36773, Safford, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36773, Safford, Alabama is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

7.69 percent of residents in 36773 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Paul Jones Hospital with a distance of 20.41 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 36773

Moving to a new location, especially with health considerations like asthma, demands a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 36773, encompassing Safford, Alabama, and provides an "Asthma Score" assessment based on transportation options and their implications for individuals managing asthma. This score considers the ease and reliability of reaching healthcare facilities, crucial for managing this respiratory condition.

The Asthma Score, for this write-up, is a hypothetical construct. It aims to evaluate the accessibility of healthcare based on transportation factors. A higher score would indicate better access, considering drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transport options.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The primary mode of transportation in Safford is personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is paramount. The closest major healthcare provider is likely in Selma, Alabama, a drive primarily via US Highway 80. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to traffic, especially during peak hours. The drive, under normal conditions, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the specific location within 36773 and the destination in Selma.

Alternative routes might involve county roads, potentially offering shorter distances but often with less reliable road surfaces. These roads may be less well-maintained, posing challenges for vehicles and potentially increasing travel time. The condition of these roads also affects ride comfort, which can be a factor for individuals with asthma, particularly during flare-ups.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in rural Alabama are often limited. Information regarding specific bus routes and schedules in 36773 is difficult to find. It's reasonable to assume that public transit is not a primary transportation option for healthcare access. The lack of readily available information suggests infrequent service, if any.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on any potential public transit is critical for individuals with disabilities or those experiencing asthma-related mobility issues. Without clear information on route numbers, schedules, and ADA compliance, the Asthma Score for public transit access would be low.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, may operate in the Selma area, potentially offering a transportation alternative. However, their availability in the more rural area of Safford (36773) is uncertain. The reliability of ride-share services can be a concern, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency ambulance services, are specifically designed for transporting patients to medical appointments. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. Researching the availability of medical transport providers in the area, and their associated costs, is essential.

**Healthcare Access and Asthma Management:**

The Asthma Score is directly impacted by the ease with which individuals can access healthcare. Regular check-ups, quick access to urgent care during asthma exacerbations, and the ability to pick up medications are all vital components of effective asthma management.

The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-share services, can negatively impact the Asthma Score. Individuals with asthma need to be able to quickly and safely reach medical care when symptoms worsen. Delays in accessing treatment can lead to more severe asthma attacks and potentially life-threatening situations.

**Impact of Road Conditions and Weather:**

Road conditions and weather play a significant role in transportation reliability. During inclement weather, such as heavy rain or fog, travel times increase, and road safety decreases. This is especially true on less-maintained county roads.

Individuals with asthma are often more sensitive to environmental factors, including air quality. Driving on dusty roads, or through areas with poor air quality, can trigger asthma symptoms. Therefore, the route taken, and the conditions encountered during the commute to healthcare, must be carefully considered.

**Moving to Safford: Considerations for Asthma Patients:**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Safford (36773), a detailed assessment of transportation options is critical. The Asthma Score will be influenced by the availability of reliable transportation, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the ability to quickly access medical care during emergencies.

Thorough research is essential. This includes:

* **Contacting local healthcare providers:** Inquiring about the availability of asthma specialists, pulmonologists, and emergency services.
* **Investigating local transportation options:** Confirming the availability and reliability of ride-share services, medical transport, and public transit.
* **Assessing road conditions:** Evaluating the maintenance of roads and potential travel delays.
* **Considering the impact of weather:** Understanding how weather conditions can affect travel times and asthma symptoms.

**Enhancing the Asthma Score:**

Improving the Asthma Score in 36773 requires addressing transportation challenges. Potential solutions include:

* **Advocating for improved public transit:** Supporting initiatives to expand public transit services, including ADA-compliant options.
* **Promoting ride-share accessibility:** Encouraging ride-share companies to expand their service areas to include Safford.
* **Supporting medical transport services:** Ensuring the availability of affordable and reliable medical transport.
* **Improving road maintenance:** Advocating for the maintenance and improvement of local roads.

**Conclusion:**

The Asthma Score in 36773 is likely to be moderate, reflecting the challenges of healthcare access in a rural area. While Selma provides healthcare facilities, transportation limitations, particularly the lack of reliable public transit and potential ride-share limitations, can pose significant challenges for individuals with asthma. Careful planning, including assessing transportation options and identifying healthcare providers, is crucial for ensuring effective asthma management in this area. The individual's ability to navigate the transportation landscape directly impacts their ability to access the healthcare they need. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of transportation options is paramount for those considering moving to Safford and managing asthma.