36205, Anniston, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36205, Anniston, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.95 percent of residents in 36205 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeast Alabama Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.16 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Anniston, Alabama (ZIP Code 36205)

Moving to Anniston, Alabama (ZIP code 36205), presents a tapestry of opportunities and challenges, especially when considering healthcare access. This write-up will delve into the transportation landscape impacting individuals managing hypertension, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on commute times, public transit options, and available ride-share and medical transport services. The goal is to illuminate the realities of accessing vital healthcare services within this community, empowering informed decisions for residents and prospective newcomers.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent medical attention. Regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments are crucial for mitigating its risks. The ease with which one can reach healthcare providers directly affects the quality of care and, ultimately, overall well-being. Our analysis will focus on the practicalities of transportation, recognizing that barriers to access can significantly impact health outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a subjective assessment, considering the availability and efficiency of various transportation methods. Factors like drive times, public transit frequency, and the presence of specialized medical transport will influence the score. The higher the score, the better the access to healthcare, indicating fewer obstacles for individuals managing hypertension.

**Driving the Landscape: Roads and Routes**

Anniston, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a driving environment influenced by its topography. The primary arteries for navigating the city and reaching healthcare facilities are Interstate 20 (I-20) and US Highway 431. I-20 serves as the major east-west corridor, connecting Anniston to Birmingham and Atlanta. US 431 runs north-south, providing access to Gadsden and points south.

For residents in ZIP code 36205, the primary healthcare hub is Northeast Alabama Regional Medical Center (RMC), located at 400 East 10th Street. Driving to RMC from various points within 36205 will vary depending on traffic and specific location. Residents in the northern sections of the zip code, closer to I-20, may experience shorter commute times. Those in the southern areas, nearer to US 431, might face slightly longer drives, especially during peak hours.

Smaller roads like McClellan Boulevard, Quintard Avenue, and Golden Springs Road provide access to local clinics and physician offices. These roads are often subject to congestion, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is also a factor to consider, as limited spaces can add to the stress of a healthcare visit.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

Anniston’s public transportation system, operated by the Calhoun County Transit Authority (CCTA), offers a limited network. The system primarily focuses on fixed routes and operates on weekdays, with reduced service on Saturdays and no service on Sundays. This limited schedule presents a significant challenge for individuals needing access to healthcare, especially those with appointments outside of typical operating hours.

The CCTA does offer some routes that serve healthcare facilities. Route 1, for example, provides service along McClellan Boulevard, passing near RMC. Route 2 travels along Quintard Avenue, offering access to some clinics. However, the frequency of these routes is often limited, with wait times potentially exceeding 30 minutes. This can be a significant barrier for individuals with hypertension, who may need to attend multiple appointments per week.

The CCTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and lifts for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still pose challenges for those with mobility limitations. The ability to navigate the bus stops, which may not always have shelters or seating, can also be a concern.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in Anniston, offering an alternative to public transit. The availability of these services, however, can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-shares can also be a significant factor, especially for individuals on fixed incomes or those requiring frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services are another option for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting to appointments. These services typically involve specialized vehicles and trained personnel to provide safe and comfortable transportation. Several medical transport providers operate in the Anniston area, including local companies and national brands.

The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the provider. It is essential for individuals to research and compare prices before scheduling a ride. Some insurance plans may cover medical transport, so it is important to check with your insurance provider.

**Hypertension Score Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for accessing healthcare in ZIP code 36205 is moderately challenging. The score is affected by the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options.

* **Driving:** Moderate. Drive times to RMC and other healthcare facilities are generally manageable, but traffic congestion and parking limitations can pose challenges.
* **Public Transit:** Low. The limited route coverage, infrequent service, and reduced operating hours of the CCTA significantly hinder healthcare access.
* **Ride-Share:** Moderate. Availability can fluctuate, and the cost can be a barrier for some.
* **Medical Transport:** Moderate. Availability of medical transport services provides an important option, but costs and insurance coverage need to be considered.

**Overall Score: 5/10**

This score reflects the need for individuals with hypertension to carefully plan their transportation to healthcare appointments. Reliance on personal vehicles is often necessary, and exploring options like ride-shares and medical transport is crucial.

**Recommendations**

* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments during off-peak hours to minimize traffic delays.
* **Explore Options:** Research and compare the costs and availability of ride-share and medical transport services.
* **Advocate for Improvement:** Support initiatives aimed at expanding public transit services and improving healthcare access in the community.
* **Consider Location:** When moving to Anniston, consider proximity to healthcare facilities and access to major roadways.

Navigating the transportation landscape is a vital aspect of managing hypertension in Anniston. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, residents can ensure they receive the timely and consistent care they need to maintain their health and well-being. This assessment provides a starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities of healthcare access in ZIP code 36205, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.