36360, Ozark, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36360, Ozark, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.75 percent of residents in 36360 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dale Medical Center with a distance of 1.46 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ozark, Alabama (ZIP Code 36360)

The siren song of a slower pace, the allure of community, and the promise of affordable living – these are the whispers that beckon individuals and families to consider a move to Ozark, Alabama, ZIP code 36360. But amidst the charm, a crucial consideration often lingers: healthcare access, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up delves into the intricacies of navigating transportation to healthcare facilities within and around Ozark, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities for residents.

Ozark, a city steeped in Southern hospitality, is the county seat of Dale County. Its residents, like those across the nation, grapple with the realities of hypertension, a condition demanding consistent medical attention. Effective management hinges on timely access to medical appointments, medication refills, and specialized care. The ability to reliably access healthcare, therefore, becomes a critical factor in assessing the overall quality of life in Ozark. This assessment incorporates drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape.

**The Highway to Healthcare: Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary arteries connecting Ozark to healthcare facilities are the highways and roadways. Highway 231, the main north-south thoroughfare, serves as the backbone for travel. Driving north on Highway 231 offers access to Dothan, a regional hub for healthcare. The drive to Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan, a major hospital offering comprehensive services, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey necessitates careful planning, especially for those with mobility limitations or who experience frequent health challenges.

Highway 27, running east-west, provides another avenue for travel. It connects Ozark to Enterprise, another city with healthcare options. The drive to Medical Center Enterprise is generally shorter, around 20-30 minutes, offering a more convenient alternative for certain medical needs. However, the condition of the roads and traffic flow on both highways can fluctuate, impacting travel times and potentially increasing stress levels for individuals with hypertension.

Local roads, such as West College Street, East Broad Street, and South Union Avenue, provide access to local clinics and medical offices within Ozark. These routes offer shorter travel times, often under 10 minutes, making them convenient for routine check-ups and medication refills. However, the availability of specialized care and advanced medical services is often limited within Ozark, necessitating travel to Dothan or Enterprise.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Ozark are limited, presenting a significant challenge for residents who do not have access to a personal vehicle. Dale County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts the ability of individuals with hypertension, particularly those with limited mobility or financial constraints, to access healthcare.

The absence of a robust public transit system necessitates reliance on other transportation methods. While the city is generally walkable, the distances to healthcare facilities and the often-unpredictable weather conditions can make walking an impractical option for many. The lack of ADA-accessible public transit exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities, further limiting their healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ozark, offering a potential solution for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of drivers can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or in the evenings. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, play a crucial role in assisting individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions. These services offer door-to-door transportation, ensuring safe and comfortable travel to medical appointments. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often required, potentially adding to the logistical burden of healthcare access.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, a "Hypertension Score" for Ozark, Alabama (ZIP Code 36360) would reflect a moderate level of healthcare access. While the presence of local clinics and medical offices within Ozark offers convenience for routine care, the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for specialized services and emergency care presents challenges.

The drive times to major healthcare facilities in Dothan and Enterprise, while manageable, can be impacted by traffic and road conditions. The limited public transit options and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services further complicate the picture.

**Moving to Ozark: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering a move to Ozark, especially those managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements is crucial. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The decision to move to Ozark should be weighed against the potential challenges of healthcare access. While the city offers a welcoming community and a slower pace of life, the limitations in transportation options must be carefully considered. Planning ahead, exploring all available resources, and establishing a reliable transportation plan are essential steps for ensuring consistent and timely access to healthcare, contributing to the overall well-being of residents managing hypertension. This proactive approach will help ensure that the move to Ozark is a positive one, allowing individuals to embrace the community while maintaining their health.