35987, Steele, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 35987, Steele, Alabama is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.65 percent of residents in 35987 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Marshall Medical Centers with a distance of 21.24 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Steele, Alabama (ZIP Code 35987)

The crisp mountain air of Steele, Alabama, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, offers a certain tranquility. However, for individuals managing asthma, the beauty of the landscape must be balanced with the practicalities of accessing healthcare. This Asthma Score write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 35987, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. This is particularly crucial when considering moving to Steele, where understanding healthcare access is paramount.

Our evaluation centers on the critical factors influencing healthcare access: drive times, public transportation options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. These elements significantly impact the quality of life for asthmatics, determining how quickly and reliably they can obtain necessary medical attention. A high Asthma Score indicates readily available and accessible transportation options, while a lower score highlights potential challenges.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Steele is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town itself is relatively small, and the nearest significant medical facilities are located in neighboring cities. The most direct route to Gadsden, the county seat and home to Gadsden Regional Medical Center, is via **Highway 77**. The drive typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a relatively manageable commute, but it assumes the availability of a personal vehicle and a driver.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **Highway 411** to reach Gadsden. This route, while slightly longer, might offer an alternative in the event of traffic congestion on Highway 77. The journey time via Highway 411 could extend to 35-45 minutes. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can also impact drive times, potentially exacerbating challenges for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Beyond Gadsden, more specialized medical care might necessitate travel to Birmingham, approximately 60 to 75 miles away. This journey primarily involves **Interstate 59**, a major thoroughfare. The drive time to Birmingham could range from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city. This longer distance emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for increased stress during an asthma flare-up.

Public transportation options in Steele are limited. The Etowah County Transit System (ECTS) provides bus services, but their routes and schedules are not extensive. It is crucial to research the ECTS routes, which may require a transfer in Gadsden to reach healthcare facilities. While ECTS strives to offer ADA-compliant services, the limited frequency of routes and the potential for lengthy travel times can present significant challenges for individuals with asthma, particularly during emergencies. Detailed information on ECTS routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features is essential for anyone considering moving to Steele.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Gadsden and potentially in Steele, though their availability might be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a crucial consideration, particularly for individuals experiencing sudden asthma attacks. The waiting time for a ride and the potential for surge pricing during emergencies could pose significant hurdles to timely healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available in the area. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability might depend on insurance coverage and the severity of the medical need. Researching the specific medical transport providers serving Steele and understanding their service areas, pricing structures, and insurance acceptance policies is a vital step in planning for healthcare needs.

The Asthma Score for transportation to healthcare in ZIP Code 35987 is moderately impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options. While the drive to Gadsden is relatively short, the longer distances to Birmingham and the scarcity of alternative transportation modes create potential challenges.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Steele, proactive planning is essential. This includes:

* **Researching healthcare providers:** Identifying local physicians, pulmonologists, and emergency care facilities.
* **Evaluating transportation options:** Assessing the reliability of personal vehicles, understanding ECTS routes and schedules, and exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Developing an emergency plan:** Establishing a clear plan for accessing medical care during an asthma exacerbation, including identifying emergency contacts, arranging transportation, and ensuring access to necessary medications.
* **Considering insurance coverage:** Confirming that health insurance covers medical transport and emergency services.

The Asthma Score for Steele is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the town's natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere are appealing, the accessibility of healthcare must be carefully considered. The absence of readily available public transit, coupled with the dependence on personal vehicles, presents potential obstacles. However, with careful planning and proactive measures, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the transportation landscape and ensure access to the healthcare they need. Understanding these factors is critical for anyone contemplating a move to Steele, ensuring a smooth transition and the ability to manage their health effectively. The ability to secure reliable transportation is directly linked to the ability to maintain health and well-being.