35579, Oakman, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 35579, Oakman, Alabama is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.20 percent of residents in 35579 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 26.31 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Oakman, Alabama (ZIP Code 35579)

The crisp air of Oakman, Alabama, nestled in the rolling hills of Walker County, might seem idyllic. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare can be a significant challenge. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for ZIP code 35579, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Oakman.

The Asthma Score considers the ease of travel to essential healthcare services, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, emergency rooms, and pharmacies. It weighs factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its potential impact on asthma management within the community.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For residents of Oakman, the automobile reigns supreme as the primary mode of transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles significantly shapes healthcare access. The major artery connecting Oakman to surrounding areas is **Highway 78**, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on Highway 78 leads to Jasper, the county seat, offering a concentration of healthcare facilities.

The drive to Walker Baptist Medical Center in Jasper, a key healthcare provider, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive is generally straightforward, but potential delays can arise during peak hours or due to accidents. The condition of Highway 78 is generally good, but occasional potholes or construction can impact travel times.

South of Oakman, **Highway 124** provides another route, connecting to larger cities like Birmingham. However, this route is less direct and involves a longer drive time, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to the University of Alabama Hospital in Birmingham, a tertiary care center. This longer journey can be particularly challenging during an asthma exacerbation, highlighting the importance of prompt access to care.

Local roads, such as **County Road 27** and **County Road 41**, offer alternative routes within the Oakman area. These roads are generally less congested than Highway 78, but they may be winding and less well-maintained, potentially adding to travel time and difficulty. The accessibility of these roads is particularly important for residents living in more rural areas surrounding Oakman.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Oakman are extremely limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This lack of alternatives can exacerbate existing health disparities and limit access to timely medical care.

There is no established bus route that directly serves Oakman. The nearest public transit options are likely in Jasper, which might include a small, local transit system. However, these options are limited in their coverage and frequency, making them impractical for many residents needing to reach healthcare facilities. The lack of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on any existing public transit further restricts access for individuals with mobility limitations, which is particularly relevant for asthma sufferers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Oakman area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While these services offer a potential alternative to driving, their cost can be a barrier for some individuals. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas, can be unpredictable.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in providing healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Ambulance services are readily available in the event of a medical emergency. However, for non-emergency appointments, NEMT services are essential.

Several NEMT providers operate in the Oakman area, including companies that specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services typically offer transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and can provide assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, the availability of these services and the lead time required to schedule a ride can vary.

**Pharmacies: Essential for Asthma Management**

Access to pharmacies is critical for asthma management, as they provide essential medications, such as inhalers and nebulizers. Oakman has local pharmacies, providing convenient access to medications and healthcare advice. The presence of these pharmacies is a positive factor in the Asthma Score assessment.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic View**

The Asthma Score for Oakman, Alabama (ZIP code 35579) reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of Highway 78 provides relatively easy access to healthcare facilities in Jasper, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges for individuals with asthma, particularly those who cannot drive or lack access to a car. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options offers potential solutions, but their cost and reliability should be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Oakman and managing asthma, careful consideration of transportation options is paramount. Assessing the availability of reliable transportation, the proximity to healthcare providers, and the cost of transportation services are all critical factors in determining the suitability of the community. The Asthma Score highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare landscape of Oakman.