36312, Ashford, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36312, Ashford, Alabama is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.38 percent of residents in 36312 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeast Health Medical Center with a distance of 7.46 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Ashford, Alabama (ZIP Code 36312)

Ashford, Alabama, nestled in Houston County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. A "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 36312, therefore, must evaluate the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, considering the specific transportation landscape of this rural community. This write-up will delve into the various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access for those living with, or at risk of, hypertension.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Ashford is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The ability to drive to appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care facilities is paramount. The primary arteries for movement are US Highway 84, running east-west, and Alabama State Route 134, which travels north-south. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting drive times, especially for those residing further from Dothan, the regional hub for specialized medical care.

A resident of Ashford, perhaps newly moving to the area, might find themselves needing to travel to Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan. This journey, typically around 15-20 minutes via US-84 East, is manageable for most. However, complications like traffic accidents or inclement weather could significantly extend this commute, posing a potential risk for individuals requiring immediate medical attention or regular medication refills.

Public transportation in Ashford, and indeed much of Houston County, is limited. The Dothan Area Public Transit (DAPT) offers a fixed-route bus system within the city of Dothan. However, these routes rarely extend into Ashford, leaving residents with limited options. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. The lack of ADA-accessible buses further exacerbates this issue, potentially isolating those with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Dothan area, including Ashford. Their availability, however, can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be expensive and unreliable, especially for individuals on a fixed income. The fluctuating fares and potential wait times also introduce an element of uncertainty, which can be stressful for those managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. These services typically cater to patients requiring assistance with mobility or those who cannot drive themselves. Several companies operate in the Dothan area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited, especially during peak demand. This can pose a significant financial burden for individuals with hypertension, who often require frequent medical check-ups and medication refills.

For those moving to Ashford, understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial. The availability of healthcare access hinges on the transportation options available. A prospective resident should carefully consider their transportation needs and the potential challenges they might face. The drive-time to medical facilities, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options should all be factored into the decision-making process.

The availability of pharmacies within Ashford itself is a critical component of healthcare access. Having convenient access to medication refills is essential for managing hypertension. The presence of local pharmacies, offering prescription services and over-the-counter medications, can significantly reduce the burden on residents, minimizing the need for frequent trips to Dothan.

The distance to specialty care providers, such as cardiologists and endocrinologists, is another important consideration. Individuals with hypertension often require specialized care and monitoring. The drive-time to these specialists, located primarily in Dothan, can impact the frequency and ease of accessing necessary medical services.

The "Hypertension Score" for Ashford, therefore, would need to weigh the various factors discussed above. It would consider the drive-times to essential medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services, the proximity of pharmacies, and the accessibility of specialty care providers. This comprehensive assessment would provide a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and informing strategies to improve healthcare access for individuals with hypertension.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents of Ashford, regardless of their transportation limitations, can readily access the medical care they need to effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their overall health. This includes advocating for improved public transportation options, promoting the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and supporting the expansion of medical transportation services. Furthermore, it necessitates fostering a community that prioritizes the health and well-being of all its members, providing a supportive environment for those living with chronic conditions like hypertension.