36722, Arlington, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36722, Arlington, Alabama is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 36722 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Paul Jones Hospital with a distance of 16.70 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 36722

The air hangs heavy with the promise of humidity in ZIP Code 36722, a region where the whispers of the Black Belt echo through the cypress swamps and along the banks of the Alabama River. For those managing asthma, the journey to healthcare becomes a critical consideration, a daily negotiation with the environment and the limitations of **transportation** options. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of accessing medical care in this area, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services. It's a crucial element for anyone **moving to Arlington**, or considering a relocation to this area, especially those with respiratory concerns, and underscores the importance of **healthcare access**.

The primary challenge in 36722 is its relative remoteness. The nearest major medical facilities are clustered in Selma, approximately 20 to 30 minutes away, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. This drive typically involves navigating the two-lane roads that crisscross the landscape.

The most direct route to Selma often involves taking **Highway 22** east, then connecting to **Highway 80**. This route, though straightforward, can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours. The condition of the roads themselves, a critical factor for those with asthma, can vary. Potholes and uneven surfaces can exacerbate the physical stress of the journey, potentially triggering asthma symptoms.

Alternatively, residents might consider using **County Road 9** and then merging onto **Highway 80**. This route may offer slightly less traffic, but the roads are often narrower, and the overall drive time remains comparable. Regardless of the chosen path, the constant exposure to vehicle exhaust and potential allergens, such as pollen and mold, necessitates careful planning and preparation for those with asthma.

Public **transportation** options in 36722 are limited. The availability of public buses is sparse, and routes are infrequent. The primary mode of public transit is the Selma City Transit, and their reach into the more rural areas of 36722 is minimal. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility is difficult to obtain, and the system does not extend to the area. This severely restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Selma, but their presence in the more remote parts of 36722 is unreliable. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies, can be challenging. The cost of these services can also quickly accumulate, placing a financial burden on those who frequently need to access medical care. Furthermore, the potential for exposure to allergens within a ride-share vehicle, such as pet dander or cigarette smoke, presents another layer of concern for asthma sufferers.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, but their availability and cost vary. Ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, but the cost of this service can be prohibitive for non-emergency transportation. Specialized medical transport companies may offer services for scheduled appointments, but these services typically require advance booking and come with a significant price tag.

For individuals with asthma, planning for medical appointments requires a proactive approach. This includes factoring in potential delays, such as traffic, road conditions, and the availability of **transportation**. The unpredictable nature of asthma symptoms necessitates having an emergency plan in place, including readily available medications and a designated support system.

The environmental factors in 36722 further complicate the picture. The humid climate, common in the Black Belt region, can trigger asthma symptoms. The presence of allergens, such as pollen from local flora and mold spores, adds to the challenges. Air quality monitoring is essential for asthma management.

The Asthma Score for 36722 reflects the complex interplay of factors that influence **healthcare access**. Drive times to medical facilities, while manageable, are subject to potential delays. Public transit is severely limited, and ride-sharing services are unreliable. Medical transport options are available but can be costly. The environmental factors, including humidity and allergens, further exacerbate the challenges for those with asthma.

Individuals **moving to Arlington** or considering relocating to 36722 with asthma must carefully assess their **transportation** options and establish a robust healthcare plan. This includes identifying reliable sources of medical care, establishing a relationship with local pharmacies, and developing a comprehensive asthma management plan. The goal is to ensure timely access to medical care and minimize the impact of environmental triggers.

The journey to healthcare in 36722 demands careful navigation. The Asthma Score reflects the importance of proactive planning, resourcefulness, and a commitment to prioritizing respiratory health. It is a reminder that **healthcare access** extends beyond the walls of a clinic, encompassing the very means by which individuals reach the care they need.