35645, Killen, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35645, Killen, Alabama is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.17 percent of residents in 35645 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Alabama Medical Center with a distance of 8.68 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Killen, Alabama (ZIP Code 35645)

The journey to healthcare in Killen, Alabama (ZIP Code 35645), is a critical factor in the overall health and well-being of its residents, particularly those managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-share options, and medical transport services, to assess the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access. Understanding these elements is crucial for individuals considering moving to Killen, or for those already residing in the area, especially when managing a chronic condition like high blood pressure.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Killen is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The town's layout, characterized by sprawling residential areas and limited public transit, necessitates reliance on cars for most residents. The most direct route to healthcare facilities in nearby cities like Florence, Alabama, involves navigating the well-trafficked highways.

A typical drive from Killen to Florence, where the majority of specialized medical services are located, involves using **Highway 72** East. This route is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. Depending on the specific location within Killen and the destination in Florence, the drive can range from 15 to 30 minutes, sometimes longer during rush hour.

Alternatively, residents may choose to utilize **County Road 20** and connect to **Highway 72**. This route, while potentially offering a slightly less congested option, adds distance and complexity to the journey. The condition of these county roads can also impact travel times, especially after inclement weather.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Shoals Transit Authority (STA) provides public bus service within the Shoals area, but its routes and frequency may not adequately serve the needs of Killen residents seeking healthcare access. Information on routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features is crucial for those who rely on public transit.

The **STA Route 1** might be a viable option for certain destinations within the Florence area, but it's essential to confirm the specific stops and schedules to determine its practicality for healthcare appointments. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. The STA website or local information centers would provide the most current information on routes, schedules, and accessibility features.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Killen area, offering another transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This can pose a challenge for individuals with scheduled healthcare appointments, who require reliable and timely transportation.

The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare visits. While ride-sharing offers convenience, the financial burden can be substantial, especially for those with limited incomes or fixed budgets.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their transportation needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the Shoals area, including private ambulance companies.

Researching the specific medical transport providers in the area is essential. Assessing their service areas, pricing structures, and insurance coverage is vital for individuals who require this type of transportation. Understanding the availability of these services, especially for non-emergency medical appointments, is critical for healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" for Killen, in the context of healthcare access, is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, is subject to traffic congestion and the financial burden of vehicle ownership and operation. The limited public transit options and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services present challenges for those without access to a personal vehicle or who prefer alternative transportation methods.

The availability and affordability of medical transport services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. The overall score reflects the interplay of these factors, highlighting the need for careful consideration of transportation options when managing hypertension or any chronic health condition.

The challenges associated with healthcare access in Killen underscore the importance of planning and preparation. Individuals considering moving to Killen should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services in the area. Researching local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, is essential.

Understanding the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the costs of ride-sharing or medical transport services is critical. Exploring options for telehealth appointments or home healthcare services can also enhance healthcare access.

The healthcare system's ability to provide timely and accessible care directly impacts the management of hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are essential for controlling blood pressure. The ease of accessing healthcare services directly affects the effectiveness of these interventions.

For residents of Killen, proactive planning and awareness of available transportation options are essential. Individuals with hypertension should establish a clear plan for accessing healthcare, considering their personal circumstances and the resources available in the community.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Killen, Alabama, reflects a complex landscape of transportation and healthcare access. While the availability of personal vehicles offers a degree of flexibility, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services present challenges.

For individuals managing hypertension or considering moving to Killen, a thorough assessment of these factors is crucial. Careful planning, proactive research, and a clear understanding of the available resources can significantly improve healthcare access and contribute to better health outcomes. The integration of transportation and healthcare access is paramount for residents of Killen.