36460, Monroeville, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36460, Monroeville, Alabama is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.74 percent of residents in 36460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Hospital with a distance of 0.68 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Monroeville, Alabama (ZIP Code 36460)

Considering a move to Monroeville, Alabama (ZIP code 36460) and managing hypertension? Understanding your **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up analyzes the **transportation** landscape, crucial for regular medical appointments, medication refills, and potential emergencies. We'll assess the "Hypertension Score" – a subjective measure reflecting the ease of reaching necessary healthcare services from various points within Monroeville. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all vital components for managing hypertension effectively.

Monroeville, the "Literary Capital of Alabama," boasts a rich history and a close-knit community. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The availability of specialists, the proximity of hospitals, and the reliability of **transportation** options significantly impact the quality of care for residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

**The Hypertension Score Framework:**

Our score will be based on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing severely limited access and 5 indicating excellent access. Factors considered include the distance to primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency services; the availability and reliability of **transportation** options; and the overall ease of navigating the **healthcare access** landscape.

**Driving Times: The Backbone of Access**

For many residents, driving is the primary mode of **transportation**. The central hub for healthcare in Monroeville is the Monroe County Hospital, located on Alabama Highway 21. From various points within the city, drive times to the hospital are generally reasonable, offering a solid foundation for our score.

Traveling from the northern reaches of Monroeville, perhaps near the intersection of Highway 21 and Alabama Highway 41, a drive to the hospital typically takes around 5-10 minutes. Residents residing closer to the downtown area, near the historic courthouse, enjoy even quicker access, often reaching the hospital within 2-5 minutes. South of the city, along Highway 21 towards Beatrice, the drive time might extend to 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Highway 84, running east-west, provides another crucial artery for **transportation**. While it doesn't directly lead to the hospital, it connects Monroeville to neighboring towns and healthcare facilities. Driving to Atmore, for instance, which may offer specialized care, could take approximately 45 minutes via Highway 21 south and then Highway 31. The condition of these roads and potential traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, are factors that can impact our score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Monroeville are limited, which significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system poses a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations.

While specific bus routes and schedules are not readily available for Monroeville, it's essential to inquire with local authorities about any existing or planned public transit initiatives. The presence of accessible buses with ADA-compliant features would be a significant boon for residents. Such a system could improve **healthcare access** for those unable to drive, enhancing their ability to attend appointments and manage their hypertension.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Monroeville. This is a major drawback, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing availability makes it a less reliable option for scheduled medical appointments.

However, medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients, may offer a more dependable alternative. These services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, can be pre-booked and offer door-to-door service. Their availability and cost are crucial factors in our score.

**Pharmacies: Medication Accessibility**

Access to pharmacies is critical for managing hypertension. Monroeville has several local pharmacies, including those within retail stores. This ensures convenient access to medications and refills, a crucial element in maintaining consistent treatment. The proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and the hospital positively impacts our score.

**Emergency Services: Immediate Care**

The presence of the Monroe County Hospital, with its emergency room, is a significant asset for residents. The proximity of emergency services is paramount for managing hypertension, especially in the event of a hypertensive crisis. The availability of ambulances and the hospital's capacity to handle emergencies are vital components of our score.

**The Hypertension Score for Monroeville (36460)**

Considering all factors, the Hypertension Score for Monroeville, Alabama (36460) is a **3 out of 5**.

* **Strengths:** Relatively short drive times to the hospital and local pharmacies, a dedicated emergency room, and the presence of medical **transportation** options.
* **Weaknesses:** Limited public transit, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the potential need to travel to larger cities for specialized care.

**Moving to Monroeville: Considerations for Hypertension Management**

For individuals considering **moving to Monroeville** and managing hypertension, careful planning is essential. Prioritize finding a primary care physician within easy driving distance. Investigate the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services. Explore options for medication delivery, such as mail-order pharmacies. Ensure you have a reliable plan for attending regular appointments and accessing emergency care.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Monroeville presents both opportunities and challenges. By understanding the **transportation** options, planning ahead, and utilizing available resources, residents can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their health. The Hypertension Score provides a framework for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being in this charming Alabama town.