35060, Docena, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35060, Docena, Alabama is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.30 percent of residents in 35060 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical West, An Affiliate Of Uab Health System with a distance of 13.85 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Docena (ZIP Code 35060)

Docena, Alabama (ZIP Code 35060), a community nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, presents a unique set of challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The ability to efficiently and reliably **transport** oneself to medical appointments is a crucial factor in managing this chronic condition. This write-up explores the **transportation** landscape, evaluating its impact on the Hypertension Score, a metric reflecting the ease with which residents can reach necessary healthcare services. We’ll examine drive times, public **transit**, ride-sharing options, and medical **transport** services, ultimately painting a picture of the realities faced by those living with hypertension in Docena.

The foundation of healthcare access in Docena rests on the availability of **transportation**. For many, the personal automobile remains the primary mode of travel. Assessing the accessibility of healthcare facilities necessitates understanding the primary roadways. Residents often rely on Interstate 20 (I-20) for longer journeys, heading east towards Birmingham or west towards Tuscaloosa. Access to I-20 is typically via local roads like Docena Road and Forestdale Boulevard.

The drive time to the nearest major medical centers in Birmingham is a critical component of the Hypertension Score. Driving to UAB Hospital, a leading medical institution, can take anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route typically involves navigating I-20 East and then transitioning onto surface streets. The journey to St. Vincent's Hospital, another prominent facility, is similar in duration, using I-20 East and local roads. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times, potentially hindering timely access to care.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians closer to Docena, such as those in Forestdale or Adamsville, offer shorter drive times, often under 15 minutes. However, these facilities may not offer the specialized services required for complex hypertension management. This geographical distribution of healthcare resources creates a trade-off: convenience versus comprehensive care.

Public **transit** options in Docena are available, though their impact on healthcare access is limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), operating as MAX, provides bus services. The specific routes serving Docena and connecting to healthcare facilities are crucial for the Hypertension Score. The MAX 28 (Forestdale) route offers a potential connection, though the frequency of service and the overall travel time to major hospitals can be a significant barrier.

The MAX system is designed with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair accessibility on all buses. This is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor often associated with hypertension. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential transfers can significantly extend travel times, potentially making it challenging to maintain regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** alternative. These services provide on-demand **transportation**, potentially circumventing the limitations of public **transit** and the reliance on personal vehicles. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services in Docena are crucial factors. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost, potentially making these services unaffordable for some residents. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services in a less densely populated area like Docena needs to be considered.

Medical **transport** services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically involve scheduled rides to and from medical appointments. The availability, cost, and insurance coverage for these services are critical factors in the Hypertension Score. For individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, medical **transport** can be a lifeline to healthcare.

The decision to relocate to Docena, or any area, requires a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, this assessment must include a detailed evaluation of **transportation** options. The Hypertension Score, in this context, reflects the ease with which residents can reach their healthcare providers.

Factors influencing the Hypertension Score in Docena include: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of personal **transportation**, the efficiency of public **transit**, the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability and affordability of medical **transport** services.

Improving the Hypertension Score in Docena could involve several initiatives. Enhancing public **transit** routes and frequencies, particularly those connecting to major hospitals, would be beneficial. Promoting ride-sharing programs or subsidies for low-income residents could improve access. Expanding the availability of medical **transport** services and ensuring their affordability is crucial.

The impact of these factors on the Hypertension Score is significant. Longer drive times, unreliable public **transit**, and the high cost of ride-sharing or medical **transport** can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Conversely, readily available and affordable **transportation** options empower individuals to proactively manage their hypertension, leading to improved health and quality of life.

The **transportation** landscape in Docena presents a complex picture. While personal vehicles remain the primary mode of travel, the limitations of public **transit**, the cost of ride-sharing, and the reliance on medical **transport** for some residents create significant challenges. The Hypertension Score in Docena is thus influenced by a combination of factors, highlighting the need for a multi-faceted approach to improving healthcare access and ensuring that residents can effectively manage their hypertension.

The success of any initiative aimed at improving healthcare access in Docena will depend on a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, local government, **transportation** providers, and community organizations. By addressing the **transportation** barriers, we can empower residents to take control of their health and improve their overall well-being. The journey to better healthcare in Docena is inextricably linked to the ability to navigate the **transportation** challenges.