36766, Oak Hill, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36766, Oak Hill, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.22 percent of residents in 36766 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Paul Jones Hospital with a distance of 13.39 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 36766

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly when managing conditions like hypertension, necessitates seamless access to healthcare. This write-up, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 36766, delves into the intricacies of transportation and healthcare access, offering a 'Hypertension Score' assessment to aid in informed decision-making. Whether you are already a resident or contemplating moving to Oak Hill, understanding the landscape of transportation options is paramount.

The score considers the time and ease of travel to medical facilities, the availability of diverse transportation modes, and the specific needs of individuals managing hypertension. This analysis acknowledges the critical link between timely healthcare access and the effective management of this chronic condition.

**Roadways: The Arteries of Access**

The primary roadways in 36766, including US-80, County Road 21, and County Road 23, act as the primary arteries for transportation. US-80, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers the most direct route to Selma, the nearest city with significant healthcare infrastructure. County Road 21 and County Road 23 provide access to smaller towns and local clinics, vital for routine check-ups and medication refills.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and traffic conditions. A trip to a major hospital in Selma via US-80 can take approximately 20-30 minutes under ideal conditions. However, factors like rush hour traffic, which is not often a factor, or inclement weather can extend this time considerably. Travel to local clinics and pharmacies might take 10-15 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 36766 are limited. The availability of public transit is a critical component of the Hypertension Score. The City of Selma operates a public bus system, but routes and schedules are limited, primarily focusing on serving the city center. Service to and from Oak Hill and other areas within 36766 is infrequent, making public transit a less viable option for many residents, especially those with mobility limitations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. While the City of Selma's bus system is required to comply with ADA regulations, the availability of accessible routes and vehicles in 36766 is limited. Individuals with mobility challenges should verify the accessibility of specific routes and stops before relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in 36766 can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. Wait times can be longer, and prices may fluctuate based on demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services, which include ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to other transportation options.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

* **MedStar Ambulance:** Provides emergency and non-emergency medical transport services.
* **Care Ride:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Response Ambulance:** Provides emergency and non-emergency medical transport.

**Healthcare Access: The Destination**

The availability and proximity of healthcare facilities are central to the Hypertension Score. The primary healthcare hub for 36766 residents is Selma, offering a range of medical services.

**Healthcare Facilities:**

* **Baptist Health Medical Center South:** A full-service hospital in Selma, offering emergency care, specialized treatments, and a range of medical specialties.
* **Selma Medical Associates:** A multi-specialty clinic providing primary care, cardiology, and other services.
* **Various local clinics:** Offering primary care, urgent care, and specialized services.

The distance to these facilities, combined with the transportation options, significantly impacts the overall score. Residents who have limited access to transportation and live further from healthcare facilities face greater challenges in managing their hypertension.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for 36766 is calculated based on several factors:

* **Drive time to healthcare facilities:** Shorter drive times contribute to a higher score.
* **Availability of public transit:** A robust and accessible public transit system increases the score.
* **Reliability of ride-sharing services:** Consistent availability of ride-sharing services improves the score.
* **Accessibility of medical transportation:** The presence of reliable medical transport services enhances the score.
* **Proximity to pharmacies:** Easy access to pharmacies for medication refills is crucial.

**Moving to Oak Hill: Considerations for Hypertension Management**

For those considering moving to Oak Hill, the Hypertension Score is an important factor to consider. The score reflects the ease with which you can access healthcare services, which is crucial for managing your condition.

* **Assess your transportation needs:** Determine whether you have access to a vehicle, or if you will need to rely on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport.
* **Research healthcare facilities:** Identify the nearest hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
* **Evaluate transportation options:** Investigate the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation.
* **Consider the impact of location:** Factor in drive times to healthcare facilities when choosing a home.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Wellness**

The Hypertension Score provides a valuable framework for assessing healthcare access in 36766. While the area faces challenges related to transportation, understanding the available options and planning accordingly can help residents manage their hypertension effectively. By considering drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.