36444, Franklin, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36444, Franklin, Alabama is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.74 percent of residents in 36444 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Hospital with a distance of 13.82 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 36444

Considering a move to Franklin, Alabama (ZIP Code 36444)? Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially if managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for consistent medical attention. We'll delve into drive times, public transit possibilities, and ride-sharing alternatives, all vital components of ensuring timely healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal medical metric but a practical evaluation of how easily residents can reach medical care in this specific ZIP code. Factors considered include the availability and reliability of transportation, which directly impacts the ability to manage hypertension effectively. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits necessitate dependable transportation options.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

Franklin, Alabama, is primarily served by a network of rural roads, with the primary artery being **Highway 31**. This north-south thoroughfare offers the most direct route to larger towns and cities where specialized medical care might be located. The drive to Atmore, approximately 20 miles south on Highway 31, takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Atmore hosts Atmore Community Hospital, a critical access facility providing essential services.

Traveling north on **Highway 31** towards Brewton, about 25 miles, will require approximately 40-50 minutes. Brewton offers D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital, another crucial healthcare provider. The drive time estimations consider typical rural road speeds and the potential for encountering slow-moving vehicles or seasonal delays.

Within Franklin itself, local roads like **Old Highway 31** and various county roads provide access to local clinics and physician offices. These routes are generally less congested, allowing for shorter travel times within the immediate area. However, the limited number of healthcare providers *within* Franklin underscores the importance of readily available transportation to nearby towns.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 36444 are extremely limited. Escambia County, in which Franklin is located, does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The absence of reliable public transportation can create significant barriers to healthcare access, especially for those with limited mobility or financial constraints.

The lack of public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative options, which can be more expensive and less readily available. The absence of a bus system also means that there are no routes with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, further exacerbating the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may have limited availability, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially impacting the ability to afford regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance services or specialized medical transport companies, are available for those requiring assistance. These services are typically reserved for medical emergencies or for individuals with significant mobility limitations. However, they can be costly and may require pre-booking.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

While specific medical transportation brands operating directly *within* Franklin are difficult to pinpoint, residents can contact local ambulance services, such as Escambia County EMS, for emergency or non-emergency transport. Additionally, contacting local hospitals in Atmore and Brewton can provide information on medical transport services they may contract with.

**Impact on the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 36444 is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. This means that individuals managing hypertension in Franklin may face greater challenges in accessing timely and consistent medical care.

**Recommendations for Improving the Hypertension Score:**

Improving the Hypertension Score requires addressing the transportation limitations. This could involve advocating for the implementation of a demand-response public transportation system, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation to medical appointments, or supporting the expansion of medical transportation services within the community.

Additionally, increasing the number of healthcare providers within Franklin itself would significantly improve healthcare access. This could involve attracting new physicians, establishing telehealth services, or expanding the services offered by existing clinics.

**Moving to Franklin with Hypertension:**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to Franklin, Alabama, a careful assessment of transportation needs is essential. The limited transportation options require proactive planning. Consider the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is almost a necessity.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Prioritize housing locations closer to Highway 31 for easier access to healthcare facilities in Atmore or Brewton.
* **Emergency Planning:** Establish a plan for emergency transportation, including contact information for ambulance services and medical transport providers.
* **Financial Considerations:** Factor in the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation when budgeting for healthcare expenses.
* **Telehealth Options:** Explore telehealth options with your healthcare provider to reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Conclusion:**

While Franklin, Alabama, offers a peaceful rural setting, the lack of readily available transportation presents challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options when considering a move to this ZIP code. Proactive planning, including securing reliable transportation and exploring alternative healthcare delivery methods, is crucial for ensuring consistent healthcare access and effectively managing hypertension. The community could benefit from initiatives to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a healthier population.