35117, Mount Olive, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35117, Mount Olive, Alabama is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.55 percent of residents in 35117 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 32.60 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 35117

Moving to Mount Olive, Alabama, in ZIP Code 35117, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation options available, calculating a "Hypertension Score" based on the ease and efficiency of reaching medical care, considering the specific challenges posed by high blood pressure. The score, though subjective, aims to provide a realistic assessment of the daily commute to healthcare in this area.

The primary concern for those with hypertension is timely access to medical professionals and medications. Delays in receiving treatment can exacerbate the condition, leading to serious health complications. Therefore, the availability and reliability of transportation become critical factors in determining the quality of life and overall health outcomes for residents of 35117.

The "Hypertension Score" will be based on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing extremely limited access and 10 representing excellent access. This score will consider drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the default mode of transportation. The proximity of healthcare facilities significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." The primary routes to consider are US-78, a major thoroughfare, and I-22, providing access to Birmingham and surrounding areas. Local roads like Bradford Road and Mount Olive Road are also essential for shorter trips within the community.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are crucial. Brookwood Baptist Medical Center, in Homewood, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via I-22 and US-280, depending on traffic. St. Vincent's East, in Birmingham, is roughly a 35-50 minute drive, also via I-22 and US-78. UAB Hospital, a major medical center, is accessible in approximately 45-60 minutes via I-22 and I-65.

These drive times, while manageable, can be stressful for individuals with hypertension. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can elevate blood pressure. The "Hypertension Score" must reflect this reality, acknowledging the potential for increased stress during commutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in 35117 are limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), known as MAX, provides bus services, but coverage in this area is sparse. Route 28, which runs along US-78, is the most relevant route, but its frequency is limited, and its stops may not be conveniently located near residential areas or medical facilities.

The MAX buses do offer ADA-accessible features, including ramps and priority seating, which is a positive aspect for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the infrequent schedules and potential for long travel times significantly impact the "Hypertension Score." The reliance on public transit for healthcare access in this area is not ideal.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 35117, offering a more flexible alternative to public transportation. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and Priority Ambulance, are available for non-emergency medical transportation. These services are typically used for scheduled appointments and offer door-to-door service, which is a significant advantage for individuals with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive, and the need for advance booking can limit spontaneity.

**Calculating the "Hypertension Score":**

Considering all factors, the "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in 35117 is a 5 out of 10. The score is influenced by the following:

* **Drive Times:** While accessible, the drive times to major medical centers are moderate, and traffic congestion can be a concern.
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options significantly reduce the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services offer some flexibility but are limited by cost and availability.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services provide a valuable option but are expensive and require advance planning.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

For individuals with hypertension moving to Mount Olive, proactive planning is essential. Consider the following recommendations:

* **Choose a primary care physician:** Establish care with a local physician to facilitate early diagnosis and ongoing management.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Utilize telehealth services for routine check-ups and medication refills to reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **Plan transportation in advance:** Schedule rides with ride-sharing services or medical transport providers well in advance of appointments.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare:** When choosing a residence, prioritize locations with easy access to major roads and highways.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support efforts to expand public transportation options in the area.

**Conclusion:**

Living with hypertension in 35117 presents challenges related to transportation and healthcare access. While options exist, they are not always ideal. The "Hypertension Score" of 5 reflects the need for careful planning and proactive management. Residents should be aware of the limitations and utilize available resources to ensure timely access to medical care. By understanding the healthcare landscape and taking appropriate measures, individuals with hypertension can successfully navigate the challenges of moving to Mount Olive and maintain their health. The journey to healthcare access requires diligence, but with careful planning, residents can find the support they need to thrive.