36029, Fitzpatrick, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36029, Fitzpatrick, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.76 percent of residents in 36029 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center East with a distance of 15.83 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 36029

Understanding the challenges of **healthcare access** is crucial, especially when considering the impact of hypertension, a condition significantly affected by timely and consistent medical care. This write-up delves into the complexities of accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 36029, focusing on **transportation** options and their implications for individuals managing hypertension. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of the landscape for those seeking to move to Fitzpatrick, Alabama, and maintain their health.

ZIP Code 36029, encompassing the charming town of Fitzpatrick, presents a unique set of circumstances. The rural nature of the area influences the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options, making it essential to assess the accessibility of healthcare providers for residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" by evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services.

**Drive Time and Roadways:**

The primary mode of **transportation** in this area is the personal vehicle. Several key roadways dictate access to healthcare facilities. The drive to the nearest major healthcare hub, the East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, will be a crucial factor in our "Hypertension Score".

From Fitzpatrick, the most direct route typically involves traveling north on Alabama State Route 147. This road, characterized by its two-lane design, can present challenges during peak hours, potentially extending drive times. The distance is approximately 20 miles, translating to a drive time of roughly 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Another viable route involves taking County Road 29 south to County Road 29. This route is slightly longer in distance but can offer an alternative to potential congestion on Route 147.

The condition of the roads, including the presence of potholes or other maintenance issues, can also influence drive times and the overall comfort of the journey, especially for individuals with mobility limitations. The "Hypertension Score" will consider these factors, acknowledging the potential for increased stress and inconvenience.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transit options in ZIP Code 36029 are severely limited. There is no established bus system or fixed-route public **transportation** within the immediate vicinity of Fitzpatrick. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," particularly for those who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with private **transportation**.

The absence of public transit underscores the importance of alternative **transportation** solutions, such as ride-sharing services, for individuals seeking **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the broader Opelika-Auburn area, including potential service in Fitzpatrick. However, the availability of these services can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The "Hypertension Score" will account for this potential variability, recognizing the reliance on ride-sharing can be unreliable.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as those provided by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical **transportation** providers, can provide door-to-door service, assisting with mobility challenges and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey to medical appointments. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents.

The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the availability, affordability, and reliability of medical **transportation** services, recognizing their critical role in ensuring timely access to care for individuals with hypertension.

**Accessibility and ADA Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public **transportation** and healthcare facilities. However, the lack of public transit in ZIP Code 36029 limits the direct impact of ADA regulations. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities in the area, including features such as ramps, elevators, and accessible parking, to ensure that individuals with mobility limitations can access the care they need.

**The "Hypertension Score" and its Implications:**

The "Hypertension Score" will be a composite measure, factoring in the following elements:

* **Drive Time:** The average time required to travel to the nearest healthcare facilities, considering traffic and road conditions.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence or absence of public **transportation** options and their accessibility features.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical **transportation** services.
* **Accessibility of Healthcare Facilities:** The presence of ADA-compliant features at healthcare facilities.

This score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 36029, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. A lower score would indicate greater challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.

**Moving to Fitzpatrick and Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Fitzpatrick, understanding the **transportation** landscape is crucial, especially for those with hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" can serve as a valuable tool in assessing the suitability of the area for their healthcare needs.

Potential residents should consider the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates car ownership or access to a reliable form of **transportation**.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** The distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for longer drive times should be factored into the decision.
* **Alternative Transportation Planning:** Individuals without access to a personal vehicle should explore ride-sharing options, medical **transportation** services, or consider living closer to healthcare facilities.
* **Cost of Care:** The cost of **transportation** can significantly impact the overall cost of healthcare.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can maintain their health while residing in Fitzpatrick. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a starting point for a more in-depth investigation into **healthcare access** and the challenges associated with it. It highlights the need for careful planning and consideration, particularly for those managing chronic conditions, when choosing to move to a rural area like Fitzpatrick.