35091, Kimberly, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35091, Kimberly, Alabama is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.20 percent of residents in 35091 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cullman Regional Medical Center with a distance of 28.11 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kimberly, Alabama (ZIP Code 35091)

Moving to Kimberly, Alabama (ZIP Code 35091), offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the bustling city of Birmingham. However, assessing healthcare access is crucial, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a detailed "Hypertension Score" evaluation, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. This analysis aims to help prospective residents understand the practical realities of accessing healthcare within and around Kimberly, facilitating informed decisions regarding their well-being.

The cornerstone of healthcare access lies in readily available transportation. For residents of Kimberly, the primary mode of transport to healthcare providers will undoubtedly be personal vehicles. The town's layout and surrounding infrastructure heavily favor driving. The major artery connecting Kimberly to Birmingham is Interstate 65 (I-65). This highway provides a relatively direct route to numerous hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices located in the city.

Drive times to these facilities vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, which can fluctuate considerably during peak hours. A typical drive to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, a major medical center, could range from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic on I-65. Other hospitals, such as St. Vincent's Birmingham, might be accessible within a similar timeframe, also via I-65 and connecting roads. Local clinics and urgent care facilities, often located in neighboring communities like Gardendale or Fultondale, offer quicker access, with drive times potentially under 15 minutes, utilizing roads like US-31 and Walker Chapel Road.

While personal vehicles remain the dominant mode, public transportation options exist, albeit with limitations. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, provides bus service throughout the metropolitan area. However, direct routes from Kimberly to major healthcare facilities are scarce. Residents would likely need to utilize a combination of routes, involving transfers, which can significantly extend travel times.

The primary MAX route serving the general area is Route 43, which runs along US-31, providing a connection to downtown Birmingham. From there, passengers can transfer to other routes to reach hospitals or clinics. The feasibility of using public transit for regular healthcare appointments, especially for individuals managing hypertension who may require frequent check-ups, necessitates careful consideration. The extended travel times and potential for delays can pose challenges.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with mobility impairments is a critical factor. BJCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the practicality of navigating transfers and potential walking distances to and from bus stops must be evaluated. The availability of accessible transportation is a vital component of the "Hypertension Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, providing a degree of flexibility compared to public transit. The availability and cost of these services in Kimberly and the surrounding areas should be assessed. Ride-sharing can offer a more convenient way to travel to healthcare appointments, particularly when direct routes are unavailable via public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs also play a crucial role. Several companies operate in the Birmingham area, offering non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically involve transportation in specialized vehicles equipped with necessary medical equipment and assistance. The availability of these services in Kimberly and their coverage area is essential to consider.

The "Hypertension Score" also encompasses the availability of local pharmacies for medication refills and the proximity of urgent care facilities for immediate medical needs. Access to pharmacies within Kimberly or nearby communities is crucial for managing hypertension effectively. The presence of urgent care facilities provides a safety net for acute medical issues.

Evaluating the "Hypertension Score" for Kimberly, Alabama, requires a holistic assessment of all these factors. While the town offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare is a key consideration. The limited public transit options and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing services must be weighed. The availability of medical transportation services and the proximity of pharmacies and urgent care facilities contribute to a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Kimberly, especially those managing hypertension, a thorough understanding of these transportation and healthcare access considerations is paramount. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions, ensuring that healthcare needs can be met effectively and conveniently. It is recommended that prospective residents research the specific locations of their preferred healthcare providers and assess the feasibility of different transportation options based on their individual circumstances and needs. Careful planning is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being in this charming Alabama community.