36749, Jones, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36749, Jones, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.00 percent of residents in 36749 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vaughan Regional Medical Center Parkway Campus with a distance of 12.83 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 36749

Jones, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Dallas County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and healthcare challenges. For residents of ZIP Code 36749, which encompasses Jones and its surrounding areas, accessing timely and effective medical care, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension, hinges significantly on the availability and efficiency of transportation. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" analysis, examines the transportation landscape influencing healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension in this specific geographic area.

The "Hypertension Score" considers various factors, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This holistic approach aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing residents seeking to manage their hypertension effectively. It considers the potential impact on those moving to Jones, seeking to establish a new life in the area.

The primary arteries for vehicular movement within and around 36749 are Alabama State Route 14 (AL-14) and County Road 21. AL-14, a two-lane highway, serves as the main east-west thoroughfare, connecting Jones to Selma, the county seat, and beyond. County Road 21 provides a north-south route, offering access to smaller communities and connecting with other regional roads. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by traffic patterns, road conditions, and the distance to medical providers.

Driving to Selma, approximately 15 to 20 miles east of Jones, is often the first step in accessing healthcare. The journey along AL-14 typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the driver's speed. The Selma Baptist Medical Center, the primary hospital in the area, is a crucial destination for emergency care and specialized services. Other medical facilities, including physician offices and clinics, are also concentrated in Selma.

For residents seeking care outside of Selma, such as in Montgomery, the state capital, the drive becomes considerably longer. This journey, roughly 60 miles east, necessitates utilizing AL-14 to reach US-80 East, a major highway. Travel time to Montgomery can range from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, factoring in potential traffic congestion. This extended travel time can pose a significant burden, particularly for individuals with hypertension who require regular check-ups and medication refills.

Public transportation options in 36749 are limited. The Selma Transit System offers bus services within the city of Selma. However, these services typically do not extend to Jones or the surrounding rural areas. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to physical limitations.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Selma and, to a lesser extent, in the surrounding areas. However, their availability and affordability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services play a vital role in bridging the healthcare access gap for individuals with mobility challenges. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the region. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including doctor's visits, dialysis treatments, and physical therapy sessions. However, availability and scheduling can be limited, and prior arrangements are often required.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of available transportation options. While the Selma Transit System is required to provide ADA-compliant services, the lack of service coverage in Jones limits its impact. Ride-sharing services are generally equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, but availability can be variable. Medical transportation services are typically designed to meet the needs of individuals with mobility limitations.

The challenges of healthcare access are compounded by the rural nature of the area. The distance to healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for transportation costs can all contribute to delayed or missed medical appointments. This can negatively impact the management of hypertension, potentially leading to complications and poorer health outcomes.

The affordability of transportation is another critical factor. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation can create a significant financial burden for individuals managing hypertension, particularly those with limited incomes. This financial strain can further exacerbate healthcare access challenges.

For those moving to Jones, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring continuity of care. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the availability and accessibility of healthcare services in the area. This includes researching the proximity of medical providers, the availability of public transit or ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of transportation.

The "Hypertension Score" also acknowledges the importance of community resources and support networks. Local organizations, such as senior centers and community health clinics, can provide valuable assistance with transportation arrangements and healthcare navigation. These resources can play a crucial role in helping individuals manage their hypertension effectively.

The availability of telehealth services is another factor to consider. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth access is dependent on reliable internet connectivity, which can be limited in some rural areas.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for 36749 reveals a complex interplay of factors influencing healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. While driving remains the primary mode of transportation, the limitations of public transit, the variability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation present significant challenges. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing availability, enhancing medical transportation services, and promoting telehealth adoption. For those moving to Jones, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for ensuring access to timely and effective healthcare, thus contributing to better health outcomes for residents managing hypertension.