36322, Daleville, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36322, Daleville, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.63 percent of residents in 36322 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Center Enterprise with a distance of 8.36 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Daleville, Alabama (ZIP Code 36322)

Daleville, Alabama, nestled in the heart of the Wiregrass region, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation options available within ZIP Code 36322, aiming to create a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease of access to medical care. This score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how residents can effectively navigate the transportation landscape to manage their health, especially if they are considering moving to Daleville.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Daleville is the availability of transportation. For residents managing hypertension, timely and reliable transportation to medical appointments is paramount. The primary mode of transportation for most Daleville residents is the personal vehicle. The town's layout, while generally accessible, necessitates reliance on roadways for reaching healthcare providers.

Driving times to medical facilities are a critical component of our Hypertension Score. The primary artery for accessing healthcare outside of Daleville is Highway 84, connecting the town to larger cities like Enterprise and Dothan. Driving to medical centers in Enterprise, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, offers access to a broader range of specialists and services. This drive, however, is subject to traffic fluctuations, especially during peak hours.

Heading west on Highway 84 leads to Dothan, a larger city with more extensive healthcare infrastructure. The drive to Dothan, typically taking 30-40 minutes, opens doors to major hospitals, specialized clinics, and comprehensive medical services. This longer commute, while offering more options, can present a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, particularly if they experience symptoms during travel.

Within Daleville, several medical clinics and pharmacies provide essential healthcare services. Accessing these facilities generally involves shorter drive times, typically less than 10 minutes. Roads like Daleville Avenue and Rucker Boulevard serve as vital connectors within the town, facilitating easy access to local healthcare providers.

Public transportation options in Daleville are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for residents who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. This lack of public transportation can disproportionately affect individuals with hypertension, especially those with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford the costs associated with owning and maintaining a vehicle.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offers an alternative transportation solution. However, the reliability and cost-effectiveness of these services in Daleville may vary. Ride-sharing availability can be influenced by factors like driver availability and demand. This variability can make it difficult for individuals with hypertension to schedule and reliably attend medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, are another option. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, offer non-emergency medical transport. While these services can provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with limited mobility or those requiring assistance, they often come with higher costs.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of transportation options is another critical consideration. For individuals with hypertension who may also have mobility issues, the availability of accessible transportation is essential. The lack of accessible public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services highlight the need for increased accessibility in Daleville's transportation infrastructure.

The "Hypertension Score" for Daleville, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While the town offers relatively easy access to local healthcare providers and the option of drive-sharing, the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. The longer drive times to major medical centers in Enterprise and Dothan can pose difficulties for individuals with hypertension, especially in the event of a medical emergency.

For those considering moving to Daleville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate the availability of transportation options, considering their ability to drive, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs of medical transportation.

The future of healthcare access in Daleville may depend on initiatives that enhance transportation options. These could include exploring the feasibility of expanding public transit services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments, and promoting the availability of medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Daleville highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the transportation landscape. Residents with hypertension must carefully consider their transportation needs and explore all available options to ensure timely access to medical care. This will enable them to effectively manage their condition and maintain their quality of life.