36505, Axis, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36505, Axis, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.30 percent of residents in 36505 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Baldwin Infirmary with a distance of 15.11 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Accessing Healthcare in Axis, Alabama (ZIP Code 36505)

Axis, Alabama, nestled within the embrace of Mobile County, presents a unique landscape for residents managing hypertension. Evaluating healthcare access requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of medical professionals but also the ease with which individuals can reach them. This 'Hypertension Score' delves into the transportation infrastructure of ZIP Code 36505, assessing the challenges and opportunities for accessing vital healthcare services.

The primary artery for movement in Axis is Highway 43, a north-south thoroughfare that connects the community to Mobile and surrounding areas. Driving is undoubtedly the most common mode of transportation. However, relying solely on personal vehicles presents challenges for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The drive time to the closest primary care physician within Axis is relatively short, typically under 10 minutes, but specialized care and emergency services often necessitate longer journeys.

For instance, accessing the University of South Alabama Medical Center in Mobile, a major regional healthcare hub, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on Highway 43 and Interstate 65. This journey can be particularly arduous during peak hours, potentially delaying critical medical attention. This reliance on personal vehicles significantly impacts the 'Hypertension Score,' especially for individuals with limited mobility or those who require frequent medical appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in Axis, impacting healthcare access. The Mobile Transit Authority (MTA) operates a bus network, but service to Axis is infrequent and lacks direct routes to major healthcare facilities. The closest MTA bus stop to Axis is located on Highway 43. This requires a walk or a transfer to reach the bus stop. The limited frequency of buses and the absence of ADA-accessible features on all routes further compound the difficulties for individuals with disabilities or those needing assistance.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation solution. However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or with multiple medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing also fluctuates, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand.

Medical transportation services, like CareRide and American Medical Response (AMR), are also available for non-emergency medical transport. These services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. While providing a valuable service, the cost of these specialized transports can be substantial, further impacting the overall 'Hypertension Score.'

Axis residents seeking to move to healthcare in Axis must carefully consider the transportation landscape. The availability of transportation significantly influences the ability to manage hypertension effectively. Frequent medical appointments, medication refills, and access to specialized care are crucial for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications.

The 'Hypertension Score' for Axis is influenced by the geographical layout and the availability of healthcare services. The concentration of healthcare providers in Mobile necessitates travel, increasing the time and effort required to access care. The lack of robust public transportation options further exacerbates the challenges, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some relief, but the associated costs can be a barrier for some. The drive times to healthcare facilities, especially during peak hours, must be factored into the equation. The overall 'Hypertension Score' reflects the need for improved transportation infrastructure to enhance healthcare access for residents of Axis.

Improving the 'Hypertension Score' in Axis requires a multi-pronged approach. Expanding the MTA bus routes to include more frequent service to and from Axis, with ADA-accessible features on all buses, would significantly improve access for those reliant on public transportation. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income residents or those with chronic health conditions could also alleviate the financial burden of transportation.

Encouraging the development of telehealth services, where possible, could reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and medication management. Promoting community-based health programs and mobile health clinics within Axis could also bring healthcare services closer to residents, reducing the need for travel.

Furthermore, the ongoing development of Highway 43 and Interstate 65 should prioritize traffic flow improvements to reduce drive times to healthcare facilities. These improvements, such as widening lanes and optimizing traffic signals, would benefit all residents, particularly those with urgent medical needs.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of residents in Axis. The ability to easily and affordably access healthcare is paramount to managing hypertension and improving overall health outcomes. The integration of these elements will ensure that Axis residents can move to healthcare in Axis with a greater sense of security and ease.

The 'Hypertension Score' is a dynamic assessment, and the landscape of healthcare access in Axis is constantly evolving. The implementation of these recommendations, along with continued monitoring and evaluation, will be crucial to improving the 'Hypertension Score' and ensuring that all residents of Axis have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives.