36553, Mc Intosh, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36553, Mc Intosh, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.48 percent of residents in 36553 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hospital with a distance of 18.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in McIntosh, Alabama (ZIP Code 36553)

The pursuit of optimal health, especially for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates seamless **healthcare access**. This write-up meticulously examines the **transportation** landscape in McIntosh, Alabama (ZIP Code 36553), evaluating its impact on accessing vital medical care. We will explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those **moving to McIntosh**, particularly those with hypertension. This analysis aims to contribute to a "Hypertension Score," a metric reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare providers.

McIntosh, a charming community nestled in Washington County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area dictates a reliance on personal vehicles for most journeys. However, understanding the nuances of available **transportation** options is crucial for managing hypertension effectively. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits demand reliable and timely access to medical facilities.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare**

The primary arteries for **transportation** in and out of McIntosh are State Route 43 and County Road 17. Accessing specialized care, particularly for cardiology or nephrology, often requires traveling to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Mobile or Jackson. The drive to Mobile, approximately 60 miles south, can take between one and two hours, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This journey primarily involves navigating State Route 43, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours.

Traveling north to Jackson, a smaller city, is a shorter drive, typically around 30 minutes via State Route 43. However, the healthcare options in Jackson are more limited, primarily focusing on general practice and urgent care. The condition of these roadways, particularly after inclement weather, can impact travel times and pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing medical emergencies.

The availability of reliable **transportation** is paramount. Those **moving to McIntosh** with pre-existing conditions, such as hypertension, should carefully consider these drive times and the potential impact on their healthcare routine. Planning for regular appointments, especially during inclement weather or peak traffic times, is crucial.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit in McIntosh is extremely limited. Washington County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of robust public **transportation** significantly impacts **healthcare access** for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. This limitation presents a considerable challenge for those managing hypertension, as it can hinder their ability to attend regular medical appointments and access necessary medications.

ADA-compliant options are virtually nonexistent within the immediate vicinity of McIntosh. This further restricts the mobility of individuals with disabilities, compounding the difficulties in accessing healthcare. The absence of public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mobile area. However, their presence in McIntosh and the surrounding rural areas is sporadic and unreliable. Availability depends heavily on driver availability and demand, potentially leading to delays or cancellations, especially during off-peak hours or emergencies. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be risky.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services, often operated by private companies, provide non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. Several medical transport providers serve the Washington County area, including local ambulance services that offer non-emergency transport.

These services, while valuable, often require advance booking and may incur significant costs. The cost factor can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources. Researching and comparing the services offered by different providers is essential to find the most suitable and affordable option.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Some of the medical transport brands that service the area are:

* **Washington County Ambulance Service:** This local service provides both emergency and non-emergency medical transport within Washington County.
* **Care Ride Medical Transportation:** This is a national brand that may provide services in the area.
* **Local Private Ambulance Services:** There are several private ambulance services in the area that may provide non-emergency medical transport.

**The Hypertension Score: Assessing Healthcare Access**

The "Hypertension Score" for McIntosh, Alabama (36553) reflects the combined impact of these factors on **healthcare access** for individuals managing hypertension. The score would consider:

* **Drive Times:** The average time to reach primary care physicians, specialists (cardiologists, nephrologists), and emergency rooms.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence or absence of public transit options and their accessibility features.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance and ease of access to pharmacies for medication refills.

A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing healthcare, while a high score would reflect a more favorable environment.

For individuals with hypertension, a low score would necessitate careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services. Regular appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency visits require reliable and timely access to medical facilities. The absence of robust public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services can significantly impact **healthcare access**.

**Implications for Moving to McIntosh**

For those **moving to McIntosh**, particularly individuals with hypertension, a thorough assessment of these **transportation** factors is crucial. Consider the following:

* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** Choose a residence within a reasonable driving distance of healthcare providers and pharmacies.
* **Vehicle Ownership:** Ensure reliable access to a vehicle or explore alternative **transportation** options.
* **Medical Transport Planning:** Research and identify reliable medical transport services and establish a plan for regular appointments and emergencies.
* **Medication Management:** Establish a system for timely medication refills and consider mail-order pharmacy options.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest emergency room and establish a plan for emergencies.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road to Wellness**

The **transportation** landscape in McIntosh, Alabama (36553), presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. While the reliance on personal vehicles is significant, the availability of medical transport services and the proximity to larger medical centers in Mobile offer avenues for accessing essential healthcare. Understanding the nuances of these options, planning proactively, and considering the implications of limited public transit are crucial steps in ensuring optimal health and well-being. For those **moving to McIntosh**, a comprehensive assessment of these factors is essential to ensure seamless **healthcare access** and effective management of hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare and guiding individuals in making informed decisions about their health and well-being.