35554, Eldridge, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 35554, Eldridge, Alabama is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.67 percent of residents in 35554 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Medical Center with a distance of 10.17 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Eldridge, Alabama (ZIP Code 35554)

Eldridge, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Winston County, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing asthma. Beyond the charm of a close-knit community, prospective residents and current inhabitants alike must navigate the realities of **healthcare access** in this rural setting. This write-up, the “Asthma Score,” analyzes the **transportation** options available for reaching healthcare facilities, a critical factor in managing asthma effectively. This is especially pertinent for those **moving to Eldridge**, where understanding the accessibility of medical care is paramount.

The cornerstone of asthma management is timely access to medical professionals. This involves regular check-ups, urgent care visits during exacerbations, and convenient pharmacy access. The **transportation** infrastructure in Eldridge significantly influences these crucial aspects of healthcare.

The primary artery for vehicular travel is **Highway 195**, a vital link connecting Eldridge to surrounding towns and cities. Driving times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination. The closest options include the Family Medical Clinic in Winfield, approximately a 10-15 minute drive along Highway 195. For more specialized care, such as pulmonology or allergy specialists, residents often journey to Jasper, a 30-45 minute drive via Highway 195 and Highway 78. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can impact travel times. Secondary roads like **County Road 35** and **County Road 39** offer alternative routes, but they are often less maintained and may add to travel time.

Public **transportation** options in Eldridge are limited. Winston County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This absence presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The closest public transit options are in Jasper, offering limited routes. However, these routes may not directly serve Eldridge, and the travel time to reach them and then to healthcare facilities could be substantial.

The absence of robust public transit highlights the importance of exploring ride-sharing and medical transport services. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may operate in Eldridge, but their availability is not guaranteed and could be subject to surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather. Medical transport services, such as MedTrans or American Medical Response (AMR), provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transport, often with trained medical personnel, but they can be expensive and require prior arrangements.

For individuals with asthma, the reliability and accessibility of these **transportation** options are crucial. Asthma attacks can occur unexpectedly, necessitating immediate medical attention. Delays in reaching a healthcare facility can have severe consequences. Therefore, the availability of readily accessible and reliable **transportation** is a key component of the “Asthma Score.”

The availability of pharmacies within Eldridge and surrounding areas is another critical factor. The Winfield Pharmacy, located in Winfield, provides convenient access to medications and asthma-related supplies. However, the distance to pharmacies, particularly for those without personal vehicles, can pose a challenge.

The “Asthma Score” for Eldridge, therefore, reflects the interplay of several factors. The relatively short drive times to basic healthcare facilities like the Family Medical Clinic in Winfield offer a positive aspect. However, the limited public **transportation** options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services introduce challenges. The need for specialized care in Jasper and the associated travel times further complicate the picture.

The “Asthma Score” is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment. It considers the following:

* **Accessibility:** The ease with which individuals can reach healthcare facilities.
* **Reliability:** The consistency and dependability of **transportation** options.
* **Affordability:** The cost of accessing **transportation** services.
* **Availability:** The presence of readily available **transportation** options at all times.
* **Emergency Response:** The speed and efficiency of **transportation** in emergency situations.

For those **moving to Eldridge** with asthma, careful consideration of these factors is essential. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare providers, exploring the potential for ride-sharing services, and establishing relationships with medical transport providers are all crucial steps in ensuring adequate **healthcare access**.

Individuals managing asthma in Eldridge should also proactively plan for potential challenges. This includes having a backup plan for **transportation** in case of emergencies, such as designating a friend or family member who can provide transport. It also means having a sufficient supply of asthma medication and knowing the location of the nearest urgent care facility.

The “Asthma Score” for Eldridge emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the **transportation** landscape. While the community offers a sense of peace and tranquility, the realities of **healthcare access** must be carefully considered.

The "Asthma Score" write-up serves as a guide, not a definitive rating. Individual experiences will vary depending on personal circumstances, including the severity of asthma, access to support networks, and financial resources. However, by understanding the **transportation** challenges and exploring available options, individuals can make informed decisions and create a plan to manage their asthma effectively while residing in Eldridge. The success of asthma management in this area hinges on a proactive approach, recognizing the limitations of the **transportation** infrastructure, and embracing available resources.