36567, Robertsdale, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36567, Robertsdale, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.63 percent of residents in 36567 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Baldwin Regional Medical Center with a distance of 11.10 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Robertsdale (ZIP Code 36567)

Robertsdale, Alabama, nestled in Baldwin County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking accessible healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" analysis, examines the transportation infrastructure within and around ZIP Code 36567, focusing on how easily residents can reach essential medical services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for current residents and those considering moving to Robertsdale, specifically addressing the critical link between transportation and healthcare access.

The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical appointments is paramount for individuals managing hypertension. Consistent access to medication refills, check-ups, and specialist consultations significantly impacts health outcomes. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, assessing their feasibility and potential challenges for residents in Robertsdale.

### The Road to Care: Driving Times and Routes

The primary mode of transportation in Robertsdale, as in much of Baldwin County, is the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on driving to access healthcare facilities. The major thoroughfare in the area is **Highway 90**, which runs east-west, providing a direct route to several medical providers. Accessing healthcare via Highway 90 is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can impact drive times.

Another critical road is **Highway 59**, running north-south. It provides access to larger medical centers and specialist practices located further afield. Depending on the specific destination, travel times on Highway 59 can vary significantly. For instance, a trip to a clinic in Foley, just south of Robertsdale, might take approximately 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Traveling north on Highway 59 to access healthcare in Bay Minette could take 20-30 minutes.

Smaller roads like **County Road 64** and **County Road 48** offer alternative routes, but they may be less direct and potentially slower, particularly if the patient's destination is not directly along these routes. Understanding these drive times is essential for managing hypertension, as timely access to medical care is critical.

### Public Transit: A Limited Option

Public transportation options in Robertsdale and Baldwin County are limited. The availability of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. The current public transit infrastructure presents challenges for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The primary public transportation provider is the **Baldwin County Area Transportation System (BCATS)**. However, BCATS primarily offers demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or spontaneous appointments. BCATS provides curb-to-curb service, which is a significant advantage for individuals with mobility limitations.

The specific routes and schedules of BCATS are subject to change, so it is crucial for residents to contact the service directly for the most up-to-date information. BCATS does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking can pose significant hurdles for those seeking timely healthcare access.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer an alternative transportation option. Their availability in Robertsdale is increasing, but it is still not as widespread as in larger metropolitan areas. The reliability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand.

Medical transportation services, such as **Care Ride** and **MedStar**, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. However, these services may require advance booking and could be more expensive than other transportation options.

### Healthcare Access and Moving to Robertsdale

For individuals considering moving to Robertsdale, the transportation infrastructure's impact on healthcare access is a crucial factor. The Hypertension Score, in this context, is not a formal numerical score but a qualitative assessment of the ease with which residents can access medical care. The availability of personal vehicles and the growing presence of ride-sharing services offer some advantages.

However, the limited public transit options and the potential reliance on pre-booked medical transportation services present challenges. Individuals with hypertension should carefully consider their transportation needs and the availability of medical services when evaluating Robertsdale as a potential place to live.

### Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective

The "Hypertension Score" for Robertsdale, Alabama, is a nuanced assessment. While the dependence on personal vehicles offers flexibility, the limited public transit and the reliance on pre-booked services create potential barriers to healthcare access. The growing availability of ride-sharing services and the presence of medical transportation providers offer alternative solutions.

For those managing hypertension, a thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape is essential. This includes knowing drive times, understanding the limitations of public transit, and exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation options. By carefully considering these factors, residents and potential newcomers can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being in Robertsdale.