36318, Coffee Springs, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36318, Coffee Springs, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.78 percent of residents in 36318 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wiregrass Medical Center with a distance of 9.36 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coffee Springs (ZIP Code 36318)

The crisp air of Coffee Springs, Alabama, might beckon with the promise of rural tranquility, but for those managing asthma, the journey to healthcare access demands careful consideration. This Asthma Score write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 36318, focusing on the practicalities of reaching medical care, a critical factor for anyone contemplating a move to this community.

Our assessment considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. This information aims to provide a comprehensive overview, allowing individuals with asthma to evaluate the ease with which they can access necessary medical attention. The goal is to empower informed decisions, ensuring that the allure of Coffee Springs doesn't overshadow the essential need for readily available healthcare.

**Driving Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Coffee Springs is, undeniably, the automobile. The convenience of personal vehicles is paramount, especially for those with chronic respiratory conditions. However, drive times to healthcare facilities become a crucial determinant of quality of life.

The closest significant medical hub is Enterprise, approximately 20 miles away. Traveling to Enterprise Regional Medical Center (ERMC) typically involves navigating Highway 84 East. In optimal traffic conditions, the drive should take around 30-40 minutes. However, traffic fluctuations, especially during peak hours or due to accidents, can significantly extend this time, a critical consideration for an asthma patient experiencing a flare-up.

Alternatively, depending on the specific healthcare provider, accessing medical care in Dothan, roughly 40 miles away, might be necessary. This route involves utilizing Highway 84 West, potentially connecting to Highway 231 South. The drive to Dothan, home to Southeast Health, could take up to an hour, again contingent on traffic.

The quality of roads themselves plays a role. Highway 84 is generally well-maintained, but potential hazards like potholes or construction zones could impact travel times. Residents should regularly check road conditions, especially during inclement weather, to anticipate delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Coffee Springs and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

The Wiregrass Transit Authority (WTA) serves the broader Wiregrass region, including Enterprise and Dothan. However, WTA routes, frequency, and coverage in Coffee Springs are minimal. Information on specific routes serving the area is scarce, and direct routes to medical facilities are unlikely.

Furthermore, the accessibility of WTA buses for individuals with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or other mobility devices, is a crucial factor. WTA buses are designed to be ADA-compliant, but the limited service area means that the convenience of public transit is not a viable option for most residents of Coffee Springs seeking healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Enterprise and Dothan areas, but their presence in Coffee Springs is less certain. Availability depends on driver density, and the reliability of these services for on-demand transportation is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. Several medical transportation companies operate in the Wiregrass region.

**Medical Transport Options:**

* **MedRide:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation.
* **First Response Ambulance Service:** Offers both emergency and non-emergency transport.
* **Care Ride:** This service is available for those who need assistance getting to medical appointments.

These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations and can provide a more comfortable and reliable transportation option. However, they typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Healthcare Access and the Asthma Score: A Holistic View**

The Asthma Score for Coffee Springs, based on transportation factors, is moderate. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare, the distance to medical facilities and the potential for traffic delays pose challenges. The lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the picture.

Individuals with asthma considering a move to Coffee Springs should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and develop a comprehensive plan for accessing healthcare. This plan should include:

* **Assessing personal driving capabilities:** Ensuring a reliable vehicle and considering the impact of driving distances on their health.
* **Investigating medical transportation options:** Researching the availability, cost, and booking procedures for local medical transportation services.
* **Exploring telehealth opportunities:** Utilizing telemedicine for routine check-ups and consultations to reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **Establishing a support network:** Identifying friends, family members, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance in emergencies.

The decision to move to Coffee Springs should be informed by a realistic understanding of the transportation landscape. Proactive planning and a proactive approach to healthcare access are essential for ensuring the well-being of individuals with asthma in this rural community. The allure of a slower pace of life should not overshadow the fundamental need for readily available medical care.