36020, Coosada, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36020, Coosada, Alabama is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.22 percent of residents in 36020 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Prattville Baptist Hospital with a distance of 7.42 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Coosada, Alabama (ZIP Code 36020)

Coosada, Alabama, nestled along the banks of the Coosa River, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 36020, assessing its impact on residents' ability to reach vital medical appointments and services. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a picture of the "Hypertension Score" for this community. This score reflects the ease or difficulty residents face in accessing healthcare, a critical factor in managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Coosada is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The primary thoroughfare connecting Coosada to larger population centers and medical facilities is US Highway 231. Traveling south on US-231 provides direct access to Wetumpka, the county seat of Elmore County, and its local healthcare providers. Further south, this highway leads to Montgomery, the state capital, offering a broader range of specialized medical services and hospitals.

Driving times from Coosada to these destinations vary depending on traffic conditions. A typical drive to Wetumpka might take 10-15 minutes, while the journey to Montgomery could range from 30-45 minutes. These estimates are crucial for individuals with hypertension, as prompt access to medical care, especially during hypertensive crises, is paramount. Delays due to traffic or distance can have significant health consequences.

Beyond US-231, other roads provide access to healthcare. County Road 40, running east-west, offers an alternative route to Wetumpka. However, these secondary roads are often less well-maintained and may experience heavier traffic during peak hours. The availability of a reliable personal vehicle is therefore a significant determinant of healthcare access for residents of Coosada.

Public transportation options in Coosada and the surrounding areas are limited. The Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (CARPDC) offers a demand-response transit service, providing transportation to residents within Elmore County. However, this service requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. Details regarding route numbers, frequency, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features are not readily available, suggesting a potential challenge for those reliant on public transit.

The absence of a robust public transportation system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles. This creates a disparity in healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. This limitation necessitates a careful evaluation of alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Montgomery area and may extend their services to Coosada. However, the availability of these services is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-share services can also be a barrier, particularly for individuals with limited incomes.

Medical transport services offer a dedicated solution for patients requiring transportation to and from medical appointments. Several providers operate in the Montgomery area, including private ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients arrive safely and on time. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and coverage may vary depending on insurance plans.

The availability of medical transport services is a critical component of healthcare access for individuals with hypertension who cannot drive. These services provide a lifeline, ensuring that patients can attend their appointments and receive the necessary medical care. However, the cost and insurance coverage must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Coosada, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The "Hypertension Score" for this community would be negatively impacted by the limited public transit options and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or costly ride-share and medical transport services. Prospective residents with hypertension should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore available resources before relocating.

The distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the cost of accessing medical services are all critical factors influencing the "Hypertension Score" for Coosada. The absence of a robust public transit system and the potential reliance on private vehicles or expensive alternatives create challenges for residents managing hypertension.

A comprehensive assessment of the "Hypertension Score" for Coosada must also consider the availability of local healthcare providers. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within the community can significantly improve healthcare access. A well-equipped local healthcare infrastructure can reduce the need for travel to distant medical facilities, mitigating the challenges associated with transportation.

Furthermore, initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access in Coosada could include advocating for expanded public transit options, partnering with ride-share services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments, and promoting awareness of medical transport services. Community-based programs that provide transportation assistance to vulnerable populations can also play a crucial role in improving healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" for Coosada, therefore, is a multifaceted assessment that reflects the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare infrastructure, and community resources. While the reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge, the availability of ride-share, medical transport, and local healthcare providers, coupled with potential community initiatives, can mitigate the barriers to healthcare access. Residents of Coosada, particularly those managing hypertension, must carefully consider these factors when navigating their healthcare journey.