35579, Oakman, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35579, Oakman, Alabama is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.20 percent of residents in 35579 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Walker Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 14.79 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35579 (Oakman, Alabama)**

Navigating the intricate web of transportation options in Oakman, Alabama (ZIP code 35579), to access vital healthcare services is a critical consideration for residents, especially those managing hypertension. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the commute landscape, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport alternatives, to help individuals assess their healthcare access and make informed decisions about their well-being.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments in Oakman remains the personal vehicle. Drive times to the nearest medical facilities are heavily influenced by the road network. Residents typically rely on **Highway 78**, a major east-west thoroughfare, and **Highway 69**, a north-south route, for accessing healthcare in surrounding towns. The condition of these roads, the presence of traffic, and the time of day significantly impact commute durations.

For example, a trip to the Walker Baptist Medical Center in Jasper, a major healthcare provider, could take approximately 30 to 45 minutes via Highway 78, depending on traffic. Smaller clinics and physician offices in towns like Carbon Hill or Dora might be reached in 15 to 25 minutes via Highway 69 or local roads. The drive to Birmingham, with its vast array of specialized medical services, could easily exceed an hour, making it a significant undertaking for regular appointments.

Public transportation options in Oakman are extremely limited. The area lacks a developed public transit system, with no established bus routes serving the town or connecting it to neighboring cities. This deficiency presents a major challenge for residents without access to a personal vehicle, particularly those with mobility limitations or financial constraints. The absence of public transit significantly reduces healthcare access for a segment of the population.

The lack of public transit also means there are no routes with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features. This severely limits the ability of individuals with disabilities to access healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Oakman area, though their availability may be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. Securing a ride might require advance planning and could be subject to surge pricing, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access. The reliability of these services is also a factor, as delays or cancellations could disrupt scheduled appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer an alternative. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) provide door-to-door service, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be costly, potentially representing a barrier to care for individuals with limited financial resources. The availability of NEMT providers and their service areas should be carefully researched.

For individuals considering moving to Oakman, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport must be factored into the decision-making process. Proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of transportation options should be key considerations.

The impact of transportation challenges on healthcare access is particularly relevant for individuals with hypertension. Regular medical check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle modifications are essential for controlling this chronic condition. Difficulties in accessing healthcare can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation is directly linked to the ability of individuals with hypertension to effectively manage their condition.

The journey to healthcare in Oakman is not always straightforward. The drive times, the absence of comprehensive public transit, and the potential costs associated with alternative transportation methods create obstacles for many residents. For those managing hypertension, these challenges can have a significant impact on their ability to receive timely and consistent care.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for commute to healthcare in ZIP code 35579 reflects a landscape where personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The limited public transit options, the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services present challenges for residents, particularly those with hypertension. Understanding these transportation dynamics is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring the well-being of individuals in Oakman.