36006, Billingsley, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36006, Billingsley, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.81 percent of residents in 36006 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Chilton with a distance of 16.05 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Billingsley (ZIP Code 36006)

This analysis provides a comprehensive “Hypertension Score” for residents of ZIP Code 36006, Billingsley, Alabama, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. The score considers the multifaceted challenges of transportation, a crucial determinant of healthcare utilization. We delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, offering a realistic perspective for those living with or moving to Billingsley.

Understanding the limitations of transportation is paramount for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Regular medical appointments, medication refills, and the potential for emergency care necessitate reliable and efficient transportation. This score aims to illuminate the landscape of healthcare access within and around 36006, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The geography of Billingsley presents unique challenges. The town is primarily rural, with limited public transportation options. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in larger towns and cities, increasing travel times and potentially creating barriers to care. The Hypertension Score will reflect these realities, providing a clear picture of the transportation hurdles faced by individuals seeking hypertension management.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary arteries serving Billingsley are State Route 31 (also known as the Montgomery Highway) and County Road 29. These roads provide access to the surrounding areas, including major healthcare providers. Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

The closest major medical center is Prattville Baptist Hospital, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Highway 31. This drive is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion can occur, particularly near Prattville. The drive from Billingsley to Jackson Hospital in Montgomery, a larger facility with more specialized services, is significantly longer, taking approximately 45-60 minutes, primarily via Highway 31 and Interstate 65. This longer drive necessitates careful planning, especially for those with mobility limitations or requiring frequent appointments.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but potholes and uneven surfaces can occur, particularly on County Road 29. This factor should be considered, especially for individuals with back problems or those using less-than-ideal vehicles. The speed limits on these roads vary, with lower speeds in residential areas and higher speeds on highways. Adherence to speed limits and safe driving practices is crucial, especially when traveling to medical appointments.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 36006 are extremely limited. There is no direct public bus service within Billingsley. Residents rely primarily on personal vehicles or assistance from family and friends for transportation.

The closest public transportation options are available in Prattville and Montgomery, but these services are not directly accessible from Billingsley. The Autauga County Transit System serves Prattville, but its routes are limited and may not directly connect to Billingsley. The Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) provides more extensive service within Montgomery, but reaching a MATS route from Billingsley requires a private vehicle.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. While both Autauga County Transit and MATS strive to provide accessible services, the limited route coverage and the need for transfers can pose significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, as it reduces healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or support networks.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Prattville and Montgomery areas, but their availability in Billingsley is variable. Ride availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for individuals needing assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Several companies serve the area, including:

* **CareRide:** This service provides non-emergency medical transportation, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility.
* **First Choice Medical Transportation:** Another provider offering non-emergency transportation, focusing on patient comfort and safety.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Primarily an emergency medical service, AMR also provides non-emergency transport in certain situations.

These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak demand. The reliability and affordability of these services are critical components of the Hypertension Score.

**The Hypertension Score and its Implications:**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 36006 reflects the challenges and limitations of healthcare access. The absence of robust public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation all contribute to a lower score.

The score will be influenced by factors such as:

* **Drive times:** Longer drive times to healthcare facilities negatively impact the score.
* **Public transit availability:** The lack of public transit significantly lowers the score.
* **Ride-sharing reliability:** Variable ride-sharing availability lowers the score.
* **Medical transportation costs:** The cost of medical transportation lowers the score.
* **Road conditions:** Poor road conditions can negatively affect the score.

The Hypertension Score will serve as a tool for residents of Billingsley, providing a clear understanding of the transportation challenges they face in accessing healthcare. It will also be a valuable resource for individuals considering moving to Billingsley, allowing them to assess the impact of transportation limitations on their health management.

**Moving to Billingsley and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Billingsley, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Those with hypertension or other chronic conditions should carefully evaluate their ability to access healthcare. The need for a reliable vehicle or access to a support network for transportation is paramount.

Prospective residents should research the availability and cost of medical transportation services and factor these costs into their budget. They should also consider the potential impact of traffic congestion on drive times.

The Hypertension Score will help prospective residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can maintain access to necessary medical services. The score highlights the importance of proactive planning and the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare management in a rural environment.

**Conclusion:**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 36006 reflects the realities of healthcare access in Billingsley. While the area offers a peaceful and rural environment, the lack of robust transportation options presents significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The score emphasizes the importance of careful planning, reliance on personal vehicles or support networks, and consideration of the cost and availability of medical transportation services. This analysis provides a valuable resource for residents, prospective residents, and healthcare providers, fostering a better understanding of the transportation challenges and promoting proactive healthcare management within the community.