35147, Sterrett, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.90 percent of residents in 35147 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 19.02 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sterrett, Alabama (ZIP Code 35147)

Sterrett, Alabama, a community nestled in the rolling hills of St. Clair County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up, framed as a "Hypertension Score" analysis, delves into the intricacies of transportation options available for residents of ZIP Code 35147, focusing on the time, accessibility, and practicalities of reaching essential medical care. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding for both current residents and those contemplating moving to Sterrett, helping them assess the feasibility of managing their health needs within the context of their daily commute.

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the availability of accessible medical facilities. In the context of hypertension management, this means regular check-ups, medication refills, and the potential for specialist consultations. In Sterrett, the closest primary care physicians and pharmacies are primarily located in nearby cities like Pell City and Leeds. The primary arteries of transportation are Interstate 20 (I-20), a major east-west thoroughfare, and U.S. Highway 78, which provides a more direct route to Pell City.

Driving times are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. A typical drive to Pell City, where several medical practices and pharmacies are situated, can range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Sterrett. Traveling to Leeds, which also offers healthcare options, might take a similar amount of time, but can be affected by congestion near the I-20 exits. These drive times, while manageable, need to be considered in the context of a patient's overall health and ability to drive, particularly during times of illness or emergency.

Public transportation options are limited in Sterrett. The absence of a comprehensive bus system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This lack of public transit underscores the importance of understanding alternative transportation solutions. While the absence of fixed-route buses is a negative factor in our score, we'll explore other options that can help mitigate this deficiency.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative, although their availability and cost can vary. In a rural area like Sterrett, the response times for ride-sharing services might be longer than in urban centers, and the fares could be higher, particularly during peak hours or for longer distances. These factors must be carefully considered when assessing the viability of ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, provide another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies like Medical Transport Services and First Choice Medical Transport operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services often require advance booking and may involve a co-pay, but they provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or utilize other transportation options. The availability of these services is a positive factor in our score, but the reliance on pre-arranged bookings adds a layer of complexity.

For those considering moving to Sterrett, the availability of accessible healthcare should be a paramount consideration. The Hypertension Score should include an assessment of the distance to the nearest emergency room, the availability of pharmacies for medication refills, and the proximity of specialists like cardiologists or nephrologists, who are vital for managing hypertension. The ease of transportation to these facilities is a key component of the score.

The physical condition of the roads and highways also influences the Hypertension Score. Well-maintained roads, such as those on I-20 and U.S. 78, are crucial for safe and efficient travel. Poor road conditions can increase travel times, potentially exacerbate health conditions, and pose safety risks, particularly for individuals with mobility issues. The condition of local roads within Sterrett itself also impacts the ease of access to transportation options.

The presence of ADA-compliant features in public transportation, if available, is a critical factor for individuals with disabilities. While the absence of a comprehensive bus system in Sterrett is a negative, the availability of medical transport services, which often provide accessible vehicles, can partially compensate for this deficit. The ability to easily access and utilize these services is an important aspect of the Hypertension Score.

The cost of transportation is another critical factor. The cost of gasoline, ride-sharing fares, and medical transport services can quickly add up, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions who require frequent medical appointments. These costs can impact a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan and access necessary care. The affordability of transportation options is a significant consideration in the overall Hypertension Score.

The availability of telehealth services is an increasingly important aspect of healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. The availability of reliable internet access in Sterrett is therefore a positive factor in our score, as it enables the use of telehealth services.

The overall Hypertension Score for Sterrett, Alabama (35147) would reflect a nuanced picture. While the drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the lack of public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges. The availability of medical transport, telehealth, and the well-maintained highways are positive factors. Individuals considering moving to Sterrett should carefully evaluate their transportation needs, their ability to drive, and the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare. A proactive approach to planning transportation, including researching ride-sharing options, medical transport providers, and telehealth services, is essential for successful hypertension management in this community.