36524, Coffeeville, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36524, Coffeeville, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.59 percent of residents in 36524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grove Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.26 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Coffeeville, Alabama (ZIP Code 36524)

Coffeeville, Alabama, nestled in Clarke County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for residents, particularly those managing hypertension. This write-up explores the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment for individuals considering a move to or residing within ZIP code 36524. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the logistical hurdles and available resources, ultimately empowering informed decisions regarding healthcare management.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment, considering the various transportation options available to reach essential healthcare services. It weighs factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, all crucial for individuals needing regular medical attention, including those managing hypertension. The score reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, directly impacting the quality of life for residents.

One of the primary considerations is the geographical reality of Coffeeville. The town's relative isolation, coupled with the rural nature of Clarke County, significantly impacts transportation choices. Personal vehicles remain the dominant mode of transportation, with limited alternatives. This dependency necessitates a careful evaluation of drive times to various healthcare facilities.

The primary route for accessing healthcare from Coffeeville involves navigating the roads. The most direct path often utilizes **Highway 84** east towards Jackson, Alabama, or west towards Coffeeville. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. The drive to Jackson, where the nearest hospital and a broader range of specialist services are located, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Another option involves utilizing **Highway 17** south to gain access to **Highway 43**, which leads to larger towns such as Thomasville. This route can be a viable alternative, offering a slightly different perspective of the landscape. However, this route also has its challenges, particularly with the potential for slower speeds and less frequent maintenance.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are significantly limited. Clarke County does not have a comprehensive public transit system, which is a significant hurdle for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. This lack of public transit severely impacts the "Hypertension Score," as it restricts healthcare access for a substantial portion of the population.

The absence of a robust public transit system places a heavy reliance on ride-sharing services. While ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft are available in some areas, their presence in Coffeeville and the surrounding rural areas is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of these services depends on driver density and demand, making them a less dependable option for regular healthcare appointments. This unreliability further diminishes the "Hypertension Score," especially for individuals with limited mobility or those residing outside of the town's immediate vicinity.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transportation companies operate in the broader region, providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically require advance booking and may involve cost considerations. However, the availability of NEMT services does improve the "Hypertension Score" for those who qualify, providing a viable option for accessing healthcare.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within a reasonable distance is critical for effective hypertension management. Residents of Coffeeville have access to local clinics and pharmacies. However, the limited availability of specialized medical services necessitates travel to larger towns like Jackson or Thomasville.

The distance to these facilities and the reliance on personal transportation or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services significantly impact the "Hypertension Score." The lack of nearby specialist care adds to the complexity of managing hypertension, requiring careful planning and coordination of appointments.

For individuals considering moving to Coffeeville, the "Hypertension Score" provides a crucial framework for evaluating healthcare access. It emphasizes the need to assess personal transportation capabilities, consider the availability of ride-sharing services, and explore the options for medical transportation. Those with pre-existing health conditions, particularly hypertension, must prioritize these factors when making their decision.

The "Hypertension Score" is further influenced by the presence of ADA-compliant features on any available transportation options. While the lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts accessibility, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles in medical transportation services can partially mitigate this deficiency. This consideration is crucial for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations.

Additionally, the availability of telehealth services can significantly improve the "Hypertension Score." Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for frequent travel. The availability of reliable internet access in Coffeeville is crucial for utilizing telehealth services.

For those considering a move to Coffeeville, the "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of meticulous planning. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers, assess their transportation options, and investigate the potential for utilizing telehealth services. The ability to adapt and navigate the transportation landscape is essential for successful healthcare management.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static measure but a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure and healthcare resources. As Coffeeville and Clarke County evolve, improvements in public transit, increased availability of ride-sharing services, or the expansion of telehealth options could positively impact the "Hypertension Score," enhancing healthcare access for all residents.

In conclusion, managing hypertension in Coffeeville (ZIP code 36524) presents unique challenges due to the limitations in transportation options. The "Hypertension Score" reflects these challenges, emphasizing the importance of careful planning, resourcefulness, and adaptability. While the current landscape presents hurdles, proactive measures and a commitment to accessing available resources can enable individuals to effectively manage their health and enjoy a fulfilling life in Coffeeville. The journey to healthcare in Coffeeville is a personal one, requiring careful consideration of the transportation options, the healthcare facilities, and the individual needs of each resident.