerable populations.

By implementing these recommendations, Camp Hill can foster a healthier and more accessible community, enhancing the overall health score and making it a more attractive place to live, especially for those considering **moving to Camp Hill**. The commitment to improving **transportation** infrastructure and services will directly translate into improved **healthcare access** and a higher quality of life for all residents.