35574, Kennedy, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35574, Kennedy, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.91 percent of residents in 35574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 12.32 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 35574

The pursuit of optimal health often hinges on a simple, yet critical factor: **transportation**. In the heart of Alabama, within the confines of ZIP Code 35574, the ability to access healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is a complex interplay of geography, infrastructure, and available resources. This write-up, designed to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the specifics of **transportation** options, considering the unique challenges faced by residents seeking care.

The focal point of our analysis is **healthcare access** for those managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent monitoring and treatment. The ability to reach medical facilities, pharmacies, and specialists is paramount. We will explore the practicalities of navigating the area, from driving times to public transit options, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. This will provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents.

ZIP Code 35574, encompassing the town of Kennedy, is primarily served by State Route 171 and County Road 39. These roads are the lifeblood of local **transportation**, connecting residents to essential services. However, relying solely on these routes can present difficulties, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The distances to larger medical centers, like those in nearby towns such as Vernon or Sulligent, can be significant, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in more rural areas.

Driving times are a crucial element of the **Hypertension Score**. A drive to the closest primary care physician in Kennedy via State Route 171 might take a mere 5-10 minutes. However, the drive to a specialist, such as a cardiologist or endocrinologist, located in Vernon, could easily extend to 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The journey to larger hospitals in the area, such as North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, Mississippi, which is a popular choice for specialist care, might take 45 minutes to an hour, adding to the stress and inconvenience.

Public **transportation** options in ZIP Code 35574 are limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town or county. This absence significantly impacts individuals who do not own a car, those with disabilities, or those who are unable to drive. The lack of readily available public transit poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for those with chronic conditions like hypertension.

The absence of public transit highlights the importance of alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and affordability may vary. Residents may face challenges in securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of these services can also be a burden, particularly for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with their medical appointments. Several companies provide non-emergency medical **transportation** in the region, including wheelchair-accessible vans and stretcher services. These services can be a lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those who are unable to drive. However, the availability of these services, the associated costs, and the need for advance booking must be carefully considered.

The **Hypertension Score** must also account for the availability of pharmacies. Access to medications is critical for managing hypertension. While Kennedy has a local pharmacy, residents may need to travel to pharmacies in neighboring towns for specific medications or to take advantage of lower prices. This adds another layer of complexity to the **transportation** equation.

The **Hypertension Score** for ZIP Code 35574 is further influenced by the availability of community resources. Local health initiatives, support groups, and educational programs can play a vital role in empowering individuals to manage their hypertension effectively. The presence of these resources, and their accessibility via various **transportation** modes, can significantly improve the overall health outcomes.

The decision to consider **moving to Kennedy** or to remain in the area for those already living there is often influenced by factors like **healthcare access**. The **Hypertension Score** provides a framework for evaluating the ease with which residents can access the medical care they need. It considers the availability of **transportation** options, the proximity of medical facilities, and the presence of support services.

The **Hypertension Score** is not merely a numerical assessment; it is a reflection of the lived experience of individuals managing their health within the constraints of their environment. It highlights the importance of addressing the **transportation** challenges faced by residents of ZIP Code 35574.

The score underscores the need for community initiatives to improve **healthcare access**. This could include advocating for public **transportation** solutions, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rides for medical appointments, and promoting the availability of medical **transportation** services.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a more equitable and accessible healthcare system for all residents, regardless of their **transportation** limitations. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies. The success of these efforts will be measured by the improved health outcomes of individuals managing hypertension in ZIP Code 35574.

The **Hypertension Score** is a dynamic measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in **transportation** infrastructure, the availability of healthcare services, and the implementation of community-based initiatives. This ongoing assessment will ensure that residents have the information they need to navigate the complexities of **healthcare access** and to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.