35148, Sumiton, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35148, Sumiton, Alabama is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.08 percent of residents in 35148 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 43.90 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Sumiton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35148)

Moving to Sumiton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35148) presents a unique set of considerations, particularly concerning healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention and medication adherence. We will explore the transportation landscape, from personal vehicles to public transit, evaluating its impact on healthcare access within this specific ZIP code.

The core of the "Hypertension Score" lies in understanding the practicalities of getting to and from medical appointments. This is especially crucial for individuals with hypertension, who often need regular check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills. The ability to readily access healthcare directly impacts the management of this chronic condition and ultimately, the individual's quality of life.

**Driving the Distance: The Highway to Healthcare**

Sumiton, nestled in Walker County, is primarily served by personal vehicles. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are U.S. Highway 78 and Alabama State Route 124. Traveling east on Highway 78 leads towards Birmingham, the regional hub for specialized medical care. This journey, however, can be time-consuming. During peak traffic hours, the commute can easily extend beyond an hour, significantly impacting the ability to attend timely appointments.

Alternatively, heading west on Highway 78 provides access to healthcare facilities in Jasper, the county seat. The drive to Jasper is generally shorter, often taking around 20-30 minutes. Route 124 offers a more direct route to Jasper, but the road is narrower and may experience higher congestion during school hours. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can also affect travel times and safety.

The drive-time factor is a critical component of the "Hypertension Score." The longer the commute, the greater the potential for appointment delays, increased stress, and reduced adherence to treatment plans. This is further compounded by the potential for unexpected traffic incidents, which can significantly disrupt scheduled medical visits.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Sumiton are limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), known as MAX, does not directly service Sumiton. This absence of a robust public transit system poses a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. For those who rely on public transit, healthcare access becomes considerably more challenging.

The lack of public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative methods, such as ride-sharing services. However, availability and affordability of ride-sharing can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited service coverage.

The "Hypertension Score" must account for the absence of reliable public transit. This significantly impacts the ability of individuals, particularly those with mobility limitations or financial constraints, to attend medical appointments regularly. The absence of ADA-compliant public transit options further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a potential solution for healthcare transportation. However, availability is not always guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver presence. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals with fixed incomes or limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, availability and eligibility for NEMT services vary depending on insurance coverage and individual circumstances.

The "Hypertension Score" must consider the reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport. While these options can bridge the gap in transportation access, they often come with limitations in terms of cost, availability, and scheduling flexibility.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Consideration**

The "Hypertension Score" is not simply a measure of transportation options; it is a reflection of healthcare access. The ability to readily access medical care is paramount for individuals managing hypertension. This includes not only the ability to get to and from appointments but also the availability of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other essential services within a reasonable distance.

Sumiton residents have access to local clinics and pharmacies, providing essential services for managing hypertension. However, the availability of specialized medical care, such as cardiology and nephrology, may require travel to larger medical centers in Birmingham or Jasper.

The "Hypertension Score" incorporates the proximity and accessibility of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other essential services. The availability of these resources directly impacts the ability of individuals with hypertension to receive timely and appropriate care.

**The "Hypertension Score" Summary**

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Sumiton (ZIP Code 35148) reveals a mixed picture. While the area offers access to local healthcare providers and pharmacies, the transportation landscape presents significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit options, can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or have mobility limitations.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative solutions, but these options may come with limitations in terms of cost, availability, and scheduling flexibility. The drive times to larger medical centers in Birmingham or Jasper can be lengthy, potentially impacting appointment adherence and overall healthcare management.

Moving to Sumiton requires a careful assessment of healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of considering transportation factors when evaluating the suitability of this community for individuals with chronic health conditions. Further investment in public transportation or ride-sharing subsidies could significantly improve healthcare access for Sumiton residents, enhancing their ability to manage their health effectively and improve their quality of life. The development of telehealth services and expanded access to home healthcare could also mitigate the transportation challenges, offering alternative avenues for accessing essential medical care.