36360, Ozark, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36360, Ozark, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.75 percent of residents in 36360 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dale Medical Center with a distance of 1.46 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Ozark, Alabama (ZIP Code 36360)

Ozark, Alabama, nestled in the heart of the Wiregrass region, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma. Understanding the transportation infrastructure is crucial to assess the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, impacting their ability to control and manage this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis, the "Asthma Score," delves into the transportation options available within and around ZIP code 36360, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, all vital components of healthcare access.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in Ozark are Highway 231 and Highway 27. Highway 231, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides a direct route to Dothan, approximately 20 miles south, where more extensive medical facilities, including Southeast Health, are located. This drive, typically taking around 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions, is a critical factor for individuals requiring specialized asthma care or experiencing acute exacerbations. Highway 27, running east-west, offers access to surrounding towns and communities, but its impact on healthcare access is less direct.

For residents of Ozark, particularly those without personal vehicles, reliance on public transportation is a significant consideration. Unfortunately, the public transit options in Ozark are extremely limited. The city does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transportation creates a significant barrier for individuals with asthma, especially those with limited mobility or financial constraints. It necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, potentially increasing the time and effort required to reach medical appointments and obtain necessary medications.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potentially viable alternative for transportation. However, their availability in Ozark is variable, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could present a financial burden. The reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather or late at night, is also a concern. For individuals experiencing asthma symptoms, the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing could complicate timely access to medical care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized transport providers, are particularly crucial for individuals with severe asthma or those requiring assistance with mobility. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited, especially for routine appointments.

The distance to healthcare facilities is a critical factor in determining the Asthma Score. Southeast Health in Dothan, while offering comprehensive medical services, requires a drive of approximately 30 minutes via Highway 231. This drive time, coupled with potential traffic delays, can be challenging for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms. Furthermore, the availability of urgent care facilities and pharmacies within Ozark itself is limited, further increasing the reliance on transportation for even basic medical needs.

The Asthma Score also considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities. While Southeast Health is equipped to handle a wide range of medical needs, the availability of specialized asthma care within Ozark is limited. This necessitates travel to Dothan or other regional centers, adding to the transportation burden. The availability of pharmacies within Ozark is crucial for obtaining asthma medications and supplies. The ease with which individuals can access these resources directly impacts their ability to manage their condition effectively.

The economic considerations of transportation are also significant. The cost of fuel, ride-sharing services, and medical transport can place a financial strain on individuals with asthma, particularly those with limited incomes. This financial burden can affect their ability to adhere to treatment plans and access necessary medical care. The availability of financial assistance programs or transportation subsidies could mitigate this challenge.

For individuals considering moving to Ozark, Alabama, and managing asthma, a thorough assessment of the transportation infrastructure is essential. The limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare facilities pose significant challenges. The Asthma Score highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation costs and reliability.

The Asthma Score for ZIP code 36360 is, therefore, influenced by the following factors: the drive time to the nearest comprehensive medical facility (Southeast Health), the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, the lack of a public bus system, and the cost of transportation. The lack of readily available public transit and the dependence on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score.

Improving healthcare access in Ozark requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring options for expanding public transportation, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide affordable services, and increasing the availability of medical transport options. Encouraging the development of telemedicine services could also improve healthcare access for individuals with asthma.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of available resources, such as financial assistance programs for transportation and asthma medications, is crucial. The Asthma Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in Ozark, Alabama. It underscores the importance of considering transportation infrastructure when assessing the suitability of a location for individuals managing asthma and emphasizes the need for community-based solutions to improve healthcare access.