35172, Trafford, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 35172, Trafford, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.88 percent of residents in 35172 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Birmingham with a distance of 23.35 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Trafford, Alabama (ZIP Code 35172)

The crisp Alabama air, often tinged with the scent of pine, can be a siren song for those seeking respite from urban clamor. However, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of a new locale must be tempered with a pragmatic assessment of healthcare access. This Asthma Score write-up delves into the transportation landscape of Trafford, Alabama (ZIP code 35172), providing a detailed analysis of commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions to gauge the accessibility of essential healthcare services. This information is particularly pertinent for anyone considering moving to Trafford, where the quality of healthcare access directly impacts quality of life.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is timely access to medical care during exacerbations. Drive times to the nearest hospitals and urgent care facilities become crucial. From the heart of Trafford, the journey to St. Vincent's St. Clair in Pell City, a facility offering comprehensive emergency services and respiratory care, typically takes around 20-25 minutes. The most direct route involves navigating **Highway 11** south, a relatively well-maintained two-lane road. Traffic flow on Highway 11 is generally moderate, but rush hour congestion, particularly near Pell City, could extend travel times.

Another viable option is the Birmingham-based **UAB Hospital**, a nationally recognized center for respiratory care. The drive to UAB, a more specialized facility, clocks in at approximately 45-60 minutes. This route involves traversing **Highway 79** south, connecting to **Interstate 20** west. While the interstate offers higher speeds, the potential for traffic build-up, especially during peak commuting hours, must be factored into the equation.

For routine appointments, the proximity of family physicians and pulmonologists in the surrounding areas is equally important. Several clinics and medical offices are located within a 15-20 minute radius of Trafford. However, the reliance on personal vehicles remains a significant factor, particularly for those without readily available transportation.

Public transit options in Trafford are limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), operating as MAX, does not currently provide direct bus routes serving Trafford. The closest MAX routes are located in the Birmingham metropolitan area, requiring a drive to a designated stop and then a transfer. This significantly increases travel time and complexity, rendering public transit an impractical option for most residents, particularly during a respiratory emergency.

The absence of robust public transportation underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Birmingham area, including Trafford. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, provide another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like CareRide and First Medical Transportation offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services in the Birmingham region. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair accessibility, making them a valuable resource for asthma sufferers who may have difficulty driving or navigating public transit. However, it is crucial to verify insurance coverage and the availability of these services in advance, especially during periods of high demand.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of transportation options is a critical consideration. While ride-sharing services strive to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the consistency and availability of accessible vehicles can vary. Medical transport companies are generally required to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility limitations. The lack of public transit options with ADA features in Trafford presents a significant challenge for individuals with asthma who may also have other physical limitations.

Moving to Trafford requires a careful assessment of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services create potential challenges for individuals managing asthma. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Pell City offers a degree of reassurance, the longer commute to specialized care in Birmingham necessitates careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation solutions.

The Asthma Score for Trafford, Alabama (ZIP code 35172) reveals a landscape where healthcare access is primarily reliant on personal vehicles. While the drive times to hospitals and clinics are generally manageable, the absence of robust public transit and the variability of ride-sharing services necessitate proactive planning for medical appointments and emergencies. Individuals with asthma considering a move to Trafford should prioritize a thorough evaluation of their personal transportation needs, insurance coverage for medical transport, and the availability of reliable support networks to ensure timely and accessible healthcare. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining a high quality of life in this charming Alabama community.