The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35443, Boligee, Alabama is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
26.95 percent of residents in 35443 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 9.22 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 35443, Boligee, Alabama
Hypertension Score | 2 |
---|---|
People Score | 15 |
Provider Score | 9 |
Hospital Score | 37 |
Travel Score | 16 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 35443 | Boligee | Alabama |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 11.89 | 11.89 | 1.85 |
1 Car | 25.17 | 25.17 | 18.18 |
2 Cars | 19.58 | 19.58 | 39.34 |
3 or More Cars | 43.36 | 43.36 | 40.63 |
Vehicular Access in 35443, Boligee, Alabama
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Boligee, Alabama (ZIP Code 35443)
The journey to managing hypertension, a condition often exacerbated by stress and lack of access, requires a clear understanding of the transportation landscape. This write-up analyzes the challenges and opportunities for residents of Boligee, Alabama (ZIP Code 35443) seeking healthcare, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. We’ll assess the accessibility of medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers. This information is crucial for residents already facing health challenges, and particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Boligee.
The primary healthcare provider for Boligee residents is likely to be Greene County Hospital in Eutaw, approximately 12 miles away. The most direct route involves traveling north on Alabama State Route 14, a two-lane road that can experience moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. Drive times typically range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the driver’s speed. This relatively short distance offers a reasonable level of healthcare access for those with personal vehicles. However, the reliance on personal vehicles immediately presents a challenge for individuals without one.
Alternative routes to Greene County Hospital exist, though they typically involve longer travel times. Residents might consider taking County Road 20 to connect with Alabama State Route 14, adding several minutes to the journey. The condition of these secondary roads can vary, potentially impacting travel times and the safety of those with mobility limitations. The limited road network in Boligee highlights the area's dependence on personal vehicles for transportation to healthcare appointments.
Public transportation options in Boligee are extremely limited. The Greene County Transit Authority might offer demand-response services, but these are often restricted to specific routes and require advance booking. Information on routes and schedules is not readily available online, which presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without internet access or the ability to navigate complex booking systems. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the Hypertension Score for residents of Boligee.
The absence of readily available public transportation necessitates exploring other options, such as ride-sharing services. Uber and Lyft, while operating in larger cities, may have limited availability in rural areas like Boligee. The presence of these services cannot be guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late at night. This uncertainty further complicates healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. Several medical transport providers may serve the Boligee area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. However, the availability of these services can vary, and booking in advance is almost always required. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access for low-income residents.
The accessibility of pharmacies is another critical factor influencing the Hypertension Score. Residents of Boligee may need to travel to Eutaw or other nearby towns to fill prescriptions. This adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, as it requires planning for transportation to both medical appointments and pharmacy visits. The availability of medication adherence programs and pharmacy consultations, crucial for managing hypertension, might be limited in the area, further impacting patient outcomes.
The overall picture reveals a complex landscape for healthcare access in Boligee. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers for residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle. This situation underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration for individuals considering moving to Boligee, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.
The stress associated with navigating transportation challenges can directly impact blood pressure levels, exacerbating the very condition that healthcare access is intended to address. This creates a vicious cycle, where lack of access to timely and reliable transportation worsens health outcomes. The Hypertension Score for Boligee, therefore, is negatively affected by the transportation limitations.
For individuals considering moving to Boligee, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and available resources is essential. This includes evaluating the reliability of personal transportation, exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and understanding the limitations of public transit options. The ability to secure reliable transportation is paramount to successfully managing hypertension and maintaining overall health.
The local community and healthcare providers could explore opportunities to improve healthcare access. This might involve advocating for increased public transportation options, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, or establishing a community-based transportation program specifically for healthcare needs. Such initiatives could significantly improve the Hypertension Score for Boligee residents.
Furthermore, telemedicine could play a vital role in bridging the healthcare access gap. Expanding access to telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, could reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, thereby mitigating the transportation challenges. However, this requires ensuring that residents have reliable internet access and the necessary digital literacy skills.
The journey to manage hypertension in Boligee is undeniably intertwined with the availability and accessibility of transportation. Addressing the transportation challenges through strategic initiatives and innovative solutions is crucial for improving healthcare access and promoting the well-being of the community. The future of healthcare in Boligee hinges on the ability to overcome these transportation barriers, ensuring that all residents can receive the care they need, when they need it.
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