35654, Russellville, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35654, Russellville, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.91 percent of residents in 35654 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russellville Hospital with a distance of 3.66 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Russellville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35654)

Considering a move to Russellville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35654)? This assessment provides a detailed "Hypertension Score" evaluating the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, particularly those crucial for managing hypertension. This score considers the multifaceted landscape of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, all crucial for maintaining consistent medical care. Understanding these factors is paramount for individuals prioritizing healthcare access, especially those managing chronic conditions.

The "Hypertension Score" for Russellville, Alabama, is a complex metric. It's not a single number, but a composite evaluation reflecting the interplay of several key components: drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the presence and accessibility of ride-sharing services, and the availability of specialized medical transportation. Each element is weighted according to its impact on a patient's ability to attend appointments, obtain medications, and receive timely medical attention.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Wellness**

For many Russellville residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this method significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." The main arteries for healthcare access include U.S. Highway 43 and Alabama Highway 24. Driving to the Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, approximately 20 miles away, typically takes around 30-40 minutes via U.S. Highway 43. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can extend this commute.

The drive to Northwest Medical Center in Winfield, roughly 25 miles, also involves U.S. Highway 43 and can take around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. While the drive to facilities in Decatur, such as Decatur Morgan Hospital, is farther, around 60 miles, this commute is often made by way of U.S. Highway 72. This drive can take upwards of an hour and a half, making it less accessible for frequent appointments.

Smaller clinics and physician offices within Russellville, such as those located near the town square, offer more immediate healthcare access. However, the availability of specialized care, like cardiology or nephrology, may necessitate longer drives to larger regional hospitals. These drive times are critical for individuals with hypertension, as consistent access to medical care is paramount for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Russellville are limited, which significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." The city primarily relies on a demand-response system, meaning transportation is arranged in advance, often with limited service hours. This can pose a challenge for those requiring regular appointments or experiencing sudden health issues. The absence of fixed-route bus services reduces the accessibility of healthcare facilities for those without personal vehicles.

The availability of ADA-compliant transportation is a crucial factor. While demand-response systems typically offer accessible vehicles, the scheduling process and potential wait times can create barriers to healthcare access. The reliability and frequency of public transit are critical determinants of the "Hypertension Score." Infrequent or unreliable service can lead to missed appointments and delayed medical care, negatively impacting blood pressure management.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Russellville, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. This variability impacts the "Hypertension Score," as it can affect the reliability of transportation for medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services can be essential for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transportation to specialized care facilities. The cost and availability of these services are crucial factors in determining the "Hypertension Score."

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" is directly influenced by the ease of accessing healthcare services. The availability of transportation, the drive times to healthcare facilities, and the reliability of public transit all play a role. A high "Hypertension Score" reflects a robust healthcare access system, with multiple transportation options and readily available medical care. A lower score indicates challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes for individuals with hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Russellville, understanding the "Hypertension Score" is crucial. It allows them to assess the potential challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. This assessment is particularly relevant for those with hypertension, as it highlights the importance of reliable transportation for managing their condition.

**Moving to Russellville: A Transportation Perspective**

Relocating to Russellville requires careful consideration of transportation infrastructure. For those with hypertension, proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of reliable transportation are paramount. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for evaluating these factors, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions.

The availability of personal vehicles is crucial, but the limited public transportation options and the variability of ride-sharing services must be considered. Individuals should assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. This includes researching the locations of healthcare providers, understanding drive times, and exploring alternative transportation options.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The "Hypertension Score" for Russellville, Alabama, reveals a complex picture. While personal vehicles offer the most direct route to healthcare, the limited public transportation and the variability of ride-sharing services create challenges. For individuals with hypertension, proactive planning is essential. This includes understanding drive times, identifying alternative transportation options, and exploring medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of healthcare access. It highlights the need for a comprehensive transportation system that supports the healthcare needs of all residents, especially those managing chronic conditions. By understanding the intricacies of transportation and healthcare access, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and well-being when considering a move to Russellville.