36574, Seminole, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36574, Seminole, Alabama is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.62 percent of residents in 36574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Baldwin Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.22 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36574 (Seminole, Alabama)**

Relocating to a new community involves numerous considerations, and for individuals managing hypertension, access to timely and reliable healthcare becomes paramount. This analysis provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP Code 36574 (Seminole, Alabama), focusing on the critical element of transportation to healthcare facilities. This score considers various transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access within this specific geographical area.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is the ability to reach medical appointments promptly and efficiently. Delays in accessing care can have serious consequences, potentially leading to uncontrolled blood pressure and increased risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, the "Hypertension Score" prioritizes factors that minimize travel time and ensure dependable access to healthcare providers.

**Personal Vehicle Transportation:**

The most common mode of transportation in Seminole, Alabama, is the personal vehicle. The accessibility of healthcare facilities via car is a significant factor in the overall "Hypertension Score." Residents of 36574 can access healthcare through a network of highways and local roads.

The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities from Seminole include:

* **Highway 98:** This major thoroughfare provides direct access to Foley, Alabama, a city with several medical facilities, including South Baldwin Regional Medical Center. Drive times to Foley from Seminole are generally short, averaging around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
* **County Road 95:** This road provides a connection to Highway 59, which leads to the coastal communities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, offering additional healthcare options. Travel times to these locations are generally longer, ranging from 30-45 minutes, depending on the specific destination.
* **Local Roads:** A network of local roads, such as County Road 49 and County Road 65, provides access to smaller medical clinics and doctor's offices within the surrounding areas. These routes can offer shorter travel times for routine appointments but may be less direct for specialized care.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the drive times to various healthcare facilities, factoring in potential traffic delays and the availability of parking. Shorter drive times and ample parking contribute positively to the score, enhancing the overall accessibility for individuals with hypertension.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in the Seminole area are limited. This lack of options presents a challenge for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive.

The Baldwin County Area Transportation System (BCATS) provides some public transit services. BCATS operates a demand-response system, meaning that rides must be scheduled in advance. The availability of routes and the frequency of service can vary depending on the day and time.

BCATS offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited service area and the need for advance scheduling can create difficulties for individuals requiring immediate or unscheduled medical attention. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the limitations of public transportation in this area, recognizing that it may not be a reliable option for all residents.

**Ride-Sharing Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Seminole area. These services can provide a convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public transportation, especially for individuals who do not drive or need transportation at irregular hours.

The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on demand and the time of day. The "Hypertension Score" considers the potential benefits of ride-sharing, such as the ability to schedule rides in advance and the flexibility to access healthcare facilities at various times. However, the score also acknowledges the potential costs and the reliance on the availability of drivers.

**Medical Transportation:**

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from healthcare appointments. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility issues or other medical conditions.

Several medical transportation providers serve the Seminole area. These services can be a valuable option for individuals with hypertension who require assistance with transportation or have mobility limitations. The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability and accessibility of medical transportation services, recognizing their importance in ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score":**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 36574 is based on a comprehensive assessment of the transportation options available to residents. The score is designed to reflect the ease with which individuals with hypertension can access healthcare facilities, considering factors such as drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options.

The score is calculated by assigning points to each transportation option based on its reliability, efficiency, and accessibility. The points are then weighted to reflect the relative importance of each factor. For example, drive times to healthcare facilities are given a higher weight than the availability of public transportation, reflecting the reliance on personal vehicles in this area.

The overall "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable tool for individuals considering moving to Seminole, Alabama, and for current residents seeking to understand their access to healthcare. A higher score indicates better access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing medical services.

**Moving to Seminole and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Seminole, Alabama, the "Hypertension Score" is an essential factor to consider. The score provides insights into the transportation options available for accessing healthcare, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their relocation.

Individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate the transportation options available in Seminole, considering their individual needs and preferences. Those who rely on public transportation or ride-sharing services should assess the availability and reliability of these services. Those who drive should consider the drive times to healthcare facilities and the availability of parking.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static measure. It can change over time as transportation options evolve and healthcare facilities expand or contract. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about changes in the local transportation landscape and healthcare infrastructure.

**Conclusion:**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 36574 provides a valuable assessment of healthcare access, focusing on the critical element of transportation. By considering the various transportation options available, this analysis offers a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals with hypertension in this community. The score serves as a valuable tool for both prospective and current residents, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall well-being. As the community grows, and transportation and healthcare options change, so too will the score, highlighting the dynamic nature of healthcare access in Seminole, Alabama.