35085, Jemison, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35085, Jemison, Alabama is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.68 percent of residents in 35085 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Chilton with a distance of 9.21 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35085 (Jemison, Alabama)**

Navigating the pathways to healthcare in Jemison, Alabama (ZIP code 35085), requires a careful consideration of transportation options. This analysis assesses the accessibility of medical facilities for residents, particularly those managing hypertension, a condition that demands timely and consistent care. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and specialized medical transport. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone considering moving to Jemison, ensuring that healthcare access aligns with their needs.

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Jemison are State Route 19 (SR-19) and County Road 42. These roadways connect Jemison to larger towns and cities, offering the most direct routes to healthcare providers. For residents without personal vehicles, the journey becomes more complex. Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are a critical component of the Hypertension Score, as they directly impact the speed with which someone can receive medical attention during a hypertensive crisis or for routine check-ups.

The drive to Chilton Medical Center in Clanton, the closest full-service hospital, typically takes approximately 20-25 minutes via SR-19. This timeframe is relatively manageable, but it can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Similarly, access to smaller clinics and specialty practices in Clanton and nearby areas is also primarily reliant on personal vehicles. The drive to Birmingham, a major medical hub, can take over an hour depending on traffic. This distance necessitates careful planning for appointments and potential emergencies.

Public transportation options in Jemison are limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town or connecting it to neighboring cities. This absence significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The lack of public transit is a considerable drawback, particularly for elderly residents or those with disabilities who may find it challenging to arrange transportation independently.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural locations. This uncertainty poses a challenge for individuals needing to schedule regular appointments or requiring immediate medical attention. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, further limiting their healthcare access.

Specialized medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services are crucial for those with mobility limitations or other health conditions that prevent them from driving or using other forms of transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may require advance booking.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of transportation options is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. While ride-sharing services are required to provide accessible vehicles upon request, the availability of these vehicles may be limited. The lack of public transit with ADA-compliant features further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing healthcare.

The Hypertension Score for Jemison, Alabama, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the drive times to nearby medical facilities are relatively short, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The availability of specialized medical transport services helps to mitigate some of these challenges, but the cost and availability of these services can be a concern.

For individuals with hypertension, consistent access to medical care is paramount. This includes regular check-ups, medication management, and timely access to emergency care. The transportation challenges in Jemison can make it difficult for residents to adhere to their treatment plans, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes.

When considering moving to Jemison, individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess their ability to access healthcare services. Owning a personal vehicle is highly recommended, as it provides the most reliable and convenient means of transportation. If a personal vehicle is not an option, individuals should investigate the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options.

Furthermore, individuals should consider the location of their healthcare providers and the ease with which they can be reached from their homes. Living closer to medical facilities or selecting a home near major roadways can improve healthcare access.

The local community can play a role in improving healthcare access. Initiatives to promote public transportation, expand ride-sharing services, and increase the availability of medical transport options can significantly benefit residents, especially those with chronic conditions like hypertension. Community support for these initiatives can help to create a more accessible and supportive healthcare environment.

The Hypertension Score for Jemison is not static; it is subject to change based on developments in transportation infrastructure and healthcare services. Regular updates to this analysis are essential to ensure that residents have accurate information about healthcare access.

In conclusion, while Jemison offers a relatively manageable drive time to some healthcare facilities, the lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present notable challenges for healthcare access, particularly for individuals with hypertension. Careful planning, awareness of available resources, and community support are essential to ensure that all residents can receive the timely and consistent medical care they need.