36024, Eclectic, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36024, Eclectic, Alabama is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.64 percent of residents in 36024 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Community Hospital Inc with a distance of 12.10 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Eclectic, Alabama (ZIP Code 36024)

The heart of this analysis lies in understanding the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access for residents of Eclectic, Alabama (ZIP Code 36024), particularly concerning individuals managing hypertension. This condition, often called high blood pressure, demands consistent medical attention and medication adherence. Therefore, reliable transportation becomes a critical lifeline, influencing the ability to attend appointments, refill prescriptions, and ultimately, maintain optimal health. This write-up, the "Hypertension Score," will explore the available transportation options, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately providing insights for residents and those considering moving to Eclectic.

The primary challenge for those in Eclectic is its relative isolation. Situated in Elmore County, the town is surrounded by rural landscapes, making transportation a significant hurdle. The availability of public transit is limited, and reliance on personal vehicles is the norm. This geographical reality directly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those without personal vehicles.

For those with a car, the primary artery for accessing healthcare is **Highway 63**, which runs north-south, connecting Eclectic to larger towns and cities. Driving north on Highway 63 offers access to Wetumpka, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Wetumpka boasts medical facilities like the Elmore Community Hospital, crucial for immediate care and specialist referrals. Further north, the journey to Montgomery, roughly a 45-60 minute drive, provides access to a wider array of hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical services. The drive, however, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours, potentially delaying critical appointments.

Traveling south on **Highway 63** leads to Tallassee, a shorter drive of around 15-20 minutes. Tallassee offers some local healthcare options, providing an alternative to the longer drives north. However, the scope of services might be limited compared to Wetumpka or Montgomery. The condition of the roads and the potential for inclement weather, such as heavy rain or occasional ice, can further complicate these commutes, particularly for those with hypertension who might experience increased stress during travel.

Another road, **Highway 14**, intersects with Highway 63 in Eclectic. This route can be used to access the eastern side of the county, but it does not significantly change the healthcare access landscape. The same challenges regarding distance and reliance on personal vehicles remain.

Public transportation options are scarce in Eclectic. Elmore County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This severely restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This is particularly problematic for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While formal public transit is absent, there are some potential, albeit limited, solutions. The possibility of utilizing ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft exists, but their availability in Eclectic is inconsistent and often subject to surge pricing, potentially making them unaffordable for routine medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services is questionable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Brands such as **CareRide** and **MedRide** operate in some parts of Alabama, including areas within driving distance of Eclectic. However, their coverage and availability in Eclectic specifically need verification. These services often require advance booking and may come with associated costs, which could be a barrier for some.

ADA-compliant transportation is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The absence of a public transit system with ADA-compliant features poses a significant challenge. Ride-sharing services may not always have vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Medical transportation services, on the other hand, are generally equipped to handle these needs, but their availability in Eclectic is crucial.

The "Hypertension Score" for Eclectic, therefore, reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare due to transportation limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of reliable public transit, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services create significant hurdles for individuals managing hypertension. The geographical isolation of Eclectic, coupled with the limited transportation options, directly impacts the ability to adhere to prescribed medical regimens and receive timely medical care.

For those considering moving to Eclectic, the transportation landscape should be a paramount consideration. Individuals with hypertension, or those with family members managing the condition, should carefully evaluate their ability to reliably access medical care. The drive times to Wetumpka and Montgomery, the potential for unpredictable ride-sharing availability, and the need to verify the presence and accessibility of medical transportation services are all critical factors.

In conclusion, while Eclectic offers a tranquil rural setting, the "Hypertension Score" highlights the potential difficulties in ensuring consistent healthcare access. The absence of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for individuals managing hypertension. Residents must proactively plan for transportation needs, exploring all available options, including ride-sharing, medical transportation services, and the support of family and friends. For those considering a move, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services is essential to ensure a healthy and fulfilling life in Eclectic. The future of healthcare access in Eclectic hinges on finding solutions to bridge the transportation gap, ensuring that all residents can receive the timely and consistent care they need.