36569, Saint Stephens, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36569, Saint Stephens, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.11 percent of residents in 36569 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson Medical Center with a distance of 11.57 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in Saint Stephens, Alabama (ZIP Code 36569)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and saltwater in Saint Stephens, Alabama. Nestled in the heart of Washington County, this community offers a slower pace of life, a connection to the land, and a palpable sense of history. But for those managing asthma, the idyllic setting necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, a critical factor in overall well-being. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape in ZIP code 36569, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. It's a crucial element for anyone contemplating moving to Saint Stephens, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The primary challenge in Saint Stephens is its relative isolation. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in nearby towns, meaning residents rely heavily on personal **transportation**. Driving is the dominant mode, and the condition of roadways and the distance to hospitals and clinics significantly impact the Asthma Score.

The most direct route to Mobile, the regional hub for advanced medical care, involves navigating the winding roads of Washington County. The primary artery is **Highway 43**, a two-lane thoroughfare that can experience congestion during peak hours. A drive to the University of South Alabama Medical Center, a major tertiary care facility, typically takes around an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. The journey necessitates a careful assessment of air quality forecasts, especially during allergy seasons or periods of high ozone levels, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Further south, **Highway 98** provides an alternative route, though it adds mileage and time. While offering scenic views of the Alabama landscape, this route may be less desirable for those experiencing an asthma flare-up, as the increased travel time could delay access to emergency care.

For those seeking local healthcare, the options are more limited. The nearest urgent care facilities and primary care physicians are located in Jackson, approximately a thirty-minute drive. Accessing these facilities requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The roads leading into Jackson, primarily **Highway 43** and **Highway 69**, can be subject to heavy truck traffic, particularly during weekdays, potentially increasing travel time.

Public **transportation** options in Saint Stephens are extremely limited. Washington County does not have a formal public bus system. This severely restricts **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those without personal vehicles. The absence of public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles, which can be a significant barrier to care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies, might be challenging. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the area. However, these services are primarily for emergency situations or for individuals with specific medical needs. The cost of these services can be substantial, and they may not be readily available for routine appointments or preventative care.

The lack of readily available public **transportation** and the limitations of ride-sharing services create a significant challenge for individuals with asthma. The need to rely on personal vehicles puts a greater burden on patients and their families, requiring them to manage travel time, traffic, and potential delays. This is especially concerning for those experiencing an asthma flare-up, where timely access to medical care is crucial.

The topography of the area, while beautiful, also presents challenges. The rural nature of Saint Stephens means that emergency services may take longer to arrive in the event of a medical crisis. This delay can be critical for individuals with asthma, where rapid intervention is often necessary.

The quality of air within the home environment is another critical factor. While Saint Stephens offers a natural environment, allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites can trigger asthma symptoms. Proper ventilation, air filtration systems, and regular cleaning are essential to maintaining good indoor air quality.

In assessing the Asthma Score for Saint Stephens, the following factors are weighed: the distance to medical facilities, the availability of **transportation** options, the condition of roadways, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services. The score reflects the challenges faced by residents with asthma in accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

The Asthma Score for ZIP code 36569 is, therefore, moderately low. While the community offers a peaceful and attractive living environment, the limited access to healthcare, particularly for those without personal vehicles, presents a significant challenge.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Saint Stephens, a comprehensive assessment of their individual healthcare needs is crucial. This should include a review of their current medical condition, the frequency of their medical appointments, and their ability to manage their asthma symptoms in the absence of readily available healthcare services.

The absence of public **transportation** necessitates careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. It's essential to establish a reliable plan for accessing medical care, including identifying local physicians, urgent care facilities, and emergency services. The availability of medical **transportation** services should also be investigated.

The Asthma Score underscores the importance of proactive asthma management in Saint Stephens. This includes regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, adherence to prescribed medications, and the development of a personalized asthma action plan. Monitoring air quality forecasts and avoiding triggers is also essential.

Moving to Saint Stephens requires a realistic understanding of the challenges and a proactive approach to managing asthma. While the community offers a unique lifestyle, the limitations in **healthcare access** necessitate careful consideration and planning. The Asthma Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing the suitability of this location for individuals with respiratory conditions.