36576, Silverhill, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36576, Silverhill, Alabama is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.38 percent of residents in 36576 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Thomas Hospital with a distance of 7.49 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Silverhill, Alabama (ZIP Code 36576)

The sun-drenched landscape of Silverhill, Alabama, beckons with its promise of a slower pace, a close-knit community, and the allure of Southern charm. But for those considering a move, particularly individuals managing hypertension, understanding the practicalities of accessing healthcare is paramount. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 36576, assessing the ease of **healthcare access** and providing a framework for evaluating a "Hypertension Score" – a crucial element for anyone contemplating **moving to Silverhill**.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent and timely access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency services. This necessitates a thorough examination of **transportation** options, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and alternative solutions like ride-sharing and medical transport services. This analysis will help paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for managing hypertension in this idyllic Alabama town.

Silverhill itself, nestled within Baldwin County, is a relatively small community. The town's central location provides a foundation for accessing healthcare, but the surrounding geography presents unique challenges. The primary artery for vehicular movement is Alabama Highway 104, a vital east-west corridor. Traveling east on Highway 104 leads to Foley, a regional hub boasting a hospital, numerous clinics, and specialist practices. The drive to Foley, depending on the specific location within Silverhill, typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes.

Heading west on Highway 104, the route connects to Robertsdale, another town offering healthcare facilities. The drive to Robertsdale is generally shorter, taking around 10 to 15 minutes. These drive times, while generally manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours or in the event of an accident. Consider the potential impact of delays when planning appointments or seeking urgent care.

Beyond Highway 104, other roads play a crucial role in accessing healthcare. County Road 68, running north-south, provides an alternative route to Foley and Robertsdale, albeit with a slightly longer travel time. The condition of these secondary roads, including their maintenance and potential for flooding during inclement weather, must be factored into the overall transportation assessment.

Unfortunately, public transportation options in Silverhill are extremely limited. Baldwin County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There are no readily available bus routes within the town itself, and the availability of public transportation to nearby cities like Foley or Robertsdale is virtually non-existent. This absence of public transit significantly restricts **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or are unable to utilize other modes of transportation. This is a major consideration for anyone **moving to Silverhill**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. While these services provide a potential solution for accessing healthcare, their availability is not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or long-distance travel.

Medical transport services offer a specialized option for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Several companies operate in Baldwin County, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to doctor's appointments, dialysis centers, and other healthcare facilities. These services typically require advance booking and can be costly, but they provide a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize other **transportation** options. Researching and pre-planning for these services is essential for individuals with hypertension.

The closest major hospital, South Baldwin Regional Medical Center in Foley, offers a wide range of services, including cardiology, internal medicine, and emergency care. Its proximity to Silverhill, along with the availability of specialist physicians, makes it a crucial resource for managing hypertension. However, the drive time, potential for traffic delays, and the need for pre-arranged **transportation** all contribute to the overall "Hypertension Score."

Beyond Foley, the larger cities of Mobile and Pensacola offer more extensive healthcare options, including specialized medical centers and university hospitals. However, the drive times to these locations are significantly longer, typically exceeding an hour. This extended travel time can pose a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, especially in the event of a medical emergency.

To create a personalized "Hypertension Score," individuals should consider the following factors: their ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, the accessibility of medical transport, and the potential for traffic delays. They should also factor in their individual healthcare needs, including the frequency of appointments, the need for specialized care, and their ability to manage medication refills.

The "Hypertension Score" should be viewed as a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on individual circumstances and evolving healthcare needs. It is crucial to regularly reassess the score, particularly if there are changes in health status, **transportation** options, or the availability of healthcare services.

When considering **moving to Silverhill**, individuals with hypertension should proactively research healthcare providers in the area, familiarize themselves with the **transportation** options, and develop a comprehensive plan for accessing medical care. This plan should include backup options, such as alternative routes to healthcare facilities, emergency contact information, and pre-arranged **transportation** services.

The beauty of Silverhill, the welcoming community, and the slower pace of life are undeniably attractive. However, for those managing hypertension, a thorough understanding of the **healthcare access** landscape is essential. By carefully evaluating the **transportation** options and developing a personalized "Hypertension Score," individuals can make an informed decision about whether Silverhill is the right place to call home, ensuring their health and well-being are prioritized.