35020, Bessemer, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35020, Bessemer, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.64 percent of residents in 35020 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical West, An Affiliate Of Uab Health System with a distance of 3.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bessemer, Alabama (ZIP Code 35020)

Considering a move to Bessemer, Alabama (ZIP Code 35020)? This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation and healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. This score aims to illuminate the practical realities of reaching vital medical appointments, a critical factor for successful hypertension management. We will delve into the complexities of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this community.

The core of effective hypertension management is consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and lifestyle counseling. The ability to reach healthcare providers reliably and efficiently is paramount. This assessment considers the practical challenges of transportation, evaluating the ease with which residents can access necessary medical services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Bessemer, Alabama, is geographically situated, and the primary arteries of transportation influence healthcare access significantly. The primary thoroughfare is Interstate 20/59 (I-20/59), bisecting the city and offering a direct route to several healthcare facilities. However, peak traffic hours can significantly extend travel times, especially during morning and evening commutes.

For those residing in the eastern portion of Bessemer, accessing facilities located in the western areas can involve navigating significant congestion. Alabama Highway 150 (AL-150) serves as a crucial east-west connector, often experiencing heavy traffic. The journey to healthcare appointments on this route requires careful planning, considering potential delays.

Furthermore, access to healthcare facilities located in Birmingham, just a short distance from Bessemer, necessitates navigating the complexities of the interstate system. The drive to facilities in Birmingham, such as UAB Hospital, can be a challenge, especially during rush hour. The combination of I-20/59 and I-65 is often congested, increasing travel times and adding stress.

The time of day profoundly impacts drive times. Morning and evening commutes can see drive times double or even triple, making it essential to factor in these variables when scheduling appointments. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the average drive times during both peak and off-peak hours to offer a realistic assessment.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus Routes**

The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), known as MAX, provides public transportation services within the Birmingham metropolitan area, including Bessemer. While public transit offers an alternative to driving, its availability and efficiency are crucial considerations for individuals with hypertension.

Several MAX bus routes serve Bessemer, offering potential access to healthcare facilities. Route 12 (Bessemer-Downtown Birmingham) is a key route, connecting Bessemer to downtown Birmingham, where numerous healthcare facilities are located. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, particularly during weekends and off-peak hours.

Accessibility is a critical factor. MAX buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a significant advantage for individuals with mobility limitations.

The "Hypertension Score" will consider the frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of MAX bus routes. The score will also factor in the total travel time, including waiting times and transfers, to provide a realistic assessment of the viability of public transit for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: The Digital Lifelines**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services within Bessemer is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs. The "Hypertension Score" will factor in the average cost of ride-sharing trips to healthcare facilities, considering potential surge pricing.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide a specialized transportation option. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), often including assistance with boarding and disembarking.

Several medical transport companies operate in the Bessemer area, providing services to various healthcare facilities. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services. The score will also consider the types of medical transport offered, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport.

**Healthcare Access: The Destination**

The proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas is a crucial factor in determining the ease of access. Bessemer has a variety of healthcare options, including clinics, primary care physicians, and specialists.

Brookwood Baptist Medical Center-Princeton is a significant healthcare provider located in Birmingham, accessible via I-20/59. UAB Hospital, a major medical center, is also accessible via the interstate system.

The "Hypertension Score" will consider the location of healthcare facilities, the types of services offered, and the availability of specialists. The score will also factor in the ease of scheduling appointments and the wait times for appointments.

**The "Hypertension Score" – A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" is not just a single number; it is a holistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Bessemer. The score will consider all the factors discussed: drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, medical transport, and the location and availability of healthcare facilities.

The score will be presented as a rating, providing a clear and concise assessment of the ease of access to healthcare. This rating will help individuals make informed decisions about moving to Bessemer, considering the critical importance of healthcare access for managing hypertension. The score will also highlight potential areas for improvement, such as expanding public transit routes or increasing the availability of medical transport services. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their lives.