36912, Lisman, Alabama Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36912, Lisman, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.47 percent of residents in 36912 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Choctaw General Hospital with a distance of 9.32 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36912**

The air hangs heavy in Lisman, Alabama (ZIP code 36912), a rural community nestled in Choctaw County. For residents managing asthma, the quality of their commute to healthcare is paramount. This write-up assesses healthcare accessibility, focusing on transportation options and their impact on individuals living with asthma, a condition that can be severely aggravated by environmental factors and stress. We will explore the challenges and opportunities for those seeking medical care, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This analysis is crucial for anyone considering moving to Lisman, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Lisman is the ability to reach medical facilities, and for most, this means navigating the roads. The primary route is Alabama State Route 17, a two-lane highway that winds through the county. Driving to the nearest major healthcare providers, such as Choctaw General Hospital in Butler (approximately 15 miles) or the University of South Alabama Health System in Mobile (around 100 miles), dictates the quality of life for asthma sufferers.

Traffic is generally light on Route 17, but the road’s condition and the potential for delays due to weather or accidents can be concerning. The drive to Butler typically takes 20-30 minutes, offering relatively quick access to emergency services and general medical care. However, the longer journey to Mobile, averaging two hours, presents significant challenges. Extended travel times expose individuals to potential asthma triggers, including vehicle exhaust, pollen, and stress.

Alternative routes exist, including county roads that intersect with Route 17, but these often add to the travel time and may be in poorer condition. The availability of reliable, well-maintained roads is crucial for those with asthma, as a smooth, predictable journey minimizes exposure to potential triggers and reduces anxiety. The condition of the roads directly impacts the “Asthma Score” for this ZIP code.

Public transportation options in Lisman are limited. Choctaw County does not currently have a formal public bus system. This lack of public transportation severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the means to afford other transportation services. The absence of public transit disproportionately affects individuals with asthma who may have mobility limitations or financial constraints.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on other transportation methods. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while present in larger cities, are not readily available in Lisman. This leaves residents with limited options, often relying on friends, family, or informal transportation networks. The unreliability and potential costs associated with these alternatives contribute to a lower Asthma Score.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with medical needs. Several providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area, including some national brands and local operators. These services, which often require pre-booking, can transport patients to medical appointments. However, the availability, cost, and service quality of these providers vary.

The cost of medical transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for low-income individuals. Furthermore, the availability of these services may be limited, particularly during evenings, weekends, or in rural areas. The reliability of medical transport is crucial for asthma patients who require regular medical care and medication refills. Delays or cancellations can have serious consequences for their health.

The nearest major medical centers, such as the University of South Alabama Health System, are located in Mobile, a considerable distance from Lisman. The journey to Mobile involves navigating multiple highways, including Interstate 65. The drive time and potential for traffic congestion on I-65 can be stressful and expose individuals to air pollution. The quality of the air along the route, influenced by traffic and industrial activity, can significantly impact an asthma sufferer's health.

Healthcare access in Lisman is also affected by the availability of specialized medical care. Asthma management often requires regular visits to pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists. The absence of these specialists in Lisman necessitates travel to larger cities, further complicating healthcare access. The distance to these specialists, coupled with transportation challenges, can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially worsening asthma symptoms.

The environmental factors in Lisman also influence healthcare access. The area is known for its agricultural activities, which can contribute to air pollution and the presence of allergens like pollen and dust. The proximity of industrial facilities can also impact air quality. These environmental factors, combined with the challenges of transportation, can exacerbate asthma symptoms and increase the need for medical care.

The lack of readily available healthcare resources within Lisman necessitates careful planning and consideration for residents with asthma. The challenges of transportation, coupled with environmental factors, contribute to a lower Asthma Score. Individuals considering moving to Lisman should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of medical services.

The overall Asthma Score for ZIP code 36912 is negatively impacted by the lack of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access. The long distances to specialized medical care and the potential for environmental triggers further exacerbate the challenges.

Improving healthcare access in Lisman requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in public transportation, expanding the availability of medical transportation services, and promoting telehealth options could significantly improve the Asthma Score. Furthermore, initiatives to improve air quality and reduce environmental triggers would benefit all residents, especially those with respiratory conditions.

For those considering moving to Lisman, a thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare resources is essential. The quality of life for asthma sufferers in this community is directly tied to their ability to access timely and reliable medical care. The ability to manage asthma effectively depends on a comprehensive approach that addresses both transportation challenges and environmental factors.