36350, Midland City, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36350, Midland City, Alabama is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.61 percent of residents in 36350 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Flowers Hospital with a distance of 6.06 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Midland City (ZIP Code 36350)

The air hangs heavy in Midland City, Alabama (ZIP Code 36350), a town nestled in the Wiregrass region. For residents managing asthma, the ease of access to healthcare is paramount. This “Asthma Score” write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, a critical component of healthcare access, for individuals considering moving to Midland City or already residing here. It examines the feasibility of reaching medical facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services.

Midland City’s primary artery is **U.S. Highway 84**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on 84 offers direct access to Dothan, the nearest city with comprehensive healthcare facilities. **Alabama State Route 134** provides another key route, intersecting 84 and offering a more northerly path towards Dothan. The drive to major hospitals like Southeast Health Medical Center, a crucial destination for asthma sufferers, typically takes 15-25 minutes via these highways, depending on traffic. During peak hours, particularly morning and evening commutes, this time can extend, adding a layer of complexity for those experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Smaller roads, such as **County Road 41** and **County Road 12**, offer alternative routes, but they often involve navigating residential areas and potentially encountering slower speeds and more stop signs. While these roads might seem appealing for avoiding highway congestion, they can also increase travel time unpredictably, especially during school drop-off and pick-up periods. Careful consideration of these secondary routes is vital for anyone planning a move to Midland City and needs to assess their healthcare access needs.

Public transportation options in Midland City are limited. The Wiregrass Area Transit System (WATS) provides some service within the region, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals with chronic illnesses. Information on routes, including those that may serve Midland City, is available on the WATS website. However, the frequency of service is often limited, and the routes might not directly connect to all medical facilities. Crucially, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are generally available on WATS buses, making them a potential option for some asthma sufferers.

The absence of a robust public transportation system underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Dothan area, which includes Midland City. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This unreliability can be a significant concern for individuals with asthma who require prompt access to medical care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent trips to the doctor or specialist appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. Several companies operate in the Wiregrass region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically involve transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. Some companies also provide stretcher transport for patients who cannot sit upright. Researching and identifying reputable NEMT providers in the area is crucial for asthma sufferers who may need this level of support.

When considering moving to Midland City, potential residents with asthma must carefully evaluate the available healthcare access options. The dependence on personal vehicles is significant, highlighting the need for reliable transportation. The drive times to Dothan, while generally manageable, can be affected by traffic and road conditions. The limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate a proactive approach to planning healthcare access.

The distance to healthcare facilities is a critical element. The time spent traveling to and from appointments can impact the overall well-being of asthma sufferers. The stress of navigating traffic, the potential for delays, and the need for advance planning can all contribute to anxiety, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access.

The availability of specialized medical transport services provides a safety net for individuals who cannot drive or who require assistance. However, researching and establishing a relationship with a reliable provider is essential. Knowing the options and having a plan in place can provide peace of mind and ensure timely access to medical care.

The "Asthma Score" for Midland City (ZIP Code 36350) is, therefore, a mixed bag. The proximity to Dothan and its healthcare facilities is a positive factor. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation, however, present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers solutions, but their reliability and cost must be carefully considered. For individuals with asthma, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and a proactive approach to planning healthcare access are crucial for ensuring a good quality of life in Midland City.