36401, Evergreen, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36401, Evergreen, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.96 percent of residents in 36401 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Evergreen Medical Center with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Evergreen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36401)

The heart of Evergreen, Alabama, nestled within the verdant embrace of Conecuh County, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities for residents seeking quality healthcare. This analysis focuses on the critical aspect of **healthcare access** for individuals managing hypertension, a condition demanding consistent care and medication adherence. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 36401, considering the nuances of **transportation** options available to those living with this chronic illness. This score will inform anyone considering **moving to Evergreen**, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the drive times to essential healthcare facilities. The primary healthcare provider for many Evergreen residents is the Evergreen Medical Center, a facility offering a range of services, including cardiology and internal medicine, crucial for hypertension management. Accessing this facility is generally straightforward, with the main artery being U.S. Highway 83, which bisects the town. Drive times from most residential areas within the 36401 ZIP code are typically under 10 minutes, offering a significant advantage in terms of timely access to care.

However, specialized care often necessitates travel beyond Evergreen's borders. For cardiology specialists, the nearest options are in larger cities like Brewton (approximately 30 minutes via U.S. Highway 31) or Monroeville (around 45 minutes via U.S. Highway 84). These drive times, while manageable, can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing acute hypertension episodes. Emergency situations would likely involve transport via U.S. Highway 83 or U.S. Highway 31, depending on the location of the emergency.

The role of public transit in facilitating **healthcare access** in Evergreen is, unfortunately, limited. The town does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public **transportation** presents a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly and individuals with disabilities. This void underscores the importance of alternative **transportation** solutions for those reliant on them.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Evergreen. This absence further restricts **transportation** options, leaving residents with limited alternatives. The reliance on personal vehicles or, for those unable to drive, assistance from family, friends, or community resources becomes paramount.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical appointments, offer a viable solution. Several companies operate in the region, including MedStar Medical Transport and AMR (American Medical Response). These services provide door-to-door **transportation**, ensuring individuals can reach their appointments safely and comfortably. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, requiring careful planning and financial consideration.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to **transportation** and healthcare. While Evergreen’s public **transportation** options are lacking, medical **transportation** services are mandated to comply with ADA regulations, providing accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with disabilities. This compliance ensures that individuals with mobility limitations can access the care they need.

The "Hypertension Score" for Evergreen, Alabama, within ZIP Code 36401, is a complex calculation. The score considers drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public **transportation**, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical **transportation**. The relatively short drive times to Evergreen Medical Center contribute positively to the score. However, the absence of public **transportation** and ride-sharing, coupled with the reliance on medical **transportation** for specialized care, negatively impacts the overall score.

For individuals considering **moving to Evergreen** with hypertension, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. Those with personal vehicles will find **healthcare access** relatively straightforward. However, those without vehicles must carefully evaluate the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services and the support network available to them.

The community's commitment to **healthcare access** is evident in the presence of the Evergreen Medical Center. However, the limitations in **transportation** options highlight the need for continued efforts to improve **healthcare access** for all residents. This could involve exploring partnerships with medical **transportation** providers, advocating for the development of a local public **transportation** system, or promoting community-based initiatives to assist individuals with **transportation** needs.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic reflection of the evolving landscape of **healthcare access** in Evergreen. As the community grows and adapts, so too will the **transportation** options available to its residents. Understanding these complexities is crucial for anyone seeking to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their place within the community. The ability to navigate these challenges is paramount to successful hypertension management.