35216, Birmingham, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35216, Birmingham, Alabama is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.99 percent of residents in 35216 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brookwood Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 3.12 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 35216

Considering a move to Birmingham, Alabama, and concerned about healthcare access, particularly if you have hypertension? This analysis, tailored for ZIP code 35216, provides a "Hypertension Score" by evaluating transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for managing this chronic condition. Timely access to appointments, medication refills, and emergency care significantly impacts hypertension management. This write-up explores the landscape of transportation, weighing factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

The 35216 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area, including parts of East Lake, Roebuck, and Huffman. Its location presents both advantages and challenges regarding healthcare access. The primary thoroughfares, Interstate 20 (I-20) and Interstate 59 (I-59), offer relatively quick routes to major medical centers, yet traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

From central 35216, a drive to UAB Hospital, a leading healthcare provider, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route involves taking I-20 West to I-65 South. However, morning and afternoon commutes can easily extend this time. Other routes, such as utilizing Crestwood Boulevard or Oporto Avenue, offer alternative pathways, but they may also experience congestion.

St. Vincent's East, another major hospital, is generally closer, with a drive time of 10-15 minutes via I-20 East and then onto Crestwood Boulevard. This proximity is a definite advantage for residents in the eastern parts of 35216. For those needing specialized care, Children's of Alabama, located near UAB Hospital, is accessible via the same routes, though the drive time will be slightly longer, typically 20-30 minutes.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Birmingham Bus System**

The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), operating as MAX, provides public transportation within the city. Several bus routes serve the 35216 area, offering an alternative to driving. However, public transit in Birmingham presents limitations. The frequency of buses can be a significant drawback, particularly during evenings and weekends. The reliance on bus schedules requires careful planning for medical appointments.

Route 20, the Roebuck/East Lake route, is a key route serving the area. While it doesn’t directly connect to major hospitals, it provides access to transfer points where riders can connect to routes that reach UAB Hospital and St. Vincent's. Route 14, the Crestwood/Southside route, offers a direct route to St. Vincent's East.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. All MAX buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations for passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall travel time can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The MAX website and app provide detailed information on route schedules, accessibility features, and real-time bus tracking.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services are readily available in Birmingham and provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate bus routes or parking challenges. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it can be a convenient alternative, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to.

Medical transport services specifically cater to individuals with healthcare needs. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and CareRide offer such services in the Birmingham area. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport.

**Evaluating the Hypertension Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for 35216 considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each transportation mode. The score reflects the potential challenges and opportunities for individuals with hypertension seeking timely and reliable healthcare access.

**Factors impacting the score include:**

* **Drive Times:** Relatively short drive times to major hospitals, particularly St. Vincent's East, offer a significant advantage. However, traffic congestion can negatively impact this.
* **Public Transit:** While the MAX bus system offers an alternative, its limitations in frequency and route coverage can create challenges.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** These options provide flexibility and convenience but come with associated costs.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The availability of local pharmacies for medication refills is also considered.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to 35216, careful planning is essential. Assess your transportation needs and preferences. If you rely on public transit, familiarize yourself with the MAX routes and schedules. If you prefer driving, be mindful of traffic patterns.

Consider the proximity of your residence to healthcare facilities and pharmacies. Explore the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**The Score:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for 35216 is moderately positive. The relatively short drive times to hospitals and the availability of ride-sharing services are beneficial. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion require careful consideration.

This analysis provides a starting point for evaluating healthcare access in 35216. Further research, including contacting local healthcare providers and transportation services, will provide a more personalized assessment, ensuring a smooth transition to healthcare in Birmingham. Remember, proactive planning is key to managing hypertension effectively and thriving in your new community.