The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 36921, Toxey, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
66.41 percent of residents in 36921 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Choctaw General Hospital with a distance of 10.59 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 36921, Toxey, Alabama
Asthma Score | 14 |
---|---|
People Score | 86 |
Provider Score | 8 |
Hospital Score | 27 |
Travel Score | 11 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 36921 | Toxey | Alabama |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 1.85 |
1 Car | 19.25 | 19.25 | 18.18 |
2 Cars | 35.47 | 35.47 | 39.34 |
3 or More Cars | 45.28 | 45.28 | 40.63 |
Vehicular Access in 36921, Toxey, Alabama
## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Toxey, Alabama (ZIP Code 36921)
The air hangs heavy in Toxey, Alabama, a rural community nestled in Choctaw County. For residents managing asthma, the very act of breathing can be a challenge, compounded by the complexities of accessing healthcare. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape, a critical factor determining healthcare access for individuals with respiratory conditions in ZIP code 36921. The goal is to illuminate the practical realities of moving to Toxey or residing there, considering the specific needs of asthma sufferers.
The primary concern for asthma patients is the promptness of care, particularly during exacerbations. The ability to quickly reach a healthcare provider can mean the difference between a manageable episode and a life-threatening crisis. This underscores the importance of evaluating transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport.
Driving is the dominant mode of transportation in Toxey. The nearest hospitals and specialized respiratory care facilities are located in cities like Meridian, Mississippi, or larger towns within Alabama, such as Butler or Thomasville. Travel times are significant. From Toxey, a drive to Butler, the Choctaw General Hospital, takes approximately 20-30 minutes, primarily via **Highway 17** and **Highway 10**. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays due to weather or accidents can impact healthcare access.
Reaching Meridian, Mississippi, for more specialized care, involves a drive of roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily utilizing **Highway 17** north to **Highway 80** west. This longer journey presents increased risks for asthma sufferers, particularly if an emergency arises. The route is more exposed to potential traffic and variable air quality.
Public transportation options are limited in Toxey and the surrounding areas. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Toxey. The nearest public transit options would likely involve a long-distance bus service, such as Greyhound, which would require travel to a larger city and then a transfer. This is impractical for urgent healthcare needs. Furthermore, the lack of accessible public transit, including vehicles with ADA features, creates a significant barrier for individuals with mobility limitations, often associated with severe asthma.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Toxey. This leaves residents reliant on personal vehicles, family, or friends for transportation. The absence of ride-sharing further limits healthcare access, especially for those without personal transportation or those unable to drive. This lack of readily available transportation significantly impacts the asthma score.
Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are a crucial consideration. Several companies offer ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services in the region. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including those for asthma management. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.
Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services are typically available for emergency transport. For non-emergency transport, companies such as MedStar or smaller local providers may offer services, but their coverage area and specific pricing should be verified. The ability to secure medical transport, particularly during an asthma exacerbation, is critical for ensuring timely access to care. The wait times and availability of these services must be carefully considered.
The air quality in Toxey and the surrounding areas is another important factor. Rural areas can experience seasonal variations in air quality due to agricultural practices, such as pesticide spraying, and environmental factors like pollen and mold. These factors can trigger or exacerbate asthma symptoms. Residents with asthma must be vigilant in monitoring air quality reports and taking necessary precautions, such as using air purifiers and avoiding outdoor activities during high-risk periods.
Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care in the region is a key consideration. While Choctaw General Hospital in Butler can provide some level of care, the availability of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists may be limited. Residents may need to travel to larger cities, such as Meridian or Mobile, Alabama, to access specialized asthma management services, including pulmonary function testing, allergy testing, and advanced treatments. This further increases the reliance on reliable transportation.
The healthcare infrastructure in Toxey, and the surrounding areas, also impacts the asthma score. The availability of pharmacies, urgent care clinics, and primary care physicians is crucial for managing asthma. Residents should be aware of the locations of these facilities and their operating hours. Access to prescription medications, including rescue inhalers and long-term control medications, is essential for effective asthma management.
The social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status and access to health insurance, also play a role in healthcare access. Individuals with limited financial resources may face challenges in affording transportation, medications, and specialized care. The availability of financial assistance programs and resources is crucial for ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents, particularly those with chronic conditions like asthma.
In conclusion, the Asthma Score for ZIP code 36921 reflects a challenging transportation landscape for individuals with asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the absence of readily available ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access. While medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, their availability and cost must be carefully considered. The lack of readily available transportation significantly impacts the asthma score.
Prospective residents with asthma should thoroughly evaluate the transportation options, healthcare infrastructure, and air quality conditions before moving to Toxey. They should develop a comprehensive plan for managing their asthma, including identifying reliable transportation resources, establishing relationships with healthcare providers, and understanding the local environmental factors that may impact their respiratory health. Moving to Toxey requires careful planning and awareness of the transportation and healthcare access challenges.
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