35064, Fairfield, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35064, Fairfield, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.45 percent of residents in 35064 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical West, An Affiliate Of Uab Health System with a distance of 9.04 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fairfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35064)

Fairfield, Alabama, a city steeped in history and community, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking to manage their health, particularly those living with hypertension. This write-up aims to provide a detailed analysis of healthcare access within ZIP code 35064, focusing on transportation options and their impact on the ability to receive timely and effective care. We'll assess the "Hypertension Score" by considering the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities, a critical factor in controlling this prevalent condition.

Understanding the challenges and opportunities in **healthcare access** is paramount for current and prospective residents. For those **moving to Fairfield**, this information will be invaluable in making informed decisions about their well-being. We'll delve into the practicalities of reaching essential medical appointments, from driving times to public transit options, ensuring a comprehensive picture of the local healthcare environment.

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in and around Fairfield are Interstate 20/59 (I-20/59) and U.S. Highway 78. These major thoroughfares offer relatively quick access to Birmingham, a hub for specialized medical care. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. From many residential areas in Fairfield, reaching the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, a leading medical center, via I-20/59 can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Navigating local roads is also crucial. Roads like Valley Road and Miles Parkway provide access to local clinics and pharmacies. Drive times to these facilities are generally shorter, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes. However, the condition of these roads and the availability of parking can sometimes pose challenges.

For individuals without personal vehicles, public **transportation** options exist, although they are limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), operating under the name MAX, provides bus service within the area. Route 20, for example, serves the Fairfield community, offering connections to downtown Birmingham and other key destinations. Unfortunately, the frequency of these routes can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. Waiting times between buses can be lengthy, and the routes themselves may not directly serve all medical facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. MAX buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the system remain areas for improvement.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** solution. These services can be particularly helpful for those needing a more direct route to their appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits. The availability of drivers in the Fairfield area may also fluctuate, potentially leading to delays.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations, offer another option. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. While these services provide a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing.

The "Hypertension Score" for Fairfield, Alabama, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Birmingham offers access to a wide range of medical specialists and facilities, the reliance on private vehicles or the limitations of public transit present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative solutions, but their cost and availability must be considered.

The overall score is influenced by several factors. The ease of **transportation** to primary care physicians, pharmacies, and specialists is a critical component. The frequency and reliability of public transit, the affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the overall accessibility of medical facilities all contribute to the score.

For individuals managing hypertension, regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are essential. The ability to easily and reliably access healthcare services directly impacts the success of these efforts. Long drive times, infrequent bus service, and the cost of alternative **transportation** options can create barriers to care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.

The lack of readily available, affordable, and efficient **transportation** options can exacerbate health disparities. Individuals with lower incomes or limited mobility may face greater challenges in accessing the care they need. This underscores the importance of addressing these **transportation** gaps to ensure equitable **healthcare access** for all residents of Fairfield.

The future of **healthcare access** in Fairfield could be improved with investments in public transit infrastructure, including increased route frequency and expanded service areas. Partnerships between local healthcare providers and **transportation** services could provide subsidized rides for patients. Promoting awareness of available resources, such as ride-sharing programs and medical transport options, is also crucial.

For those **moving to Fairfield**, carefully considering the **transportation** landscape is vital. Assessing the proximity to medical facilities, evaluating the availability of public transit, and researching the costs of ride-sharing and medical transport services are essential steps in ensuring access to the care needed to manage hypertension and other health conditions.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Fairfield, Alabama (ZIP code 35064), reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the city's location near Birmingham offers access to a wide range of medical services, the limitations of **transportation** options present challenges. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public transit, partnerships with **transportation** providers, and increased awareness of available resources will be critical in improving **healthcare access** and promoting the well-being of all residents.