35004, Moody, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35004, Moody, Alabama is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.85 percent of residents in 35004 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shelby Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 30.55 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 35004

The journey to optimal health, especially for those managing hypertension, often hinges on a crucial factor: **transportation**. In the heart of Alabama, ZIP Code 35004, encompassing the vibrant community of Moody, the ability to access healthcare directly impacts the quality of life. This write-up delves into the nuances of "healthcare access" in 35004, crafting a "Hypertension Score" based on the practical realities of commuting to medical appointments. We'll explore the available modes of **transportation**, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive understanding for residents and those **moving to Moody**.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a rigid number, but a qualitative assessment reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare facilities. It considers drive times, public transit availability, and accessibility of alternative transport options. The lower the perceived "score," the more convenient and readily available healthcare appears. Conversely, a higher "score" suggests potential challenges in accessing necessary medical care. This analysis aims to empower residents with informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The primary artery for vehicular **transportation** in 35004 is Interstate 20 (I-20), a major east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on I-20 provides direct access to the larger medical centers in Birmingham, roughly a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic. The journey west on I-20 offers access to facilities in Leeds and Pell City, typically within a 15-25 minute timeframe. This ease of access is a crucial factor in the "Hypertension Score," as prompt medical attention is paramount for managing the condition.

Local roads like Moody Parkway, also known as U.S. Highway 411, provide alternate routes and connect residents to local healthcare providers. However, these roads can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially increasing travel times and impacting the "Hypertension Score." Navigating these roads requires awareness of traffic patterns and potential delays, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing a hypertensive crisis.

Public **transportation** options in 35004 are limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), commonly known as MAX, offers bus service. However, the routes serving Moody are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Route 10 provides limited service along U.S. Highway 411, potentially offering access to some medical offices. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges, and this factor influences the "Hypertension Score" significantly.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative options. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 35004. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments, potentially impacting the "Hypertension Score" for individuals with limited financial resources.

For individuals requiring specialized medical **transportation**, several providers operate in the area. These services, such as MedTrans and American Medical Response, offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. These services often require pre-booking and can be costly, influencing the "Hypertension Score" for those reliant on them. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical for ensuring timely access to medical care.

The "Hypertension Score" is further influenced by the location of healthcare facilities. Moody has several primary care physicians and specialists. However, the proximity of these facilities to residential areas varies. The distance to pharmacies for medication refills is also a critical consideration, as prompt access to medication is vital for managing hypertension.

The process of **moving to Moody** requires consideration of the **transportation** landscape. Individuals with hypertension must assess the proximity of healthcare facilities to their potential residence. The availability of reliable **transportation** options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, should be carefully evaluated. This assessment will directly impact their ability to manage their condition effectively.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static entity; it is dynamic. It is subject to change based on factors like traffic patterns, the availability of public transit, and the emergence of new healthcare facilities. The score also varies based on an individual's circumstances, including their mobility, financial resources, and access to support networks.

The **healthcare access** landscape in 35004 presents both opportunities and challenges. While the proximity to major medical centers in Birmingham offers access to specialized care, the limited public **transportation** options and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can pose challenges for some residents. The "Hypertension Score" reflects this complex reality, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and awareness for individuals managing hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" for 35004, therefore, is moderate. The presence of I-20 offers relatively easy access to larger medical centers, and ride-sharing services provide an alternative. However, the limited public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing and specialized medical transport create challenges for some residents. The availability of local medical providers and pharmacies mitigates some of these challenges, but residents must carefully consider their individual needs and resources when navigating the **transportation** landscape. The overall "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of comprehensive planning for individuals **moving to Moody** or already residing in the area, ensuring they can effectively manage their health and well-being.