The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
67.05 percent of residents in 35586 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Medical Center with a distance of 19.11 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama
Hypertension Score | 10 |
---|---|
People Score | 22 |
Provider Score | 14 |
Hospital Score | 53 |
Travel Score | 32 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 35586 | Sulligent | Alabama |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.65 | 1.65 | 1.85 |
1 Car | 10.41 | 10.41 | 18.18 |
2 Cars | 27.54 | 27.54 | 39.34 |
3 or More Cars | 60.41 | 60.41 | 40.63 |
Vehicular Access in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sulligent, Alabama (ZIP Code 35586)
The heart of this analysis beats within the rural embrace of Sulligent, Alabama (ZIP Code 35586), a community where the availability and accessibility of healthcare, particularly for managing hypertension, is a critical determinant of well-being. This write-up constructs a "Hypertension Score," a composite measure reflecting the ease with which residents can access medical services crucial for controlling high blood pressure. The score considers transportation options, drive times, and public transit limitations, offering a practical guide for residents and those considering moving to Sulligent.
Sulligent, a town of just over 2,000 residents, is nestled in Lamar County, a locale where the landscape is as much a factor as the infrastructure. The nearest significant medical facilities are located outside of the immediate ZIP code, necessitating travel. This reality underscores the importance of understanding the transportation landscape. The Hypertension Score will assess how effectively residents can overcome these geographical barriers to receive the necessary medical care.
The primary arteries of transportation in and around Sulligent are Highway 278 and Highway 17. Highway 278, a two-lane road, provides the most direct route east towards medical facilities in Winfield, Alabama, approximately 25 miles away. Highway 17, also a two-lane thoroughfare, heads south towards Vernon, the county seat, offering access to some healthcare options, but often requiring a longer journey. These roads are the lifelines connecting Sulligent to the broader healthcare system, and their condition, traffic flow, and potential for delays directly impact the Hypertension Score.
Drive times are a cornerstone of the score. A resident driving to Winfield, assuming moderate traffic and ideal road conditions, can expect a drive time of roughly 35-45 minutes. Vernon, being closer, offers a shorter drive, typically taking 25-35 minutes. However, these times can fluctuate considerably due to weather, road construction, or unforeseen incidents. The score will factor in these potential delays, recognizing that unpredictable travel times can increase stress and hinder timely access to medication and appointments, essential elements in hypertension management.
Public transportation options in Sulligent are extremely limited. Lamar County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes or fixed-route services. This absence creates a significant challenge for residents who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The lack of public transit contributes negatively to the Hypertension Score, as it severely restricts healthcare access for a segment of the population.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also virtually non-existent in Sulligent and the surrounding areas. The low population density and limited demand make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate. This leaves residents with few options beyond personal vehicles or relying on friends and family for transportation. The lack of ride-sharing services further diminishes the Hypertension Score.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are a potential resource. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local or regional providers might offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. However, availability and cost can be significant barriers. The Hypertension Score will consider the accessibility and affordability of these services, recognizing their importance for individuals who cannot drive or lack other transportation options.
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of any available transportation is a crucial consideration. For residents with mobility limitations, the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles is paramount. Even if a medical transportation service exists, its value is diminished if it cannot accommodate individuals with disabilities. The Hypertension Score will factor in the availability of ADA-compliant transportation options.
The Hypertension Score will also assess the availability of pharmacies in and around Sulligent. Access to medication is a critical component of hypertension management. The distance to the nearest pharmacy, the hours of operation, and the availability of prescription refills all influence the score. A pharmacy located within a reasonable distance and offering convenient services will positively impact the score.
Another vital component of the Hypertension Score is the availability of healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management. This includes primary care physicians, cardiologists, and other specialists. The score will consider the number of providers in the area, their appointment availability, and the ease with which patients can access their services. A shortage of providers or long wait times will negatively affect the score.
The overall score will be a composite of these factors, assigning weights to each based on their relative importance. Drive times and the availability of transportation options will carry the most weight, recognizing their direct impact on healthcare access. The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better healthcare access and a lower score indicating greater challenges.
For individuals considering moving to Sulligent, the Hypertension Score can be a valuable tool. It provides a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. It underscores the importance of planning for transportation needs and understanding the limitations of healthcare access in a rural setting.
The score is not static. It can be updated as new transportation options emerge, as healthcare services expand, or as the local infrastructure improves. The goal is to create a dynamic and informative tool that reflects the evolving healthcare environment in Sulligent.
In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for Sulligent (ZIP Code 35586) is a multi-faceted assessment of healthcare access, heavily influenced by transportation realities. The score acknowledges the limitations imposed by rural geography and the lack of robust public transit. It highlights the importance of personal vehicles, the potential role of medical transportation services, and the need for careful planning for those managing hypertension. This score is a call to action, a reminder of the importance of healthcare access in a community where transportation is a key factor.
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