35091, Kimberly, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 35091, Kimberly, Alabama is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.20 percent of residents in 35091 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cullman Regional Medical Center with a distance of 28.11 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kimberly, Alabama (ZIP Code 35091)

Moving to a new area, especially with a health condition like asthma, demands careful consideration of healthcare access. This write-up, the "Asthma Score," assesses the ease of commuting to healthcare facilities in and around Kimberly, Alabama (ZIP Code 35091), focusing on transportation options and their potential impact on individuals managing asthma. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for prospective residents.

Kimberly, a charming town nestled in Jefferson County, offers a relatively quiet lifestyle. However, its location requires residents to navigate a network of roads and transportation options to reach vital healthcare services. The Asthma Score considers the challenges and opportunities presented by these factors, crucial for those seeking to relocate or simply understand the area's healthcare accessibility.

**Driving Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Kimberly and the surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. Several major roads serve as lifelines to healthcare facilities. The most direct route to Birmingham, where many specialized healthcare providers are located, involves utilizing **Interstate 65 (I-65)**. Traveling south on I-65 offers the quickest access, typically taking around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, however, can significantly extend this commute, potentially adding 15-30 minutes.

Alternatively, **Highway 31** and **Highway 79** provide alternative routes. Highway 31, though often congested, offers a more direct path to certain medical centers in the northern suburbs. Highway 79, a more rural road, provides a scenic, though slower, journey, particularly useful for reaching hospitals in Trussville and surrounding areas. These routes, however, might expose individuals to higher levels of air pollutants, potentially triggering asthma symptoms.

For local healthcare needs, residents can access family practices and urgent care clinics located within Kimberly or nearby communities like Gardendale. These facilities are generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, minimizing exposure to traffic and pollutants. However, specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, often necessitates a trip to Birmingham.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in the area are limited, posing a significant challenge for those relying on alternatives to driving. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, operates a bus system. However, the routes serving Kimberly are sparse, with limited frequency and coverage.

The primary bus route serving the area is likely the **Route 41** or **Route 42**, which may provide service to the northern suburbs, potentially connecting to transfer points for access to downtown Birmingham. However, these routes often involve multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time. Furthermore, the bus schedules may not align with medical appointments, creating logistical difficulties.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. BJCTA buses are generally equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and extended travel times can still present challenges for individuals with asthma, especially during peak pollen seasons or when air quality is poor.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services are available in Kimberly, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services might be limited during peak hours or in the early morning or late evening.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a specialized alternative. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the Birmingham area, including **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Care Ambulance Service**. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive due to their medical condition.

However, medical transport services can be expensive, and prior arrangements are often required. Furthermore, the waiting times for pick-up and drop-off can vary, potentially adding to the stress of managing asthma.

**Healthcare Access: A Balancing Act**

Healthcare access in Kimberly presents a mixed bag. While local clinics offer convenient access to primary care, specialized care often necessitates a commute to Birmingham. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options can present challenges for individuals with asthma.

The Asthma Score for Kimberly, therefore, reflects a need for careful planning. Prospective residents with asthma should consider the following factors:

* **Proximity to specialized care:** Assess the distance and travel time to pulmonologists, allergists, and other relevant specialists.
* **Transportation options:** Evaluate the feasibility of driving, using ride-sharing services, or relying on medical transport.
* **Air quality:** Monitor air quality reports and consider the potential impact of traffic and pollutants on asthma symptoms.
* **Emergency preparedness:** Establish a plan for accessing emergency medical care in case of an asthma attack.

Moving to Kimberly can be a positive experience, but for individuals with asthma, careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access is essential. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, residents can navigate the challenges and ensure they receive the necessary care.