36524, Coffeeville, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36524, Coffeeville, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.59 percent of residents in 36524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson Medical Center with a distance of 19.13 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Coffeeville, Alabama (ZIP Code 36524)

The air hangs thick and humid in Coffeeville, Alabama, a small town nestled in the heart of Clarke County. For residents managing asthma, the quality of their daily life hinges on the ease with which they can access healthcare. This "Asthma Score" write-up meticulously examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 36524, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, painting a detailed picture of healthcare accessibility. This information is crucial for individuals considering moving to Coffeeville or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

Coffeeville's geographic isolation presents a significant challenge. The nearest major medical facilities are located in larger towns, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. The primary roadways serving the area are US Highway 84 and Alabama State Route 17. These roads, while providing essential links, can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions, impacting drive times and potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms through prolonged exposure to vehicle emissions.

Driving to the nearest hospitals and specialized clinics forms the cornerstone of healthcare access for most residents. Jackson Medical Center, approximately 25 miles east via US-84 East, represents a crucial destination. The drive, typically taking 30-45 minutes under ideal conditions, can be considerably longer if traffic is heavy or if the driver is delayed by a medical emergency. Further, the drive to Mobile, Alabama, a city with a broader range of specialists, is approximately 90 miles south via US-43 South and I-65 South, a journey that can easily consume two hours or more. This extended travel time poses a significant hurdle for individuals experiencing acute asthma exacerbations, making timely intervention more difficult.

Public transportation options are limited in Coffeeville and surrounding areas, further complicating healthcare access. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a major challenge for those without personal vehicles, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. While specific route numbers and schedules are unavailable for the region, it is safe to assume that any available public transit options would likely have limited service frequency and extended travel times, potentially increasing exposure to environmental triggers and worsening asthma symptoms. The availability of ADA-accessible features on any existing public transit is also a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can access healthcare services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in Coffeeville is uncertain. Even if services are available, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The distance to major medical centers also increases the cost of these services, making them a less viable option for many residents. The lack of readily available ride-sharing options significantly limits the transportation choices available to those needing healthcare.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other regional providers offer ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). NEMT services are particularly important for individuals who cannot drive themselves but do not require an ambulance. These services, however, can be expensive and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for sudden asthma attacks. The availability and response times of these services in Coffeeville are crucial factors in evaluating healthcare access.

The Asthma Score in Coffeeville reflects the complex interplay of transportation factors and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unavailability of ride-sharing services create a challenging environment for individuals with asthma. The extended drive times to specialized medical facilities, particularly during emergencies, can significantly impact patient outcomes. The cost and availability of medical transport services further influence the overall accessibility of healthcare.

Moving to Coffeeville for an individual with asthma requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of medical services, assess their ability to drive or arrange for transportation, and understand the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare. The location's remoteness demands proactive planning and a strong support network to ensure timely access to medical care.

Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Coffeeville requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring the potential for expanding public transit options, advocating for the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the efficient operation of medical transport services. Community education about asthma management and emergency preparedness is also essential. By addressing these challenges, Coffeeville can strive to create a healthier environment for all its residents, including those managing the complexities of asthma. The success of this effort depends on the commitment of local leaders, healthcare providers, and community members to prioritize the health and well-being of all residents.