35660, Sheffield, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35660, Sheffield, Alabama is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.46 percent of residents in 35660 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Helen Keller Hospital with a distance of 0.94 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sheffield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35660)

Considering a move to Sheffield, Alabama (ZIP code 35660), and concerned about managing hypertension? This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare resources for individuals with hypertension, specifically focusing on transportation options, as this significantly impacts healthcare access. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" to help you understand the ease of receiving necessary care.

The city of Sheffield, nestled in the heart of the Shoals region, presents a unique landscape for healthcare navigation. While a smaller community, the area offers a range of healthcare providers, and the availability of transportation options is a critical factor in determining the ease with which residents can access these services. Our assessment considers the practical realities of getting to appointments, filling prescriptions, and managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many Sheffield residents. The efficiency of this method hinges on the condition of roadways and the distance to healthcare facilities. Key highways and roads dictate the flow of traffic.

For those living in Sheffield, the primary artery to healthcare is **US Highway 43**, a major north-south thoroughfare. This road provides access to the Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield itself, a crucial resource for primary care and specialized services. Drive times to the hospital from various parts of the city are generally short, typically under 10 minutes, making it a convenient option.

Another vital road is **Alabama Highway 184**, which connects Sheffield to surrounding areas. This route provides access to medical offices and pharmacies located outside the immediate city limits. Depending on the location within Sheffield and the specific healthcare destination, drive times on Highway 184 can vary from 10 to 20 minutes.

**US Highway 72**, a major east-west route, provides access to larger medical facilities in neighboring cities like Florence. However, the distance to Florence, approximately 10 miles, can translate into a 20-30 minute drive, potentially longer during peak traffic hours. This longer commute could pose a challenge for individuals with hypertension, especially those requiring frequent check-ups or experiencing acute symptoms.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Shoals by Bus**

Public transportation options in the Shoals region are limited but present. The Shoals Transit Authority (STA) operates a bus system that provides service within the cities of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia. However, the routes and frequency of service are limited, and service hours are often restricted to weekdays.

For residents of Sheffield, the STA offers routes that connect to key locations, including the Helen Keller Hospital. However, the bus schedules may not align perfectly with appointment times, and the frequency of service might necessitate longer wait times.

**ADA Accessibility:** The STA prioritizes ADA accessibility, with buses equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial consideration for those with hypertension who may have mobility limitations or require assistance.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Shoals area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive.

However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can vary, and wait times may be longer in a smaller city like Sheffield. This is a factor to consider, especially for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide a more specialized option. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation.

**Medical Transport Brands:** Several medical transport companies operate in the Shoals region. These services are typically available for scheduled appointments and can be a valuable resource for those who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Hypertension Score" for Sheffield, Alabama, considers the interplay of transportation options and healthcare resources. While the presence of the Helen Keller Hospital within the city limits offers significant convenience, the limitations of public transit and the potential for longer drive times to specialized care in Florence require careful consideration.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but these may come with associated costs and potential wait times.

**Moving to Sheffield: A Personalized Approach**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to Sheffield, a personalized approach is crucial. Assess your specific healthcare needs, including the frequency of appointments, the need for specialized care, and your mobility limitations.

Factor in the availability and reliability of transportation options. Consider the proximity of your residence to healthcare facilities, the accessibility of public transit routes, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Options**

The "Hypertension Score" for Sheffield, Alabama, is moderate. While the presence of a local hospital and the availability of various transportation options offer a degree of healthcare access, the limitations of public transit and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care require careful planning.

By thoroughly evaluating your individual needs and considering the available transportation resources, you can make an informed decision about whether Sheffield is the right place to call home, ensuring that your hypertension management remains manageable and accessible.