35674, Tuscumbia, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35674, Tuscumbia, Alabama is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.97 percent of residents in 35674 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Helen Keller Hospital with a distance of 3.07 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tuscumbia, Alabama (ZIP Code 35674)

Considering a move to the charming city of Tuscumbia, Alabama (ZIP code 35674)? Beyond the allure of historic homes and Southern hospitality, a crucial factor in your decision should be **healthcare access**, especially if you're managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the **transportation** landscape and its impact on your ability to reach essential medical appointments. This is vital for those seeking better health outcomes.

Tuscumbia, nestled in the heart of the Shoals region, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger urban centers. However, the **transportation** infrastructure, a key element in determining your Hypertension Score, presents both opportunities and challenges. The ability to consistently and reliably access healthcare is paramount for individuals with hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and medication adherence.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The primary mode of **transportation** for residents of Tuscumbia is the personal vehicle. The city is well-connected by a network of highways and local roads, but drive times to healthcare facilities can vary significantly depending on your location within the ZIP code and the specific medical need.

The most direct route to major healthcare providers often involves navigating **U.S. Highway 72**, a major east-west artery. This highway connects Tuscumbia to neighboring cities like Muscle Shoals and Florence, where you'll find a concentration of hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. Expect a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes to reach facilities in Muscle Shoals, and roughly 20-30 minutes to reach those in Florence.

Local roads, such as **North Main Street** and **East 6th Street**, provide access to smaller clinics and pharmacies within Tuscumbia itself. These options offer convenience for routine check-ups and medication refills, potentially reducing the overall burden of **transportation** for those with hypertension. However, the availability of specialized care within Tuscumbia is limited, necessitating travel to larger medical centers.

Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times. While the Shoals region generally experiences moderate traffic, delays can occur, especially on **U.S. Highway 72** and near major intersections. Plan your appointments accordingly, factoring in potential delays to ensure you arrive on time and avoid unnecessary stress, which can negatively impact blood pressure.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, ADA Considerations**

Public **transportation** options in Tuscumbia and the surrounding area are limited, posing a challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The Shoals Transit Authority (STA) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules may not adequately serve the needs of individuals requiring frequent medical appointments.

The STA operates a fixed-route bus service, with routes that primarily connect major population centers and key destinations. However, the frequency of service and the geographic coverage may not be sufficient to provide convenient access to all healthcare facilities. It is crucial to research the specific STA routes and schedules to determine if they align with your healthcare needs.

For individuals with disabilities, the STA offers ADA-compliant buses, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility challenges. These buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and other assistive devices. However, the availability of ADA-accessible buses and the efficiency of the service can vary.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Shoals region, offering an alternative **transportation** option for those who prefer not to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand in the area.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution for individuals with hypertension. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the Shoals region, including local companies. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. Researching and comparing different providers, considering factors such as cost, availability, and the type of vehicle offered, is crucial.

**Healthcare Access and Hypertension Score: A Synthesis**

The "Hypertension Score" for **healthcare access** in Tuscumbia (ZIP code 35674) is moderate, influenced by a combination of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation** provides a degree of flexibility and control, but the limited public transit options and the potential for traffic delays can pose challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** options offers alternative solutions, but these services may come with associated costs and require advance planning. The distance to major healthcare facilities in Muscle Shoals and Florence necessitates travel, adding to the overall time and effort required to access care.

**Moving to Tuscumbia** requires careful consideration of your individual healthcare needs and your ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape. If you have hypertension, assess your ability to drive, utilize ride-sharing services, or rely on medical **transportation** to ensure consistent access to medical appointments and medication refills.

The proximity to healthcare facilities in neighboring cities is a positive aspect, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options require proactive planning. Research the availability of local clinics, pharmacies, and specialist offices within Tuscumbia to minimize the need for extensive travel.

Ultimately, your "Hypertension Score" will depend on your individual circumstances and your ability to adapt to the **transportation** options available. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Tuscumbia is the right place for you, ensuring that your healthcare needs are met and your well-being is prioritized. The decision is a personal one, but the information provided here should help you make a more informed choice.