35447, Carrollton, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 35447, Carrollton, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.32 percent of residents in 35447 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 31.91 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carrollton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35447)

The air in Carrollton, Alabama, a town steeped in Southern charm, holds a certain stillness, a languid quality that can be both comforting and, for those with asthma, a potential challenge. This write-up, designed to assess the ease of access to healthcare for asthma sufferers, focuses on the complexities of **transportation** within and around ZIP Code 35447. We’ll consider drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, painting a picture of **healthcare access** for individuals considering **moving to Carrollton**.

The very nature of asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, demands swift and reliable access to medical care. Sudden exacerbations can transform a mild inconvenience into a life-threatening emergency. Thus, the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options become paramount in determining the quality of life for asthmatics in any given location.

Carrollton, nestled in Pickens County, is a rural community. The primary mode of **transportation** is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. For those with asthma, this reliance on cars necessitates careful consideration of factors like traffic congestion, the availability of parking near medical facilities, and the overall condition of the roads.

The journey to healthcare begins with the roads themselves. Within Carrollton, the primary arteries are US Highway 80, a vital east-west thoroughfare, and Alabama State Route 17, which runs north-south. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience periods of heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting hours and school dismissal times. Delays, even seemingly minor ones, can be critical for someone experiencing an asthma attack.

Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities, including the Pickens County Medical Center in Carrollton and the larger DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, are crucial. A drive to the Pickens County Medical Center from most points within 35447 should be relatively short, typically under 10 minutes. This proximity is a significant advantage for residents requiring immediate care.

However, for specialized treatment or advanced care, the DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa is often the destination. The drive, primarily via US-82 East, can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This longer travel time introduces potential challenges, especially during rush hour or in the event of an asthma emergency. The route is generally straightforward, but the distance underscores the importance of planning and preparedness.

Public **transportation** options in Carrollton are limited. The Pickens County Transit Authority operates a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While this service offers a lifeline for some, its availability and scheduling constraints may not always meet the urgent needs of an asthma sufferer. Information regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility should be obtained directly from the Pickens County Transit Authority.

The lack of robust public **transportation** highlights the importance of alternative options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Tuscaloosa, but their presence in Carrollton is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. The reliability of these services should be thoroughly investigated before **moving to Carrollton**.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) companies, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide transportation for individuals with medical needs who cannot drive themselves. Researching the availability of NEMT providers in the area, including their service areas and the types of medical conditions they accommodate, is essential.

When evaluating **healthcare access**, the availability of pharmacies and urgent care facilities within Carrollton also plays a role. The presence of local pharmacies, offering prescription refills and over-the-counter medications, is a significant convenience. Urgent care clinics, providing immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions, can bridge the gap between primary care appointments and emergency room visits.

For individuals with asthma, the decision to relocate to a new area requires careful consideration of environmental factors. Carrollton's air quality, the presence of allergens like pollen and mold, and the availability of indoor air filtration systems should all be assessed. Proximity to parks and outdoor recreational areas, while potentially beneficial, also necessitates awareness of potential triggers.

The cost of **transportation** is another factor to consider. The expenses associated with owning and maintaining a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, can be significant. The cost of ride-sharing services or medical **transportation** can also add to the financial burden.

In summary, the **Asthma Score** for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 35447 reveals a mixed bag. The proximity of the Pickens County Medical Center offers a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential challenges of accessing specialized care in Tuscaloosa necessitate careful planning and preparedness for asthma sufferers. Individuals considering **moving to Carrollton** should thoroughly research the availability of ride-sharing services, medical **transportation**, and local healthcare providers. Proactive planning, including establishing a relationship with a local physician and developing an asthma action plan, is crucial for ensuring optimal **healthcare access** and a comfortable quality of life. The success of navigating the **transportation** landscape will ultimately shape the experience of living with asthma in this charming Southern town.