35476, Northport, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35476, Northport, Alabama is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.98 percent of residents in 35476 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 32.08 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Northport, Alabama (ZIP Code 35476)

Considering a move to Northport, Alabama (ZIP Code 35476)? Beyond the charming Southern atmosphere and burgeoning community, understanding **healthcare access** is crucial, especially for individuals managing conditions like hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" framework, evaluating the ease of **transportation** to essential medical services, helping you assess the practicality of your move. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing capabilities, painting a comprehensive picture of navigating **healthcare** within and around Northport.

Northport, nestled in the heart of Tuscaloosa County, offers a blend of residential tranquility and proximity to the larger city of Tuscaloosa. The "Hypertension Score" considers the critical factors influencing a hypertensive patient's ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. These include travel time to physician appointments, pharmacy access, and the availability of specialized medical services.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

The primary arteries for **transportation** in and out of Northport are US Highway 82 and Alabama Highway 69. These roads are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities in Tuscaloosa. Driving times are significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours. The University of Alabama's campus, a major employment center, often contributes to congestion.

From Northport, reaching DCH Regional Medical Center, the largest hospital in the area, typically takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey involves navigating US-82 East or McFarland Boulevard, a major thoroughfare in Tuscaloosa. Similarly, accessing specialized clinics and physician offices located along McFarland Boulevard or near the University of Alabama campus also falls within this time frame.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities located within Northport offer convenient options, reducing travel time to under 10 minutes for many residents. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, often necessitates travel to Tuscaloosa, making understanding drive times essential.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

The Tuscaloosa Area Rapid Transit System (TART) provides public **transportation** within the city and to some extent, serves Northport. However, its coverage and frequency are limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. For individuals relying on public transit, **healthcare access** can be more challenging.

TART routes serving Northport include routes 1, 2, and 10. These routes offer connections to Tuscaloosa, including stops near DCH Regional Medical Center and various medical offices. However, the frequency of these routes can be a limiting factor, with wait times potentially exceeding 30 minutes, depending on the time of day.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration. TART buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. Planning your journey and allowing ample time for travel is crucial.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Northport and Tuscaloosa, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand **transportation** to **healthcare** appointments and pharmacies. However, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical **transportation** services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they offer a more reliable and convenient option for individuals with limited mobility or complex medical needs. Several providers operate in the area, including local ambulance companies and specialized medical **transportation** services. Researching and comparing prices and services is recommended.

**Pharmacies: Medication Access**

Pharmacy access is a critical component of **healthcare access** for hypertensive patients. Several pharmacies are located within Northport, including national chains and local pharmacies. These pharmacies offer prescription filling services, medication counseling, and over-the-counter medications.

Access to pharmacies in Tuscaloosa is also readily available, increasing the options for medication refills and consultations. The drive times to these pharmacies are typically within the same range as accessing medical offices, making medication access relatively convenient for most residents.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" is not a single number but a holistic assessment considering all the factors discussed. It incorporates drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. The score also considers the proximity of pharmacies and the availability of specialized medical care.

For individuals with hypertension, the score would be influenced by the following: the need for frequent medical appointments, the availability of specialized care, and the ability to access medication refills. The score would be higher (indicating better access) for individuals who can drive and have easy access to a car. It would be lower for those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations.

**Moving to Northport: Considerations for Hypertensive Patients**

For individuals considering **moving to Northport**, understanding the "Hypertension Score" is essential. If you are managing hypertension, assess your ability to drive or utilize ride-sharing services. Evaluate the proximity of your preferred healthcare providers and pharmacies. Consider the frequency of your appointments and the need for specialized care.

If you rely on public transit, factor in the travel times and route availability. If you have mobility limitations, research medical **transportation** options. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Northport offers the **healthcare access** you need.

**Conclusion: A Community in Transition**

Northport offers a blend of suburban living and proximity to a larger city. While **healthcare access** is generally good, particularly for those who can drive, individuals managing hypertension should carefully consider the **transportation** options available. By evaluating the "Hypertension Score," you can make an informed decision about **moving to Northport** and ensure you can receive the timely and consistent medical care you need. The community is evolving, with potential for improvements in public transit and healthcare services, making it a dynamic place to consider for your future.