36344, Hartford, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36344, Hartford, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.62 percent of residents in 36344 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wiregrass Medical Center with a distance of 11.94 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36344**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma, demands a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 36344 (likely encompassing a portion of Hartford, Alabama), assesses the commute to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. The aim is to provide a practical "Asthma Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of accessing medical care, crucial for anyone contemplating a move to Hartford or residing within the area.

The foundation of healthcare access in 36344 often rests on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for travel include US Highway 84, a vital east-west thoroughfare, and Alabama State Route 10, which offers a north-south connection. These roads, along with county roads and local streets, determine drive times to hospitals, clinics, and specialists.

Drive times, of course, fluctuate. During peak hours, congestion can add significant delays, particularly on US-84. A typical commute to a major healthcare facility in Dothan, the nearest city with extensive medical infrastructure, could range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This time frame can be considerably longer during inclement weather or if traveling to a more specialized clinic.

Public transportation options in 36344 are limited. The availability of bus routes and their frequency will greatly influence the Asthma Score. Detailed information about routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is essential. The absence of robust public transit significantly increases the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative. However, their availability in rural areas like Hartford may be inconsistent, and surge pricing during peak demand or emergencies could pose a financial barrier. The reliability of these services, especially for urgent medical needs, requires careful consideration.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions. Companies like FirstCall Medical Transportation or similar providers in the area would offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation.

Evaluating the Asthma Score requires a detailed assessment of the following factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, the cost of medical transport, and the overall accessibility of the transportation infrastructure. A high Asthma Score indicates excellent healthcare access, while a low score highlights significant challenges.

The absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Individuals relying on buses must consider schedules, route frequency, and potential delays. The lack of robust public transit may require individuals to depend on family members, friends, or community support for transportation.

Ride-sharing services, while convenient, may not always be readily available, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The cost of these services can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a critical component of the Asthma Score.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions. The cost, availability, and responsiveness of these services significantly influence the Asthma Score. Delays or difficulties in securing medical transport can have serious consequences for individuals managing asthma.

For someone considering moving to Hartford, understanding the Asthma Score is paramount. The score reflects the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare, a critical factor for individuals with asthma. The availability of transportation options directly affects the ability to manage asthma effectively.

A high Asthma Score indicates a favorable environment for managing asthma, with easy access to medical care. A low score suggests potential challenges, requiring careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation solutions. The Asthma Score is not just a numerical value; it represents the quality of life for individuals with asthma.

The infrastructure of the area impacts the Asthma Score. Well-maintained roads, efficient traffic flow, and accessible public transit options contribute to a higher score. Conversely, poor road conditions, traffic congestion, and limited transportation options lower the score.

The cost of transportation is another critical factor. The cost of gas, ride-sharing services, and medical transport can create a financial burden, particularly for low-income individuals. The affordability of transportation significantly impacts the Asthma Score.

The Asthma Score is not static; it can change over time. Improvements in public transit, the introduction of new ride-sharing services, or the expansion of medical transport options can all positively impact the score. Conversely, road closures, service disruptions, or rising transportation costs can negatively affect the score.

The Asthma Score serves as a valuable tool for individuals with asthma, healthcare providers, and community planners. It provides a clear picture of the healthcare access landscape in 36344, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. This information can inform decisions about where to live, how to manage asthma, and how to advocate for improved transportation options.

The Asthma Score is not just about numbers; it's about people. It's about ensuring that individuals with asthma have timely and reliable access to the medical care they need. It's about creating a community that supports the health and well-being of all its residents.

The final Asthma Score is calculated based on a weighted average of the factors discussed. Drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing reliability, medical transport availability, and transportation costs are all considered. The higher the score, the better the access to healthcare for individuals with asthma in 36344.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for 36344, reflecting healthcare access, is influenced by transportation options. Drive times on US-84 and AL-10, limited public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services all play a role. Understanding these factors is essential for individuals managing asthma and considering a move to Hartford, Alabama. The score represents the ease and efficiency of accessing medical care, directly impacting the quality of life for those with asthma.