35750, Hazel Green, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 35750, Hazel Green, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.02 percent of residents in 35750 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Huntsville Hospital with a distance of 15.08 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hazel Green (ZIP Code 35750)

Relocating to a new area, especially when managing a chronic condition like asthma, necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. For prospective residents considering a move to Hazel Green, Alabama (ZIP Code 35750), this assessment provides a comprehensive “Asthma Score” evaluating the ease of commuting to medical facilities. This score considers various transportation options, including driving times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility within the area.

Hazel Green, a charming community nestled in Madison County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. Its location, however, presents unique challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals with asthma. The primary concern revolves around transportation, which directly impacts the speed and ease with which one can reach medical appointments and emergency care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation in Hazel Green. The primary artery for accessing healthcare in Huntsville, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities, is **Highway 231**. The drive south on Highway 231 will take you into Huntsville. Depending on traffic, this drive can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes to reach the Huntsville Hospital system.

Alternatively, **Highway 53** provides another route, though it may involve navigating some winding roads, and potentially a slightly longer commute. These roads, while offering scenic drives, can become congested during peak hours, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms triggered by stress or air pollution from idling vehicles.

Within Hazel Green itself, local roads such as **Hazel Green Road** and **Old Railroad Bed Road** facilitate travel to local pharmacies and urgent care facilities. However, these roads may lack sidewalks or dedicated bike lanes, making them less suitable for pedestrians or cyclists, especially during periods of poor air quality.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Hazel Green are limited. The Huntsville-Madison County Transit Authority (HMC) operates a bus system, but routes serving Hazel Green are infrequent and primarily focus on connecting the community to downtown Huntsville. This can be a significant barrier for individuals with asthma who require frequent medical appointments.

Specific bus routes, such as the **Route 10** (though this route might not be available in Hazel Green), might offer some service, but the schedules are often not aligned with the needs of patients requiring regular healthcare visits. Furthermore, the accessibility of these buses needs to be considered. While the HMC system adheres to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, ensuring wheelchair accessibility, the limited frequency and potential for long wait times can still pose challenges for individuals with asthma, particularly during periods of exacerbation.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hazel Green, providing an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, making it a potentially expensive option for frequent medical appointments.

For individuals with more severe asthma or limited mobility, medical transport services offer a specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** or **Care Ambulance** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services are typically covered by insurance, but pre-booking is usually required, and wait times can vary. The availability of these services in Hazel Green should be confirmed before moving to the area.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

While Hazel Green itself has limited medical facilities, residents have access to a range of healthcare providers in Huntsville. The Huntsville Hospital system, including **Huntsville Hospital** and **Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children**, offers comprehensive services, including pulmonology and allergy specialists.

Other medical facilities in Huntsville, such as **Crestwood Medical Center**, also provide specialized care. The proximity to these facilities is a significant advantage for residents of Hazel Green. However, the reliance on transportation to access these services remains a critical factor.

**Asthma Score Considerations**

The "Asthma Score" for Hazel Green (35750) would need to reflect the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The primary reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on Highway 231.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** Infrequent bus routes and potential for long wait times.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Fluctuating availability and potential cost.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability and pre-booking requirements.
* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** The need to travel to Huntsville for specialized care.
* **Air Quality:** The need to consider air quality and its impact on asthma symptoms.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

Individuals with asthma considering a move to Hazel Green should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly. Before making a decision, it is recommended to:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Determine the frequency of medical appointments and the need for emergency care.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Providers:** Evaluate the drive times to medical facilities in Huntsville.
* **Monitor Air Quality:** Invest in an air quality monitor and be prepared to adjust outdoor activities based on air quality alerts.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Establish an emergency plan that includes transportation options and a list of emergency contacts.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Hazel Green offers a desirable quality of life, but individuals with asthma must carefully weigh the benefits against the challenges of healthcare access. While the community's proximity to Huntsville provides access to excellent medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration. By proactively assessing transportation options and planning for potential challenges, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision about moving to Hazel Green and ensure they can access the healthcare they need. The "Asthma Score" for this area reflects a need for careful planning and a proactive approach to managing asthma in this charming, but transportation-dependent, community.