35552, Detroit, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35552, Detroit, Alabama is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.93 percent of residents in 35552 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Marion Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.30 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35552**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical consideration, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 35552, examines the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare accessibility, specifically for those requiring regular medical attention related to hypertension. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this area, offering insights relevant to both current residents and those considering moving to Detroit, or its surrounding areas, seeking improved healthcare options.

ZIP code 35552, nestled within the broader Detroit metropolitan area, presents a diverse transportation environment. Assessing the accessibility of healthcare facilities requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors such as drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transportation services. This evaluation aims to provide a clear picture of the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments and manage their hypertension effectively.

**Driving the Landscape**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries of transportation in and around 35552 include major highways and local roads. Interstate 94 (I-94) serves as a vital east-west corridor, offering direct access to numerous healthcare facilities located in Detroit and its surrounding suburbs. However, peak traffic hours can significantly extend commute times, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. Local roads such as Gratiot Avenue, Kelly Road, and Eight Mile Road provide alternative routes, but they are often subject to congestion and traffic signals, potentially adding to the overall travel time.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the time of day. A trip to a hospital or specialist located in downtown Detroit, for instance, could take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-94. Traveling to clinics or urgent care centers closer to 35552, such as those located along Gratiot Avenue, might involve a shorter commute, perhaps 10 to 20 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Balancing Act**

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) provides public transit services within the city and surrounding areas, offering an alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve 35552, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. Route 53 (Gratiot) and Route 40 (Kelly Road) are among the most frequently used options, providing access to hospitals, clinics, and medical offices along their respective corridors.

While public transit offers a valuable service, it presents certain limitations. Bus schedules may not always align with appointment times, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving due to multiple stops and potential delays. Furthermore, the availability of accessible features, such as ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, is crucial. DDOT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, but the reliability of these features can vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services specialize in providing transportation for patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting to and from their appointments. Several medical transportation companies operate in the Detroit area, including those offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

The accessibility of healthcare facilities is a critical factor in managing hypertension effectively. Regular medical check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling are essential components of hypertension care. Individuals residing in 35552 must consider the time and effort required to reach their healthcare providers.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology clinics, pharmacies, and diagnostic imaging centers, also influences healthcare access. Residents should assess the proximity of these services and the ease with which they can be reached.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

To evaluate healthcare access for individuals with hypertension in 35552, a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" can be developed. This score considers various factors, including drive times to healthcare facilities, the frequency and reliability of public transit routes, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options.

The score can be further refined by incorporating data on the availability of specialized hypertension care providers, such as cardiologists and hypertension specialists, within a reasonable distance. The score should also reflect the accessibility of pharmacies and other essential services.

**Moving to Detroit: A Perspective on Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Detroit, or its surrounding areas, the transportation landscape and healthcare access are crucial factors to evaluate. ZIP code 35552 offers a mixed bag of transportation options, with driving being the most convenient, but public transit and ride-sharing services provide alternatives.

Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare facilities in their chosen area, paying close attention to the commute times and transportation options. They should also consider the availability of specialized hypertension care providers and the accessibility of essential services.

**Conclusion**

Managing hypertension effectively requires seamless access to healthcare. The transportation landscape in 35552 presents both challenges and opportunities for residents. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services provide alternative options.

The development of a "Hypertension Score" can help residents assess the accessibility of healthcare and make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. By carefully evaluating the transportation options and healthcare resources available, individuals with hypertension can improve their healthcare management and quality of life. This analysis underscores the importance of transportation in healthcare access, particularly for those considering moving to Detroit, or its surrounding areas, and prioritizing their health needs.