35972, Gallant, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35972, Gallant, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.70 percent of residents in 35972 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.02 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gallant, Alabama (ZIP Code 35972)

The pursuit of well-being, especially for individuals managing hypertension, demands seamless access to healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in Gallant, Alabama (ZIP code 35972), offering a “Hypertension Score” assessment. This score reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. For those considering moving to Gallant, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial for informed decision-making.

Gallant, a rural community nestled in Etowah County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The Hypertension Score aims to provide a clear picture of the transportation realities faced by residents managing this chronic condition. It considers the distances to medical facilities, the availability of alternative transportation methods, and the overall accessibility of healthcare resources.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Access**

For many Gallant residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The efficiency of this access hinges on drive times and the condition of the roadways. Several key routes dictate the flow of traffic.

The primary thoroughfare connecting Gallant to larger towns and cities is **Highway 77**. This road serves as the major artery for residents needing to reach medical facilities in Gadsden, approximately 15 miles south. Drive times to Gadsden can vary significantly depending on traffic, but generally range from 20 to 30 minutes. Delays can be caused by accidents or the frequent presence of farm equipment.

Another crucial route is **Highway 411**, which intersects with Highway 77. This highway offers an alternative route south, and can be used to access healthcare facilities in Rainbow City and Attalla. The drive to Rainbow City is about 10 miles, taking roughly 15 to 20 minutes. Attalla is a bit further, requiring a 25-35 minute drive.

**Local roads** and county roads, while providing access to residential areas, often present challenges. These roads may be poorly maintained, lacking sidewalks or bike lanes. These conditions can impact the safety and convenience of accessing healthcare for those without access to a personal vehicle.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Gallant and the surrounding areas are limited. This presents a significant barrier for those without access to a personal vehicle. The **Etowah County Transit Authority (ECTA)** provides some bus service within the county.

ECTA routes are infrequent, and the service area is limited. Routes typically do not reach directly into Gallant, meaning residents would need to arrange a ride to a pick-up point. Furthermore, the ECTA’s schedule may not align with the hours of operation of many healthcare facilities, creating additional challenges. While ECTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, the limited service area and infrequent routes can make it difficult for individuals with mobility limitations to access healthcare.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services in Gallant is variable. Ride-sharing services may be more readily available in Gadsden, but response times can be longer in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. Several companies operate in the Etowah County area, including **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Lifeline Ambulance Service**. These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, but they are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs or limitations. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often required.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access in Gallant is a multifaceted challenge. The availability of transportation is a critical factor, but it is not the only consideration. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of specialists, and the affordability of care all play a role.

The nearest hospitals and clinics are located in Gadsden, Rainbow City, and Attalla. These facilities offer a range of medical services, but the travel time and transportation costs can be significant barriers for some residents. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and endocrinologists, is also a concern. Many residents may need to travel to Birmingham or other larger cities to access specialized care.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for Gallant (ZIP code 35972) is a composite assessment, reflecting the combined impact of transportation challenges and healthcare access limitations. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Healthcare Facilities:** The average drive time to the nearest hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, coverage, and accessibility of public transit services.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity and Availability:** The proximity of healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized medical services.

Based on these factors, the Hypertension Score for Gallant is moderately challenging. While personal vehicles provide relatively easy access to healthcare facilities in Gadsden and surrounding areas, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for long wait times for medical transport services create significant barriers for some residents. The score also reflects the fact that specialized medical care may require travel to larger cities, increasing transportation costs and time commitments.

**Moving to Gallant: A Transportation-Focused Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Gallant, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. Those with hypertension should carefully assess their transportation needs and resources.

* **Personal Vehicle:** A personal vehicle is the most reliable mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Gallant.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities and the availability of specialists when choosing a residence.
* **Transportation Assistance:** Explore the availability of transportation assistance programs for individuals with medical needs.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services in the area.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Gallant, Alabama, requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. While personal vehicles offer the most convenient access, the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges for some residents. Individuals with hypertension should proactively assess their transportation needs and resources to ensure timely access to essential medical care. For those moving to Gallant, a thoughtful assessment of these transportation dynamics is crucial for making an informed decision and ensuring access to the healthcare needed for a healthy life.