35072, Goodwater, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35072, Goodwater, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.39 percent of residents in 35072 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Chilton with a distance of 37.29 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Goodwater, Alabama (ZIP Code 35072)

Goodwater, Alabama, a town nestled in the heart of Coosa County, presents a unique set of challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focuses on transportation options and their impact on residents’ ability to reach essential medical services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the landscape for someone considering moving to Goodwater, or for current residents seeking improved healthcare access. The ability to readily obtain care is crucial for managing hypertension, a condition demanding consistent monitoring and medication adherence.

The cornerstone of this assessment is understanding the available transportation infrastructure. The primary arteries connecting Goodwater to surrounding areas are Alabama State Route 9 (AL-9) and Alabama State Route 22 (AL-22). AL-9, running north-south, provides a vital link to larger towns like Sylacauga and Alexander City. AL-22, traversing east-west, connects Goodwater to Rockford and eventually to Interstate 65 (I-65), the major north-south thoroughfare for the state.

Driving times are a critical factor. The nearest hospitals with comprehensive services are in Sylacauga (Coosa Valley Medical Center) and Alexander City (Russell Medical Center). During typical traffic conditions, the drive to Sylacauga via AL-9 takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The journey to Alexander City, also via AL-9, is slightly longer, averaging 30-35 minutes. These times can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, particularly during peak commuting hours or in the event of accidents.

Public transportation options are limited in Goodwater. Coosa County does not currently have a dedicated public transit system. This lack of readily available public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, or those unable to drive due to age, disability, or other health concerns. The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, placing additional burdens on individuals managing hypertension.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area, but their availability can be sporadic. The frequency of ride-share vehicles in Goodwater is lower than in more populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Individuals with hypertension often require regular check-ups and medication refills, making the financial burden of ride-sharing a potential obstacle to consistent healthcare access.

Medical transportation services are available, offering a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options. While they offer a vital lifeline for those unable to drive, the cost and scheduling complexities must be considered.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is another crucial aspect of the "Hypertension Score." The lack of public transportation with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features presents a challenge. Even with ride-sharing, the availability of vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids cannot be guaranteed. This underscores the importance of considering the accessibility of all transportation options when evaluating healthcare access in Goodwater.

The availability of local pharmacies is a positive factor. Goodwater has pharmacies where individuals can fill prescriptions for hypertension medications. This reduces the need for longer journeys for medication refills, providing a degree of convenience. However, access to a primary care physician or specialist remains a critical component of hypertension management.

Considering the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for Goodwater, Alabama, presents a mixed picture. While the town benefits from its proximity to Sylacauga and Alexander City, the limitations in transportation options pose a significant challenge. The lack of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services create barriers to healthcare access for many residents.

For individuals managing hypertension, the availability of reliable transportation is paramount. Consistent medical check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are essential for effective hypertension management. Without dependable transportation, these critical elements can become difficult to achieve, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes.

Moving to Goodwater requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive or have access to a vehicle. They should also explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services. Planning for healthcare access should be an integral part of the decision-making process.

Current residents can explore strategies to improve their healthcare access. This might involve coordinating transportation with family members or friends, utilizing medical transportation services when necessary, and advocating for improved transportation infrastructure in the community. Community initiatives aimed at providing transportation assistance to those in need can also play a vital role.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Goodwater highlights the importance of addressing transportation limitations to ensure that all residents have equitable access to healthcare. Improving transportation infrastructure, promoting ride-sharing, and supporting medical transportation services can significantly enhance healthcare access, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for individuals managing hypertension and other chronic conditions. The community's commitment to improving transportation options will be a key factor in the health and well-being of its residents.