36439, Excel, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36439, Excel, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.00 percent of residents in 36439 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Hospital with a distance of 4.78 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36439

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Brewton, Alabama (ZIP Code 36439) demands a keen understanding of transportation options. This assessment, the "Asthma Score," considers commute times, accessibility, and the availability of various modes of transport, crucial factors for individuals managing asthma, a condition often exacerbated by environmental stressors and timely medical attention. The goal is to paint a clear picture of healthcare access, informing residents and prospective newcomers about the realities of getting to vital medical appointments.

The primary healthcare provider in Brewton is D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital. Its location is central, but the surrounding geography, a mix of rural and suburban environments, significantly impacts commute dynamics. The "Asthma Score" considers the ease of reaching not just the hospital, but also specialist clinics, pharmacies, and urgent care facilities, all essential for comprehensive asthma management.

**Driving Dynamics: The Road to Relief**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Brewton. The primary arteries are US Highway 31, a north-south corridor, and Alabama State Route 4, traversing east-west. These roads, though generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near the town center. For residents in outlying areas, the drive to D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital, located conveniently off US 31, could take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the starting point and traffic conditions.

The secondary roads, such as Alabama State Route 41 and County Road 15, provide alternative routes, but they are often less direct and can be subject to potholes and other road hazards, potentially impacting ride comfort and safety for those with respiratory sensitivities. The condition of these roads, coupled with the distance, becomes a significant factor in the "Asthma Score," as rough rides can trigger asthma symptoms.

Specialist clinics, such as those for pulmonology and allergy, are often located within the hospital complex or in nearby office buildings. Drive times to these appointments are typically consistent with the hospital commute. However, accessing pharmacies for medication refills might involve additional travel, potentially adding 5 to 10 minutes to the overall journey, depending on the pharmacy's location.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Brewton are limited. The City of Brewton operates a small, demand-response transit system. Information on routes and schedules is not readily available online, and its operational hours are likely restricted. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, which can often accompany severe asthma. However, the limited scope of the public transit system suggests that it may not be a viable option for many residents needing regular healthcare access.

The "Asthma Score" must reflect the inadequacy of public transit, as reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transport is often unavoidable. The lack of accessible, reliable public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Brewton. This absence creates a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles, especially during emergencies or when family support is unavailable. The lack of ride-sharing services necessitates reliance on alternative solutions.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are typically reserved for critical medical needs and may not be practical for routine appointments or medication pickups. The cost of medical transport can also be a significant financial burden, further impacting healthcare access for individuals with limited resources.

**The "Asthma Score" and Excel Integration**

The "Asthma Score" will be a composite metric, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the accessibility of essential healthcare services. Each element will be weighted based on its impact on healthcare access for asthma sufferers.

To facilitate analysis and potential updates, the data will be meticulously organized and integrated into an Excel spreadsheet. Columns will include:

* **Location:** Starting point (e.g., residential address, specific neighborhood).
* **Destination:** Healthcare facility (hospital, clinic, pharmacy).
* **Drive Time (Minutes):** Estimated time via various routes during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Route numbers, frequency, ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Presence/absence of services, estimated cost.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Contact information, estimated cost.
* **Overall Accessibility Score:** A numerical rating based on the weighted factors.
* **Comments:** Notes on road conditions, traffic patterns, service limitations.

This structured data will allow for easy calculation of the "Asthma Score" for different locations within ZIP Code 36439. It will also enable the identification of areas with the greatest healthcare access challenges, informing targeted interventions and improvements.

**Conclusion: Towards Improved Healthcare Access**

The "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 36439 reveals a landscape where transportation limitations significantly impact healthcare access for asthma sufferers. While driving is the primary mode, the lack of robust public transit and ride-sharing options creates challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The integration of this information into an Excel spreadsheet provides a practical tool for assessing and improving healthcare access, ultimately helping residents of Brewton manage their asthma more effectively. Further investigation into potential solutions, such as advocating for expanded public transit or facilitating ride-sharing partnerships, is crucial to ensure that all residents can receive the timely and appropriate care they need. This detailed assessment, coupled with data-driven analysis, aims to illuminate the path towards a healthier future for the community.