36572, Satsuma, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36572, Satsuma, Alabama is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.87 percent of residents in 36572 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Usa Health University Hospital with a distance of 10.55 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Satsuma, Alabama (ZIP Code 36572)

The quaint town of Satsuma, Alabama, nestled within ZIP code 36572, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking accessible healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. The ability to reach medical professionals, pharmacies, and diagnostic facilities is a crucial element in controlling this chronic condition. This write-up will delve into the "Hypertension Score" for Satsuma, examining the complexities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access, especially for individuals considering moving to Satsuma.

The score, a composite of factors, weighs the ease and speed of transportation to vital healthcare services. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score signals potential challenges. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment for residents and those contemplating a move, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The primary arteries for navigating Satsuma and its surrounding areas are Interstate 65 (I-65), providing north-south connectivity, and US Highway 90, traversing east to west. These highways are vital for accessing larger medical facilities in Mobile and surrounding areas. Local roads like Satsuma Highway and Celeste Road serve as connectors to residential areas and smaller healthcare providers. The presence of these major and minor roadways forms the foundation of the transportation infrastructure, directly influencing the Hypertension Score.

Drive times are a critical component of the score. For residents of Satsuma, the closest primary care physicians are typically located within the town or in neighboring communities like Axis and Mobile. A routine appointment might involve a 15-20 minute drive. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, often necessitates travel to Mobile, adding significant time to the equation. The drive to Mobile Regional Airport, a potential option for medical travel, is approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-65.

Traffic, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Morning and afternoon commutes on I-65 can be congested, potentially extending travel times to Mobile by 15-30 minutes. This delay can be especially problematic for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis or needing urgent medical attention. The Hypertension Score, therefore, must factor in these potential delays, recognizing that time is of the essence when managing hypertension.

Public transportation options in Satsuma are limited. The Mobile Transit Authority (MTA) provides bus service within the Mobile metropolitan area, but direct routes to Satsuma are scarce. Residents may need to rely on a combination of routes and transfers, significantly increasing travel time and reducing the overall score. The lack of comprehensive public transit poses a particular challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

The MTA does offer some routes that could be utilized, but the frequency of service and the need for transfers make them less than ideal for regular healthcare appointments. The absence of ADA-compliant features on all routes further complicates matters for individuals with mobility limitations. The limited public transit options significantly impact the Hypertension Score, particularly for those who depend on this mode of transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Satsuma area. However, their availability and reliability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially when considering the frequency of healthcare appointments. While ride-sharing offers a potential solution, its limitations impact the overall score.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized assistance for individuals with mobility challenges or medical needs. These services are crucial for those unable to drive or use public transportation. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency situations.

Several medical transport brands operate in the Mobile area, including local ambulance services and NEMT providers. These services offer varying levels of support, from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance during transit. The availability and cost of these services factor into the Hypertension Score, recognizing their importance for individuals with specific needs.

The availability of pharmacies is another crucial element of the Hypertension Score. Residents of Satsuma have access to local pharmacies and national chains, providing convenient access to prescription medications. The proximity of these pharmacies reduces the travel time required to obtain essential medications, positively impacting the score.

The overall Hypertension Score for Satsuma (36572) reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers some advantages, such as access to local pharmacies and relatively short drive times to primary care physicians, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for increased travel times to specialized care in Mobile present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Satsuma, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who are reliant on public transportation or have limited mobility should carefully consider the challenges posed by the limited public transit options. Individuals with complex medical needs or those requiring frequent specialized care may find that the drive times to Mobile and the associated traffic congestion pose a significant burden.

The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for residents and prospective newcomers alike. It provides a realistic assessment of healthcare access, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure. By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the care they require to manage their hypertension effectively. The score underscores the importance of considering transportation when planning for healthcare, especially in a community like Satsuma.