35470, Livingston, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35470, Livingston, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.39 percent of residents in 35470 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 24.35 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Livingston, Alabama (ZIP Code 35470)

Livingston, Alabama, a town nestled in the heart of Sumter County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the intricacies of transportation options within ZIP code 35470, offering insights for both current residents and those considering moving to Livingston. The goal is to illuminate the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access, specifically for those requiring consistent medical attention for hypertension.

The cornerstone of this assessment is understanding the transportation infrastructure. For those with hypertension, timely and reliable transportation is paramount. The ability to reach medical appointments, pick up prescriptions, and access emergency care can significantly impact health outcomes. Therefore, this analysis will consider drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Livingston are US Highway 80 and US Highway 11. These roadways are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and other essential services. The drive time to the nearest major healthcare provider, Sumter County Medical Center, located in Livingston, is generally short for most residents. However, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code, travel times can vary.

For those residing on the outskirts of Livingston or in more rural areas, the drive to the medical center might extend to 15-20 minutes. This timeframe is generally manageable, but it's crucial to factor in potential delays due to traffic, especially during peak hours. Accessing specialized care or larger hospitals in nearby cities like Tuscaloosa (approximately 80 miles east) or Meridian, Mississippi (approximately 70 miles west) necessitates longer drives, typically exceeding an hour.

Road conditions also play a role. While US Highway 80 and US Highway 11 are generally well-maintained, secondary roads might be less so, especially after inclement weather. This can impact travel times and pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those relying on older vehicles. Therefore, understanding the specific road conditions in one's area is crucial for planning healthcare transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Livingston are limited. The availability of a robust public transit system can be a significant factor in healthcare access, particularly for those who do not drive or cannot afford a personal vehicle. Unfortunately, the public transit infrastructure in ZIP code 35470 is not extensive.

Information regarding specific bus routes, frequency of service, and ADA accessibility features is scarce. This dearth of information presents a significant challenge for individuals who depend on public transit. The absence of readily available public transportation options necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transport, which may not always be readily accessible or affordable.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in Livingston is uncertain. The presence of these services can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another potential resource. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Investigating the availability of medical transportation providers in the area is crucial.

**Medical Transportation Providers:**

Determining the availability of medical transportation providers is critical for residents of Livingston. Potential providers may include local ambulance services, specialized medical transport companies, or volunteer organizations. Researching and contacting these providers to understand their services, coverage area, and pricing is essential.

**Impact on Hypertension Management:**

The transportation landscape in Livingston directly impacts the management of hypertension. Regular medical appointments, medication refills, and access to emergency care are vital for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications. The challenges associated with transportation can create barriers to these essential healthcare services.

Individuals with hypertension may face difficulties in adhering to their prescribed treatment plans if transportation is unreliable or inaccessible. This can lead to missed appointments, delayed medication refills, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. The "Hypertension Score" for Livingston reflects the need for improved transportation options.

**Factors to Consider When Moving to Livingston:**

For those considering moving to Livingston, the transportation infrastructure should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents with hypertension should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare services, taking into account drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation.

Evaluating the proximity to healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and other essential services is crucial. Researching the availability of transportation assistance programs or support networks can also be beneficial. Understanding the local transportation landscape is essential for ensuring access to the care needed to manage hypertension effectively.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving healthcare access in Livingston requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, particularly with ADA accessibility, would significantly benefit residents. Encouraging ride-sharing services to operate in the area could also improve accessibility.

Supporting medical transportation providers and raising awareness of their services is essential. Furthermore, community initiatives that provide transportation assistance to individuals with chronic conditions, such as hypertension, can play a crucial role. Addressing these issues will enhance the quality of life for residents and improve health outcomes for those managing hypertension.

**Conclusion:**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 35470 reflects a landscape where transportation challenges can hinder healthcare access. While the proximity to local healthcare facilities is generally good, the limitations in public transit and the uncertainty surrounding ride-sharing services pose significant obstacles. For individuals with hypertension, navigating this landscape requires careful planning and a proactive approach to securing reliable transportation. Addressing these challenges through infrastructure improvements, service expansions, and community support will be vital for ensuring that all residents of Livingston have access to the healthcare they need. The health and well-being of the community hinges on the ability to move to healthcare.