36738, Faunsdale, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36738, Faunsdale, Alabama is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.25 percent of residents in 36738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Whitfield Regional Hospital with a distance of 13.90 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36738**

Faunsdale, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Marengo County, presents a unique challenge when considering healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. Assessing the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities is crucial, especially for those requiring regular check-ups and medication refills. This write-up, framed as a "Hypertension Score" analysis, examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 36738, offering insights into the practicalities of seeking care. It is designed to inform both current residents and those contemplating moving to Faunsdale, highlighting the realities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access.

The core of the Hypertension Score hinges on the time and effort required to reach essential medical services. This involves evaluating various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture, acknowledging the limitations and opportunities within this rural setting.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

For residents of Faunsdale, the most common mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The primary roadways serving the area are Alabama State Route 14 (AL-14) and Alabama State Route 28 (AL-28). AL-14 provides a crucial east-west link, while AL-28 runs north-south. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in Demopolis and Selma, both requiring significant travel times.

Driving to Whitfield Regional Hospital in Demopolis, approximately 20 miles west via AL-14, typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Selma, roughly 35 miles east via AL-14 and AL-28, presents a longer commute, often requiring 45 minutes to an hour. These drive times are significant, especially for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis or requiring frequent monitoring.

The quality of the roadways themselves can influence travel times. AL-14 and AL-28 are generally well-maintained, but periodic repairs and weather events can cause delays. The presence of rural roads, such as County Road 15 and County Road 21, adds another layer of complexity. While these routes might offer shortcuts, their conditions can vary, potentially increasing travel time and vehicle wear and tear.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in 36738 are limited. Marengo County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. The absence of regular public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to health conditions or age. This lack of public transportation directly impacts healthcare access, especially for those with limited mobility or financial constraints.

The availability of ADA-accessible transportation is also a crucial consideration. Without a structured public transit system, individuals with disabilities face additional challenges in accessing healthcare. The lack of accessible options further exacerbates the difficulties faced by those managing hypertension and other chronic conditions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Faunsdale or the surrounding areas. This lack of ride-sharing options further complicates transportation challenges. Residents needing a ride to a doctor’s appointment must rely on friends, family, or specialized medical transport services.

Medical transport services offer a lifeline for individuals unable to drive themselves. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically require advance booking and may involve varying costs depending on the distance and level of care required. Companies like MedTrans and First Transit are known to operate in the area.

The availability of medical transport services is a positive aspect, but they are not a perfect solution. Booking in advance can be difficult for those with unpredictable health needs. The costs associated with these services can also be a burden, particularly for those with limited incomes.

**Healthcare Access and Community Resources**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access is affected by the availability of medical facilities and the presence of community resources. The nearest primary care physicians and specialists are located in Demopolis and Selma. These facilities offer a range of services, including hypertension management, but the distance to these facilities can be a barrier.

Community resources, such as senior centers and local health departments, can play a vital role in supporting individuals with hypertension. These organizations may offer health education programs, medication assistance, and transportation assistance. The presence of these resources can help mitigate the challenges of transportation and improve healthcare access.

**Moving to Faunsdale: Considerations**

For those considering moving to Faunsdale, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to consider. Individuals managing hypertension should carefully evaluate their ability to access healthcare services. The lack of public transit and ride-sharing options necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or specialized transportation.

Prospective residents should assess their driving capabilities and the availability of family or friends to provide transportation assistance. They should also investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services. Understanding the limitations of transportation options is essential for making an informed decision about moving to Faunsdale.

**Hypertension Score Summary**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 36738 is negatively impacted by limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. While medical transport services offer a solution, their cost and booking requirements can be barriers.

The long drive times to healthcare facilities in Demopolis and Selma further exacerbate the situation. The lack of readily available transportation options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, potentially worsening health outcomes for individuals with hypertension.

Improving healthcare access in Faunsdale requires a multi-pronged approach. This could involve exploring partnerships to expand public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for medical transport. Enhancing community resources, such as health education programs and medication assistance, can also play a crucial role. Addressing the transportation challenges in 36738 is essential for ensuring that residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.