36351, New Brockton, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36351, New Brockton, Alabama is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.61 percent of residents in 36351 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Center Enterprise with a distance of 6.45 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in New Brockton, Alabama (ZIP Code 36351)

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical consideration, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within and around New Brockton, Alabama (ZIP Code 36351), evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment reflecting the challenges and opportunities for those seeking accessible healthcare. This is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to New Brockton, as understanding the local transportation infrastructure is vital for ensuring consistent medical care.

The primary focus is on accessibility to healthcare facilities capable of managing hypertension. These include primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and specialized clinics. The ease of reaching these facilities directly impacts medication adherence, follow-up appointments, and overall health outcomes. The analysis will consider the time required to travel to these resources, the availability of alternative transportation methods, and the potential barriers faced by individuals with mobility limitations.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

For most residents of New Brockton, the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are Alabama State Route 27 (AL-27) and U.S. Route 84 (US-84). AL-27 runs north-south, offering a direct route to Enterprise, approximately 10 miles south. US-84, traversing east-west, provides access to Dothan, roughly 25 miles east, and further west toward Andalusia.

Drive times are subject to traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. A typical drive to Enterprise via AL-27 can take 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. Reaching Dothan via US-84, however, can extend to 30-40 minutes, influenced by higher traffic volumes and potential congestion. These times are crucial for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis or requiring urgent medical attention. Delays can have significant health consequences.

Smaller roads like County Road 400 (CR-400) and County Road 300 (CR-300) provide alternative routes, but they are often less well-maintained and may not be suitable for all vehicles or individuals with mobility concerns. The condition of these roads can also impact emergency response times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options within and around New Brockton are severely limited. The Wiregrass Transit Authority, serving the broader Wiregrass region, may offer some routes, but their frequency and coverage are often insufficient to meet the needs of residents, especially those requiring regular medical appointments. Information on specific routes serving New Brockton is difficult to find, and their operating hours may not align with the schedules of healthcare facilities.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities. If public transit options exist, it is essential to confirm that they provide accessible features, such as ramps or lifts, and designated seating. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Potential Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may operate in the area, though their availability and reliability are not guaranteed. The presence of these services is often dependent on driver density, and wait times can vary significantly, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, their availability and cost vary. Researching local medical transport providers is essential for anyone who requires this type of service.

**Pharmacies and Healthcare Facilities: Proximity Matters**

The location of pharmacies and healthcare facilities within and around New Brockton significantly impacts healthcare access. The proximity of these resources to residential areas influences the ease with which residents can obtain medications and attend appointments. The presence of multiple pharmacies and healthcare providers fosters competition, potentially leading to lower costs and improved services.

The availability of specialized healthcare services, such as cardiology, is another crucial factor. Residents may need to travel to larger cities, such as Dothan, to access these services, further increasing transportation challenges.

**The Hypertension Score: Assessing the Landscape**

Based on the factors discussed, a "Hypertension Score" for New Brockton, Alabama, reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers. The distance to healthcare facilities, particularly for specialized services, further exacerbates these challenges.

The score would consider the following: average drive times to primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies; the availability and accessibility of public transit; the presence and reliability of ride-sharing services; the cost of transportation; and the proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas.

For individuals managing hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" would likely be moderate, reflecting the difficulties of accessing healthcare due to transportation limitations. This score highlights the importance of proactive planning, including securing reliable transportation, understanding available resources, and potentially considering the location of healthcare facilities when making housing decisions.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For residents of New Brockton, accessing healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension, requires careful consideration of transportation options. While driving remains the primary mode, the limited public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the distances to specialized healthcare facilities create challenges.

Anyone considering moving to New Brockton should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare services, the accessibility of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with travel. This information is vital for making informed decisions about their health and well-being. Proactive planning, including establishing reliable transportation arrangements, is crucial for ensuring consistent access to medical care and effectively managing hypertension. This is an important aspect to consider when moving to New Brockton.