35035, Brierfield, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35035, Brierfield, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.57 percent of residents in 35035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bibb Medical Center with a distance of 12.92 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brierfield (ZIP Code 35035)

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human need, becomes a complex equation when factored against the backdrop of a specific geographic location. In Brierfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35035), the availability and accessibility of healthcare services, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, are significantly influenced by transportation options. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for residents, especially those considering moving to this area.

The core issue is healthcare access. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent monitoring and medication adherence. Failure to maintain regular check-ups and medication refills can lead to severe health complications. The ability to reliably and affordably reach healthcare providers is therefore paramount.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For those who prefer the autonomy of personal vehicles, the primary arteries for navigating Brierfield and its surrounding areas are US Highway 31 and County Road 42. These roads, while offering direct routes, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. A trip to the nearest major medical center in Alabaster, such as Shelby Baptist Medical Center, typically involves a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive is primarily via US-31.

Further afield, access to specialized care in Birmingham requires a longer commute. The journey, primarily on Interstate 65, can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This is a significant time commitment, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing acute symptoms. The condition of roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Footprint**

Public transportation options in Brierfield are extremely limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, offers minimal service to this area. Residents would likely need to travel to a central point, such as the Pelham or Hoover Transit Centers, to access the broader BJCTA network. This often involves a drive to a park-and-ride location, adding another layer of complexity to the commute.

The existing public transit routes that may be relevant are the 42 (Pelham to Hoover) and the 43 (Hoover to downtown Birmingham). However, these routes are not directly accessible from Brierfield and do not offer any ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features. This is a significant barrier for those with mobility impairments, making healthcare access via public transit virtually impossible. The absence of a robust public transportation system is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and several smaller, local providers operate in the region. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, they can be expensive, and require advance booking. The reliability of these services is crucial, as missed appointments can have serious health consequences.

**The Hypertension Score: A Weighted Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Brierfield (ZIP Code 35035) is a composite assessment of the transportation challenges faced by residents with hypertension. It considers several factors:

* **Drive Times:** The duration of travel to healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence or absence of reliable and accessible public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Costs:** The affordability and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of transportation options that cater to individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Traffic Conditions:** The impact of traffic congestion on travel times, particularly during peak hours.

Based on these factors, the Hypertension Score for Brierfield is moderate to low. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit create significant challenges for healthcare access. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, their cost and reliability can be prohibitive.

**Moving to Brierfield: Considerations for Health**

For individuals considering moving to Brierfield, particularly those with hypertension, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. The following recommendations are crucial:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate the frequency of medical appointments, medication refills, and the ability to drive or access alternative transportation.
* **Explore Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that insurance plans cover transportation costs, including ride-sharing or medical transport services.
* **Identify Healthcare Providers:** Research the proximity of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and hospitals to the desired residence.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Establish a plan for accessing emergency medical services, including knowing the location of the nearest hospital and ambulance services.
* **Consider Proximity to US-31 and I-65:** Living near major roadways can reduce drive times, but it can also increase exposure to traffic noise and pollution.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improved Access**

The transportation infrastructure in Brierfield presents significant hurdles to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including exploring options for expanding public transit, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting medical transport services. Improving healthcare access is a critical component of community well-being, and a concerted effort is needed to ensure that all residents of Brierfield have the ability to receive the care they need. The Hypertension Score serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing transportation barriers to achieve optimal health outcomes.