36263, Graham, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36263, Graham, Alabama is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.22 percent of residents in 36263 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tanner Medical Center-East Alabama with a distance of 12.78 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36263 (Graham, Alabama)**

The air in Graham, Alabama (ZIP Code 36263), whispers tales of rolling hills, verdant forests, and a close-knit community. However, for individuals managing asthma, the promise of fresh air hinges on the accessibility of healthcare. This "Asthma Score" write-up meticulously examines transportation options to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. Our goal is to paint a clear picture of healthcare access, a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Graham.

The foundation of healthcare access in Graham lies in the efficiency of its road network. Driving is often the primary mode of transportation. Residents benefit from the relatively uncluttered flow on **Highway 78**, the main artery connecting Graham to larger cities like Anniston and Birmingham. The drive to Northeast Alabama Regional Medical Center (RMC) in Anniston, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic.

Other important routes include **County Road 77**, which weaves through the heart of Graham, and **Highway 431**, offering connections to the south. These roads, while less heavily trafficked than Highway 78, are essential for local travel and access to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities. Drive times to these facilities are generally shorter, ranging from 5-15 minutes, making them convenient for routine check-ups and immediate medical needs.

Public transportation presents a more complex scenario. The availability of public transit in rural areas often lags behind urban centers. In Graham, the options are limited. The Anniston Transit System (ATS) does not directly serve Graham. Therefore, those relying on public transit for healthcare access must rely on alternative arrangements. This limitation highlights the challenges faced by individuals without personal vehicles, underscoring the importance of considering this aspect when evaluating healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution, although their availability in Graham is variable. Ride-share services depend on driver density and demand. While they may be available, wait times and costs can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This variability necessitates careful planning and consideration when relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services offer specialized solutions for individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often equipped with trained medical personnel and specialized vehicles. However, these services typically come at a higher cost and require advance booking, making them less suitable for spontaneous healthcare needs.

Evaluating healthcare access involves a comprehensive assessment of all available transportation options. For individuals with asthma, the ability to quickly and reliably reach medical care is paramount. The Asthma Score for Graham, Alabama, considers the following:

* **Drive Times:** The relatively short drive times to Anniston's major healthcare facilities are a significant advantage. The proximity to smaller clinics and urgent care centers within Graham further enhances healthcare access.

* **Public Transit Limitations:** The absence of direct public transit service poses a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation options.

* **Ride-Sharing Variability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, requiring careful planning and consideration.

* **Medical Transport Options:** Medical transport services offer specialized solutions for individuals with mobility challenges, but they come at a higher cost and require advance booking.

* **Overall Accessibility:** The overall healthcare access in Graham is moderately good. The road network offers relatively efficient transportation, while the limited public transit and variable ride-sharing services present challenges.

For individuals with asthma, the Asthma Score for Graham, Alabama, highlights the importance of careful planning. While the road network provides relatively efficient access to healthcare facilities, the absence of robust public transit and the variability of ride-sharing services necessitate proactive strategies.

When considering moving to Graham, prospective residents with asthma should factor in the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Having a personal vehicle is highly advantageous for accessing healthcare in Graham.

* **Transportation Backup Plans:** Develop backup plans for healthcare appointments, including ride-sharing services, family or friends, and medical transport options.

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Consider the proximity of your residence to healthcare facilities, such as clinics, urgent care centers, and hospitals.

* **Emergency Preparedness:** Ensure you have a plan for emergencies, including the availability of medical transport services and the ability to quickly reach medical care.

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that your health insurance plan covers transportation costs for medical appointments.

The Asthma Score for Graham, Alabama, provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access. By carefully considering the transportation options and potential challenges, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure a safe and healthy living environment. The availability of healthcare is a vital component of any community, and in Graham, the accessibility of healthcare is a nuanced picture, requiring a thoughtful understanding of the transportation landscape.