35739, Ardmore, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35739, Ardmore, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.41 percent of residents in 35739 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Athens Limestone Hospital with a distance of 14.10 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ardmore, AL (ZIP Code 35739)

Considering a move to Ardmore, Alabama (ZIP code 35739)? Beyond the charm of this community lies the crucial consideration of healthcare access, especially for those managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for consistent medical care. Efficient transportation is paramount for managing this chronic condition, impacting medication adherence, regular check-ups, and overall well-being. This score aims to illuminate the practical realities of accessing healthcare within and around Ardmore, aiding in informed decision-making.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the availability and efficiency of transportation. For individuals with hypertension, timely access to medical care is not merely convenient; it's a necessity. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, all weighed against the specific needs of hypertension management. This comprehensive evaluation offers a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility for potential residents.

Ardmore, Alabama, is a town straddling the Alabama-Tennessee border, placing it within a unique geographic context. The primary thoroughfare is **Highway 31 (North and South)**, which acts as the central artery connecting Ardmore to surrounding towns and cities. Traveling south on Highway 31 leads to Athens, Alabama, approximately a 20-minute drive. Further south lies Huntsville, a major metropolitan center, reachable in about 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading north on Highway 31, you’ll find yourself in Ardmore, Tennessee, with Nashville being a longer drive.

**Highway 72** provides another crucial route, running east-west. Heading east on Highway 72 offers access to Huntsville, while west leads to Athens. These highways are vital for accessing specialized medical care and larger hospitals. The quality of these roads, including the presence of traffic lights and congestion, significantly affects drive times and, consequently, healthcare accessibility.

For those reliant on private vehicles, the drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable. The drive to Huntsville Hospital is roughly 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The drive to Athens-Limestone Hospital is considerably shorter, about 20 minutes. This proximity to multiple hospitals is a significant advantage for residents.

Public transportation options in Ardmore are limited. There is no dedicated local bus system within the town itself. The availability of public transit to access healthcare facilities is a major concern for individuals with hypertension. This lack of public transportation can pose significant challenges, particularly for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

While Ardmore doesn't have a local bus system, individuals may be able to utilize public transportation options in nearby cities like Huntsville. The Huntsville Transit System (HATS) offers bus routes, but service to Ardmore is non-existent. This necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ardmore area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability and pricing can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor for those with limited incomes, potentially impacting their ability to access regular medical care.

Medical transport services are another option for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local private companies, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to doctor's appointments and other healthcare facilities. These services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, especially for frequent appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available transportation options is also a critical consideration. Individuals with hypertension may have other health conditions that require accessible transportation. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other accommodations is essential for ensuring equitable healthcare access. This is particularly important for those with mobility issues or other disabilities.

Considering the available transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for Ardmore, Alabama (35739) is moderate. While the proximity to hospitals in Athens and Huntsville is a positive factor, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services present challenges.

The drive times to hospitals are generally reasonable, but the lack of public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those with financial constraints or mobility limitations. This impacts healthcare access.

For individuals with hypertension, the need for consistent medical care makes transportation a critical factor in their quality of life. Moving to Ardmore requires careful consideration of transportation options to ensure easy access to medical appointments and medications.

The "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of planning for transportation needs when considering a move to Ardmore. While the area offers certain advantages, the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning to ensure consistent healthcare access.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides alternative options, but their cost and availability should be carefully evaluated. This assessment emphasizes the need for proactive planning to ensure access to vital healthcare services.

The final "Hypertension Score" reflects a balance between the positive aspects of drive times and the challenges posed by limited public transportation. The score serves as a practical guide for individuals managing hypertension and considering a move to Ardmore, Alabama (35739).

Ultimately, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for individuals with hypertension. This assessment provides a realistic overview of healthcare accessibility in Ardmore, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The journey to healthcare is a critical component of well-being, and this score helps to illuminate that path.