35580, Parrish, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35580, Parrish, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.13 percent of residents in 35580 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 31.66 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Parrish, Alabama (ZIP Code 35580)

Parrish, Alabama, a community nestled in Walker County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking accessible healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. This write-up assesses the transportation infrastructure and healthcare options available, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" designed to gauge the ease with which individuals can access vital medical services. The goal is to provide a clear picture for anyone considering moving to Parrish or currently residing there, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Parrish is, of course, the ability to reach medical facilities. In ZIP Code 35580, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The town’s layout is heavily reliant on roadways, with Highway 78 being the major artery, providing access to larger cities like Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. Highway 13 also offers north-south connectivity. Local roads, such as Parrish-Jasper Road and County Road 6, are essential for navigating within the town and reaching nearby towns.

Drive times are a critical factor in evaluating healthcare access. The nearest hospitals are located in Jasper, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Highway 78, and in Birmingham, a considerably longer journey of about an hour and a half, depending on traffic. Specialist appointments, diagnostic imaging, and emergency services often necessitate these drives. The time commitment can be a significant burden for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent check-ups and immediate medical attention.

Public transportation options in Parrish are limited. The availability of buses or other forms of public transit is virtually nonexistent within the town itself. This lack of public transportation creates a significant barrier for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to physical limitations. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with hypertension, as consistent access to medical appointments is paramount.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Parrish, though their presence may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is potentially unreliable and can be costly. Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are also available, offering a more specialized and potentially more reliable option. However, these services often come with a higher price tag.

Healthcare access extends beyond simply getting to a doctor's office. The availability of pharmacies, specialists, and ancillary services is also crucial. Parrish has local pharmacies that provide essential medications, including those used to manage hypertension. However, access to specialized medical care, such as cardiology or nephrology, often requires travel to Jasper or Birmingham. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation logistics.

The availability of healthcare professionals within Parrish itself is another factor. The presence of primary care physicians, who can monitor blood pressure and provide initial treatment, is essential. The number of available physicians and their appointment availability directly impact healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension often require regular check-ups and medication adjustments, making the proximity and availability of a primary care physician a key determinant of healthcare quality.

The "Hypertension Score" for Parrish, Alabama, ZIP Code 35580, takes into account these factors. The score is based on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing very limited access and 5 representing excellent access.

**Factors Considered:**

* **Drive Times:** The time required to reach the nearest hospitals and specialist appointments.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability and reliability of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Healthcare Provider Availability:** The number and accessibility of primary care physicians and specialists within and near Parrish.
* **Pharmacy Access:** The ease of obtaining necessary medications.

**Scoring Breakdown:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. Access to a hospital in Jasper is relatively quick, but specialist appointments and emergency care may require longer drives.
* **Public Transportation:** Very Limited. The lack of public transit severely restricts access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Limited. Ride-sharing availability may be inconsistent, and medical transportation services can be costly.
* **Healthcare Provider Availability:** Moderate. While primary care physicians are available, access to specialists requires travel.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Good. Local pharmacies provide essential medications.

**Hypertension Score for Parrish, Alabama (ZIP Code 35580): 2.5 out of 5**

This score indicates that while Parrish offers some healthcare access, significant challenges exist, particularly regarding transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit create barriers for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. Individuals with hypertension must carefully consider these factors when assessing the suitability of Parrish as a place to live.

For someone considering moving to Parrish with hypertension, proactive planning is essential. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, understanding the transportation options available, and budgeting for potential transportation costs. Investigating the availability of home healthcare services and exploring options for telehealth appointments can also help mitigate the challenges of limited healthcare access.

The town's proximity to Jasper, with its hospital and additional medical resources, is a positive factor. However, the long drive to Birmingham for specialized care remains a significant concern. The best strategy is to be prepared and to be aware of the limitations.

In conclusion, while Parrish, Alabama, offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, individuals with hypertension must carefully evaluate the transportation and healthcare access challenges. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness to ensure effective management of this chronic condition. Understanding the landscape of healthcare access is crucial for making informed decisions about where to live and how to maintain optimal health.