35564, Hackleburg, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35564, Hackleburg, Alabama is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.83 percent of residents in 35564 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lakeland Community Hospital with a distance of 13.06 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hackleburg, Alabama (ZIP Code 35564)

The journey to managing hypertension in Hackleburg, Alabama (ZIP code 35564) is a multifaceted one, intricately woven with threads of transportation and healthcare access. This write-up delves into the realities of navigating the local landscape, offering a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking effective hypertension management. This is especially relevant for those considering moving to Hackleburg, offering a crucial insight into the healthcare environment.

Hackleburg itself is a small, rural community. Its geographical isolation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The availability and accessibility of medical services are directly influenced by the transportation options available. This analysis will examine the current transportation landscape, evaluate its impact on healthcare access, and ultimately, provide a framework for understanding the "Hypertension Score" in this specific context.

**The Road Less Traveled: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The nearest major medical facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics, are located in surrounding towns and cities. The primary arteries connecting Hackleburg to these vital resources are State Route 17 (SR-17) and U.S. Route 43 (US-43).

Traveling to the Northwest Medical Center in Winfield, approximately 15 miles south via SR-17, typically takes about 20-30 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This drive is generally straightforward, but the winding roads can be challenging, especially during inclement weather. Residents must consider the added time for potential delays, impacting their ability to adhere to medication schedules and appointments.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger cities like Tupelo, Mississippi, or Birmingham, Alabama. Reaching Tupelo, approximately 60 miles west, requires navigating US-43 and typically takes around an hour and fifteen minutes. Birmingham, roughly 100 miles southeast, is a significantly longer journey, averaging two to two and a half hours, primarily via US-43 and Interstate 22 (I-22). These longer travel times introduce additional complexities for those with hypertension, potentially exacerbating stress and impacting their ability to receive timely care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Hackleburg are extremely limited. There is no established bus route system within the town itself. The lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or have limited financial resources.

The closest available public transit options might be found in larger cities like Tupelo or Birmingham, but these would require a significant drive to reach the transit hub, negating the convenience of public transit for local healthcare access. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for any public transit options. Without a robust public transit infrastructure, healthcare access becomes significantly more challenging for a substantial portion of the population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Hackleburg. This further restricts transportation options, particularly for those unable to drive or who do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of these services underscores the transportation challenges faced by residents seeking healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several NEMT providers operate in the region, serving areas including Hackleburg. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs, which could be a barrier for some.

The availability of NEMT services is a positive factor in the "Hypertension Score" calculation, but the reliance on these services highlights the lack of other transportation options. The brands offering medical transport could include local ambulance services, private companies, and potentially, partnerships with healthcare providers.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Component**

The availability of healthcare providers within Hackleburg is another crucial factor. The presence of a local clinic or physician's office significantly enhances healthcare access, reducing the need for extensive travel. However, the limited number of healthcare providers in rural areas can lead to longer wait times for appointments and a potential shortage of specialists.

The quality of care available locally is also critical. Access to primary care physicians, cardiologists, and other specialists is essential for effective hypertension management. The absence of these specialists necessitates travel to larger cities, further exacerbating the transportation challenges.

**The "Hypertension Score" Framework**

The "Hypertension Score" for Hackleburg (35564) is a multifaceted assessment, incorporating the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average time required to reach primary care providers, specialists, and hospitals.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence or absence of public transit options and their accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing Services:** The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability and accessibility of NEMT services.
* **Healthcare Provider Availability:** The number and types of healthcare providers available locally.
* **Healthcare Quality:** The quality of care provided by local healthcare providers.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Income levels, insurance coverage, and other socioeconomic factors that impact healthcare access.

**Calculating the Score:**

Each factor is assigned a weighted score based on its impact on healthcare access. For example, longer drive times would negatively impact the score, while the presence of a local clinic would positively influence it. The final "Hypertension Score" would be a composite score reflecting the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare services for individuals managing hypertension in Hackleburg.

**Moving to Hackleburg: A Considered Decision**

For those considering moving to Hackleburg, this "Hypertension Score" write-up provides crucial information. The limited transportation options and potential travel distances to access healthcare services should be carefully considered. Individuals with hypertension must assess their ability to manage their condition effectively, given the transportation constraints.

The decision to move to Hackleburg should be made with a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape. Prospective residents should research local healthcare providers, explore medical transportation options, and assess their ability to manage their health needs within the constraints of the local transportation infrastructure. This proactive approach ensures a well-informed decision, promoting successful healthcare management and overall well-being for residents of Hackleburg.