35988, Sylvania, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 35988, Sylvania, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.63 percent of residents in 35988 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dekalb Regional Medical Center with a distance of 9.02 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sylvania, Alabama (ZIP Code 35988)

Sylvania, Alabama, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. This write-up analyzes the "Hypertension Score" – a metric reflecting the ease with which individuals with hypertension, or those at risk, can access necessary medical care within ZIP Code 35988. This score considers transportation infrastructure, healthcare facility proximity, and alternative transportation options, ultimately providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those *moving to Sylvania*. Understanding these factors is crucial for managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent monitoring and treatment.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the reality of *transportation* in this rural setting. The primary mode of travel is the personal vehicle. Highway 75 serves as the major artery, connecting Sylvania to larger towns like Fort Payne and Rainsville, where more specialized medical services are available. Driving times are paramount, particularly for individuals experiencing hypertensive crises or requiring regular check-ups.

Consider a hypothetical resident living in the northern part of Sylvania. Reaching the closest primary care physician might involve a 15-20 minute drive along County Road 227 and then onto Highway 75. Traffic flow is generally manageable, but adverse weather conditions, common in the region, can significantly impact drive times. The same resident needing to see a cardiologist in Fort Payne could face a 30-45 minute journey, depending on traffic and the precise location of the clinic.

Conversely, a resident in the southern reaches of Sylvania might find themselves closer to healthcare facilities in Rainsville. This route typically involves a shorter drive, perhaps 10-15 minutes, primarily along County Road 11. This variance highlights the importance of considering specific residential locations when assessing healthcare *access*.

Public *transportation* options are limited in Sylvania. There is no formal public bus system operating within the ZIP code. This severely restricts healthcare *access* for those without personal vehicles, individuals with mobility limitations, or those unable to drive. The lack of public *transportation* disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, potentially hindering timely medical intervention for hypertension management.

While traditional public *transportation* is absent, alternative options exist, albeit with limitations. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, but their frequency and reliability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The availability of these services is also heavily dependent on driver availability, which can fluctuate significantly.

Medical *transportation* services, catering specifically to patients with medical needs, represent another avenue. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) for appointments. These services, while valuable, often require pre-booking and can be costly, posing a financial barrier for some individuals.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available *transportation* options is another critical consideration. While medical *transportation* services are generally equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the lack of accessible public *transportation* and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges for those with mobility impairments. This highlights the need for readily available and accessible *transportation* solutions to ensure equitable healthcare *access*.

The *healthcare access* landscape in Sylvania is shaped by the availability of healthcare facilities. The presence of a primary care physician's office within the ZIP code is a significant advantage. This allows for routine check-ups, medication management, and early intervention for hypertension. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, is more limited, necessitating travel to larger towns.

The distance to specialist care is a key factor in the Hypertension Score. The longer the travel time, the greater the potential for delays in diagnosis and treatment. This is particularly critical for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, who may require prompt medical attention. The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) within the community is another vital component. Quick access to EMS can be life-saving in the event of a hypertensive emergency.

The overall Hypertension Score for Sylvania (35988) reflects the interplay of these factors. The score is influenced by the availability of a primary care physician, the drive times to specialist care, the limitations of public *transportation*, the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with disabilities. The score is also impacted by the presence of emergency medical services and the overall healthcare infrastructure.

For individuals *moving to Sylvania*, understanding these nuances is crucial. Researching the location of healthcare facilities, assessing *transportation* options, and considering the potential impact of travel times on healthcare *access* are all essential steps. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the feasibility of managing hypertension in this specific location.

Furthermore, the score underscores the need for community initiatives aimed at improving healthcare *access*. This could include advocating for expanded medical *transportation* services, exploring the feasibility of a local shuttle service, or promoting telehealth options to reduce the need for travel.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for Sylvania (35988) highlights the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare *access* in a rural setting. While the presence of a primary care physician is a positive factor, the limitations of *transportation* options and the distance to specialized care pose significant hurdles. By understanding these factors, residents can proactively manage their health and advocate for improvements in healthcare *access*, creating a healthier community for all. The journey to optimal hypertension management in Sylvania necessitates a careful navigation of the local *transportation* landscape, ensuring that residents can receive the timely and effective care they deserve.