36318, Coffee Springs, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36318, Coffee Springs, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.78 percent of residents in 36318 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wiregrass Medical Center with a distance of 9.36 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coffee Springs, Alabama (ZIP Code 36318)

Coffee Springs, Alabama, a small community nestled in Geneva County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up, a “Hypertension Score” analysis, examines the transportation infrastructure and available resources within and around ZIP code 36318, crucial for patients needing consistent medical care. The ability to efficiently reach healthcare providers is paramount for managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. This score provides a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities for individuals considering moving to Coffee Springs or already residing there, focusing on the ease of *transportation* to necessary medical appointments.

The foundation of our analysis begins with understanding the geographic constraints. Coffee Springs is a rural area, and *healthcare access* often hinges on the availability of reliable *transportation*. The primary mode of travel is by car. The major roadways serving the area include Alabama State Route 189, which runs directly through Coffee Springs, and Alabama State Route 27, providing access to larger towns and cities. Interstate 10, while not directly accessible, is a reasonable drive away, offering connections to major medical centers in Pensacola, Florida, and Mobile, Alabama.

For those without personal vehicles, the options become significantly limited. Public *transportation* in rural Alabama is often scarce. Geneva County, including Coffee Springs, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There are no fixed-route buses or trains serving the area. This absence presents a considerable barrier for individuals with hypertension, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or economically disadvantaged. The lack of public transit necessitates reliance on other *transportation* methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Their availability is also contingent on driver density, which may be limited in a rural setting. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor for individuals on fixed incomes, potentially impacting their ability to afford regular medical appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are an essential consideration. Several providers operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical *transportation* companies. These services often cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other forms of *transportation*. However, their availability, cost, and the distance they serve must be carefully considered.

Analyzing drive times is critical. To reach the nearest hospitals, residents of Coffee Springs typically face a drive of at least 20 to 30 minutes. Dale Medical Center in Ozark, Alabama, is a common destination, accessible via Alabama State Route 189 and US-231. Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan, Alabama, a larger facility with specialized services, is approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive, primarily via Alabama State Route 27 and US-231. The drive times are subject to traffic conditions, which are generally light in this area, but can be affected by weather.

The physical condition of the roads also impacts travel. Alabama State Route 189 and Alabama State Route 27 are generally well-maintained, but can be subject to potholes and other hazards, especially after heavy rainfall. These road conditions can be problematic for individuals with mobility limitations or those driving older vehicles.

The availability of pharmacies within Coffee Springs is also a key consideration. Access to medication is essential for managing hypertension. Fortunately, there are pharmacies located within a reasonable distance, ensuring patients can easily obtain their prescribed medications. However, the hours of operation and the availability of specific medications should be verified.

For individuals considering *moving to Coffee Springs* and managing hypertension, careful planning is essential. Before relocating, prospective residents should thoroughly assess their *transportation* options and ensure they have a reliable plan for getting to medical appointments. This may involve purchasing a vehicle, establishing a relationship with a ride-sharing service, or identifying a medical *transportation* provider.

The "Hypertension Score" is influenced by several factors. The primary determinant is the accessibility of healthcare providers. The drive times to hospitals, clinics, and specialists are crucial. The availability and reliability of *transportation* options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical *transportation* services, are also key. The affordability of *transportation* and healthcare services is another important consideration.

The absence of public *transportation* significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score" for Coffee Springs. This limitation places a greater burden on individuals who rely on other means of getting to their appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* providers can partially mitigate this challenge, but their cost and availability can be a barrier.

The "Hypertension Score" for Coffee Springs reflects the realities of rural *healthcare access*. While the area offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the *transportation* challenges can create obstacles for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Planning is vital.

The "Hypertension Score" is not static. It can be improved by initiatives that expand *transportation* options, such as exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services or supporting the development of a local medical *transportation* program. Increased awareness of available resources and support services for individuals with hypertension can also enhance the score.

This analysis highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to *healthcare access* in Coffee Springs. It underscores the importance of considering *transportation* as an integral part of the overall health and well-being of residents. For those *moving to Coffee Springs*, a clear understanding of these factors is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare.