35960, Centre, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35960, Centre, Alabama is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.97 percent of residents in 35960 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cherokee Medical Center with a distance of 1.99 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Centre, Alabama (ZIP Code 35960)

The heart of Cherokee County, Centre, Alabama, presents a unique landscape for residents managing hypertension. The ability to promptly and reliably access healthcare, a critical factor in managing this condition, hinges significantly on the available transportation options. This write-up explores the transportation infrastructure within and surrounding ZIP code 35960, assigning a "Hypertension Score" based on the ease of commute to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This score, while not a definitive medical assessment, aims to provide a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals seeking healthcare in this area.

The fundamental challenge for healthcare access in Centre is its rural character. While the town offers a close-knit community, it also presents transportation hurdles. The primary route for accessing healthcare is by personal vehicle. The main arteries are Highway 411, running north-south, and Highway 9, traversing east-west. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying critical medical appointments.

Drive times to the primary healthcare provider, Cherokee Medical Center, located in Centre, are generally manageable. Residents living within the town limits can expect a commute of under 10 minutes. However, for those residing in the more remote areas of the county, such as along the Coosa River or in the northern reaches, drive times can extend to 20-30 minutes, particularly during inclement weather. This extended travel time poses a significant concern for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis or requiring regular check-ups.

The "Hypertension Score" begins to consider these factors. A higher score indicates better access. For residents within the immediate vicinity of Cherokee Medical Center, the score starts at a solid 8 out of 10, acknowledging the short drive times. However, as we move further from the center, the score decreases. Residents in outlying areas may see their score drop to a 6 or 7, reflecting the increased travel time and potential for delays.

Public transportation options in Centre are limited. The Cherokee County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides a demand-response service, offering transportation within the county. However, the service operates on a limited schedule and may require advance booking. While the CCTA aims to provide ADA-accessible vehicles, the infrequent service and potential for delays present a significant barrier for individuals with hypertension, especially those experiencing acute symptoms.

The lack of robust public transit directly impacts the "Hypertension Score." While the CCTA offers a lifeline, its limitations necessitate a lower score for those reliant on public transportation. The score for individuals using the CCTA drops to a 4 or 5, reflecting the potential delays and the need for careful planning. The absence of a readily available, reliable public transit system is a major concern for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Centre. This absence significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score" for those without personal transportation. The lack of ride-sharing options leaves individuals reliant on friends, family, or the limited public transit system. The score for individuals without access to personal transportation and reliant on other means drops to a 3 or 4.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with hypertension. Cherokee Medical Center operates an ambulance service, ensuring prompt response to medical emergencies. NEMT services are available for scheduled appointments, but availability can be limited, and advance booking is often required.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net. However, the reliance on these services can increase the complexity and cost of healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability of these services, recognizing their importance, especially during emergencies. The score for those who may need medical transport services is a 5 or 6, acknowledging the availability but also the potential for delays and logistical challenges.

The decision to move to Centre, Alabama, requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. While the town offers a welcoming community and a lower cost of living, healthcare access is a critical aspect of life. Individuals with hypertension must carefully evaluate their transportation options and the potential challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

The "Hypertension Score" serves as a tool to assess the ease of access to healthcare. For those with personal vehicles and living near Cherokee Medical Center, the score is relatively high. However, for those relying on public transit, ride-sharing, or living in remote areas, the score is lower, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration.

The ideal scenario for individuals with hypertension in Centre would involve readily available ride-sharing services, a robust public transit system, and accessible medical transport options. Until these improvements are realized, individuals must carefully weigh their transportation needs and the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare and their overall quality of life.