35143, Shelby, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35143, Shelby, Alabama is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.79 percent of residents in 35143 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Coosa Valley Medical Center with a distance of 17.25 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35143

Understanding the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension, is crucial for assessing overall well-being. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 35143, a community nestled in Shelby County, Alabama, and evaluates its "Hypertension Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare facilities, with a specific emphasis on transportation options. This score reflects the degree to which residents can conveniently and efficiently reach medical care, a critical factor in managing hypertension and promoting community health.

The primary determinant of the Hypertension Score is the time and effort required to reach healthcare providers. This includes physician offices, clinics, and hospitals equipped to diagnose, treat, and manage hypertension. The analysis considers various transportation modes, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Each mode is assessed for its availability, travel time, cost, and accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities residents of 35143 face in accessing vital healthcare services.

For residents of 35143, the dominant mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities significantly influence the Hypertension Score. The primary roadways serving the area are Interstate 65 (I-65), which provides north-south access, and U.S. Highway 31 (US-31), a major thoroughfare running parallel to I-65. Other key roads include Shelby County 11 (Shelby County 11), Shelby County 42 (Shelby County 42), and Shelby County 47 (Shelby County 47), which connect to local communities and healthcare providers.

Driving to the nearest hospitals, such as Shelby Baptist Medical Center in Alabaster and Brookwood Baptist Medical Center in Birmingham, can range from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within 35143. During peak hours, congestion on I-65 and US-31 can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting the ability of individuals with hypertension to receive timely medical attention. The Hypertension Score will reflect this variability.

Public transportation options in Shelby County are limited but present. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, operates bus routes that serve parts of Shelby County. However, the coverage in 35143 is sparse. Several routes, including the 14 (Crestline), the 20 (Five Points South), and the 42 (Shelby County), offer some connectivity.

These routes, while offering a cost-effective alternative, may not provide direct access to all healthcare facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor in the Hypertension Score, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, longer travel times and the need for transfers can make public transit less convenient for individuals with hypertension, especially those experiencing acute symptoms. The lack of comprehensive public transit, therefore, negatively impacts the Hypertension Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The availability of ride-sharing services in 35143 and their associated costs will be factored into the Hypertension Score. The reliance on ride-sharing, however, may also be a negative factor.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals requiring assistance, are also available. These services, such as MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR), provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. They are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options. The availability, cost, and efficiency of medical transport services will be considered in the Hypertension Score.

The proximity of healthcare facilities within 35143 is a critical factor. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within the community reduces the need for long-distance travel. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology services, may require travel to facilities outside the immediate area. The Hypertension Score will reflect the density of healthcare providers within and near 35143.

The demographic characteristics of the population in 35143 also influence the Hypertension Score. Factors such as age, income, and disability rates affect the ability of residents to access healthcare. For example, elderly residents or those with disabilities may face greater challenges in transportation. The Hypertension Score considers these demographic factors to provide a more nuanced assessment of healthcare access.

The overall Hypertension Score for 35143 will be a composite measure, integrating the various factors discussed. The score will range from 0 to 100, with a higher score indicating better access to healthcare. A score of 100 would represent ideal conditions, with readily available and accessible transportation options, a high density of healthcare providers, and a population with minimal transportation barriers. A lower score would indicate significant challenges in accessing healthcare, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes for residents.

The Hypertension Score is a dynamic measure, subject to change based on infrastructure improvements, changes in transportation options, and shifts in the healthcare landscape. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the score accurately reflects the realities of healthcare access in 35143. This analysis is not just a snapshot of current conditions but a tool for understanding and addressing the transportation and healthcare access needs of the community.

For individuals considering moving to Shelby County, particularly to 35143, understanding the Hypertension Score is crucial. It provides valuable insights into the ease with which they can maintain their health and manage chronic conditions like hypertension. The score can inform decisions about where to live, considering the availability of healthcare services and transportation options.

The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations. It can be used to identify areas where improvements are needed, such as expanding public transit, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, or promoting the development of healthcare facilities within the community. By addressing the challenges identified by the score, the community can improve healthcare access and promote the overall health and well-being of its residents.