36035, Goshen, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36035, Goshen, Alabama is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.29 percent of residents in 36035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crenshaw Community Hospital with a distance of 8.54 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Goshen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36035)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of Southern summers in Goshen, Alabama (ZIP code 36035). For those with asthma, this humidity, coupled with seasonal allergens and potential environmental triggers, presents a daily challenge. This analysis delves into the intricate web of transportation options available to residents of Goshen, specifically evaluating their impact on healthcare access, a critical factor for managing asthma effectively. This "Asthma Score" considers drive times, public transit viability, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for individuals considering moving to Goshen or seeking to improve their healthcare journey.

Goshen, a rural community nestled in Pike County, offers a unique blend of Southern charm and the realities of limited resources. The primary concern for individuals with asthma is timely and reliable access to medical care, including routine check-ups, emergency visits, and medication refills. The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with transportation limitations, can significantly impact asthma management and overall quality of life.

The cornerstone of transportation in Goshen is the automobile. The primary thoroughfare connecting Goshen to larger towns and healthcare providers is **U.S. Highway 29**. Traveling south on Highway 29, residents can reach Enterprise, Alabama, in approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and speed. Enterprise boasts several medical facilities, including hospitals and specialist clinics. Further south, Dothan, Alabama, a larger city with more extensive healthcare options, is accessible via Highway 29, requiring a drive time of around one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes.

Northward travel on Highway 29 leads to Troy, Alabama, the county seat of Pike County. Troy offers local medical clinics and a hospital, making it a closer and potentially more convenient option for residents. The drive to Troy typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes. However, the availability of specialized care in Troy may be limited compared to the larger cities of Enterprise and Dothan.

Secondary roads, such as **County Road 10** and **County Road 20**, provide access to various parts of Goshen and connect to Highway 29. These roads, while offering alternative routes, may be less well-maintained and could present challenges during inclement weather, further complicating transportation for individuals with asthma.

Public transportation options in Goshen are severely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town or providing regular routes to surrounding cities. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or prefer not to drive. The absence of public transportation underscores the critical reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges faced by those with limited mobility or financial resources.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the larger cities of Enterprise and Dothan. However, their availability in Goshen is sporadic and unreliable. The sparse population density and limited demand make it unlikely that ride-sharing services would be readily accessible for routine medical appointments or emergencies. This lack of dependable ride-sharing further exacerbates the transportation challenges for individuals with asthma.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline for some residents. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services typically require advance booking and may involve varying costs depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage. However, even with these services, individuals with asthma may face delays in receiving care, particularly during peak hours or in emergency situations.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of transportation options is also a critical consideration. While medical transport services are generally required to meet ADA standards, the lack of accessible public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance.

When considering moving to Goshen, individuals with asthma must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare planning. This includes establishing a relationship with a local physician, securing reliable transportation arrangements for routine appointments, and having a plan in place for emergencies.

The "Asthma Score" for Goshen, based on these factors, is moderate to low. The primary advantage is the relatively short drive to Troy for basic medical care. However, the lack of public transportation, the limited ride-sharing availability, and the potential for delays in medical transport services significantly impact healthcare access.

The "Asthma Score" underscores the importance of careful consideration for individuals with asthma considering relocating to Goshen. Prospective residents should thoroughly research healthcare providers in the area, assess their transportation needs, and develop a comprehensive plan to ensure consistent and timely access to medical care. This plan should include backup transportation options, emergency contacts, and a clear understanding of the local healthcare system's capabilities.

For those already residing in Goshen with asthma, advocating for improved healthcare access is crucial. This may involve supporting initiatives to expand public transportation options, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and raising awareness about the needs of individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. By actively engaging in community efforts, residents can contribute to a healthier and more accessible environment for all.

Ultimately, the successful management of asthma in Goshen hinges on a combination of individual preparedness and community support. By understanding the transportation challenges and proactively addressing healthcare access concerns, residents can navigate the complexities of the local environment and maintain a high quality of life. The journey to healthcare in Goshen requires careful planning, adaptability, and a commitment to prioritizing respiratory health.