35085, Jemison, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 35085, Jemison, Alabama is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.68 percent of residents in 35085 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Chilton with a distance of 9.21 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jemison, Alabama (ZIP Code 35085)

Moving to Jemison, Alabama, a town nestled in the heart of Chilton County, presents a unique set of considerations, especially for individuals managing asthma. This write-up, tailored to the needs of those with respiratory conditions, explores the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access within ZIP Code 35085. We'll delve into the practicalities of commuting to medical appointments, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, ultimately providing an "Asthma Score" assessment of the area's transportation infrastructure.

The foundation of healthcare access in Jemison hinges on its proximity to larger medical centers, primarily located in nearby cities like Clanton and Birmingham. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Highway 31 and County Road 42. Highway 31, a major north-south thoroughfare, connects Jemison to Clanton, the county seat, and further north to Birmingham. County Road 42 offers an alternative route, albeit with potentially slower travel times depending on traffic.

Driving to Clanton, home to Chilton Medical Center, is the most immediate option. The drive, typically along Highway 31, is generally a swift 10-15 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This quick commute is a significant advantage, allowing for timely access to urgent care and routine appointments. However, the journey to Birmingham, a city offering a wider array of specialized medical services, requires a more considerable time commitment.

The drive to Birmingham, approximately 50-60 miles north, typically takes around an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, primarily via I-65. This interstate, while efficient, can be susceptible to traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours and in the event of accidents. This extended travel time, coupled with potential delays, can pose a challenge for individuals with asthma, especially during exacerbations. The air quality along the I-65 corridor is also a factor to consider, as urban areas often experience higher levels of pollutants.

Public transportation options in Jemison are limited. Chilton County does not have a county-wide public transportation system. The absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. This reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods underscores the need for careful planning and consideration for individuals with asthma.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Jemison, but their reliability and availability can vary. While these services offer a potential solution for transportation to medical appointments, their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, particularly for frequent trips to Birmingham, potentially adding a financial burden to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are available in the region. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and can be a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs should be thoroughly investigated.

Considering the factors above, the "Asthma Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Jemison, Alabama (ZIP Code 35085) is moderate. The quick access to healthcare in Clanton via Highway 31 offers a significant advantage. However, the longer commute to Birmingham, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays on I-65 further complicate healthcare access.

**Asthma Score Breakdown:**

* **Proximity to Local Healthcare (Clanton):** Excellent (10-15 minute drive)
* **Access to Specialized Care (Birmingham):** Moderate (1-1.25 hour drive, potential for traffic delays)
* **Public Transportation:** Poor (Limited to no options)
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Moderate (Variable availability, potential cost considerations)
* **Medical Transportation Services:** Moderate (Availability and cost should be researched)

**Recommendations for Individuals with Asthma Considering Moving to Jemison:**

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When selecting a residence, prioritize locations with easy access to Highway 31 for quick commutes to Clanton.
* **Plan for Birmingham Trips:** Factor in extra travel time for appointments in Birmingham, accounting for potential traffic delays on I-65.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers in the area.
* **Maintain a Reliable Vehicle:** Given the limited public transit options, a reliable personal vehicle is essential for healthcare access.
* **Consider Air Quality:** Monitor local air quality reports and take necessary precautions during periods of poor air quality, especially when traveling to Birmingham.
* **Establish a Healthcare Network:** Build relationships with local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and specialists, to ensure timely access to care.

In conclusion, while Jemison offers the advantage of close proximity to healthcare in Clanton, individuals with asthma must carefully consider the transportation challenges associated with accessing specialized medical services in Birmingham. A proactive approach, including careful planning, exploration of alternative transportation options, and attention to air quality, is crucial for ensuring optimal healthcare access and managing asthma effectively in this charming Alabama town. The move to Jemison can be a successful one, but it requires a thoughtful approach to transportation and healthcare access.