36792, Randolph, Alabama Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 36792, Randolph, Alabama is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.65 percent of residents in 36792 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Chilton with a distance of 15.57 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36792**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This is especially true for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension, where timely and consistent medical attention is crucial. This analysis focuses on transportation infrastructure within ZIP code 36792, specifically examining the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking healthcare, with a particular focus on those managing hypertension. The goal is to create a "Hypertension Score," a metric reflecting the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering various transportation options. This information is particularly pertinent for those considering moving to Randolph, Alabama, within this ZIP code.

ZIP code 36792, encompassing the town of Randolph and surrounding areas, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary mode of travel is by personal vehicle, given the rural nature of the region. The nearest significant healthcare providers are located in larger towns, necessitating travel on specific roads. The primary artery is Alabama State Route 22, which connects Randolph to the larger towns of Selma and Prattville. Residents frequently use County Road 15 and County Road 4 to navigate local areas.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. The nearest hospital, Vaughan Regional Medical Center in Selma, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via Alabama State Route 22. This drive time can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. Other healthcare options, such as specialized clinics or physician offices, may require longer travel times, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on their location.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 36792 are limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system, which poses a significant challenge for residents without personal vehicles. This lack of options disproportionately affects individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. The absence of reliable public transportation directly impacts the Hypertension Score, as it restricts access to regular medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes. The availability of medical transport services is also a factor. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) may operate in the area, but their services may require advance booking and could be subject to specific eligibility criteria.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance of any available transportation options is a critical consideration. For individuals with disabilities, accessible transportation is essential for healthcare access. The lack of accessible public transit, coupled with the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, can create significant barriers for individuals with mobility impairments, impacting their ability to manage their hypertension effectively.

The Hypertension Score is also influenced by the distance to pharmacies. Access to medication is a cornerstone of hypertension management. The availability of pharmacies within reasonable driving distance is crucial. If residents must travel long distances to fill prescriptions, it can create additional challenges, particularly for those with limited mobility or transportation options.

The impact of transportation challenges on healthcare access is particularly relevant for individuals managing hypertension. Regular medical appointments, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are essential for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications. Transportation barriers can lead to missed appointments, medication non-adherence, and a decline in overall health outcomes.

The Hypertension Score considers the availability of healthcare providers, drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of pharmacies. It also accounts for the availability of medical transport services and the ADA compliance of available transportation options. This score provides a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities for residents of ZIP code 36792 seeking healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Randolph, Alabama, within ZIP code 36792, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The Hypertension Score can help prospective residents assess the ease with which they can access healthcare services, considering their individual needs and circumstances. It is vital to consider the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services.

The development of the Hypertension Score is an ongoing process. It requires continuous monitoring of transportation infrastructure, healthcare provider availability, and evolving transportation options. The goal is to provide a dynamic and informative tool that helps residents of ZIP code 36792 make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being. The ultimate aim is to improve healthcare access for all residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.