35125, Pell City, Alabama COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 35125, Pell City, Alabama is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.19 percent of residents in 35125 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 0.59 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35125

Considering a move to Pell City, Alabama, ZIP code 35125, and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This analysis, a "COPD Score" write-up, assesses the accessibility of healthcare within this community, focusing on transportation options crucial for managing COPD. Transportation, a cornerstone of healthcare access, becomes paramount when dealing with respiratory challenges, influencing the quality of life and the ability to maintain consistent medical care.

Pell City, nestled in St. Clair County, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger urban centers. Its location, however, dictates the nature of healthcare access. For those with COPD, regular doctor appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and potential emergency room visits are realities. Therefore, understanding the commute to healthcare facilities is vital.

The primary healthcare provider in Pell City is St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital. This facility, offering a range of services, including pulmonary care, is a critical element in the COPD Score. Driving is the most prevalent transportation mode in this area, and the routes to the hospital are fairly straightforward.

From most residential areas within 35125, the hospital is easily accessible via Interstate 20 (I-20). Depending on the specific location within the zip code, the drive typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. Utilizing I-20 provides a direct, relatively smooth route. Alternatively, local roads like US Highway 78 (also known as Pell City Parkway) offer another option, though they are more prone to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

For those residing in the more rural portions of 35125, access via local roads like Stemley Bridge Road or Cogswell Avenue might be necessary to reach US-78 or I-20. These routes, while scenic, can be more time-consuming and potentially challenging for individuals with COPD, especially during inclement weather.

Public transportation options are limited in Pell City and St. Clair County. There is no established, regularly scheduled bus service that directly serves the healthcare facilities. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the COPD Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. This deficiency emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transportation services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Pell City. However, their reliability and availability can fluctuate. Waiting times can be longer than in larger metropolitan areas, and the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. This variable availability adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access for COPD patients.

Medical transportation services are a crucial component of the COPD Score. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services offer door-to-door transport, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility issues or medical needs.

Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers offer NEMT services in Pell City. The availability and cost of these services vary, and pre-booking is often required. This pre-planning aspect is essential for COPD patients who need to schedule regular appointments. The ability to secure reliable medical transportation directly influences the overall COPD Score.

The COPD Score also considers the accessibility of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital offers such programs, but the ability to attend these programs regularly is dependent on transportation. The same transportation challenges apply to accessing these vital resources.

Beyond the immediate healthcare providers, the proximity to larger medical centers in Birmingham, approximately an hour's drive west on I-20, is a factor. While not ideal for routine care, the availability of specialized services and emergency care at facilities like UAB Hospital adds a layer of reassurance. However, this distance necessitates reliable transportation and careful planning.

The COPD Score is also influenced by the availability of pharmacy services. Multiple pharmacies are located within 35125, ensuring easy access to medications. However, the transportation challenges to reach these pharmacies, particularly for those without personal vehicles, are a consideration.

For individuals considering moving to Pell City with COPD, the COPD Score highlights the importance of careful planning. The reliance on personal vehicles or medical transportation necessitates proactive measures. Researching and securing reliable NEMT services, exploring ride-sharing options, and establishing a network of support are crucial steps.

The COPD Score for 35125, while acknowledging the presence of healthcare facilities, underscores the limitations of public transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport services presents both opportunities and challenges. The ease of access to the hospital and pharmacy services are counterbalanced by the lack of consistent public transit.

The overall COPD Score for 35125, therefore, is moderately favorable. While healthcare is available, the transportation landscape requires careful consideration. For individuals with COPD, a move to Pell City necessitates proactive planning and a realistic assessment of their transportation needs. The ability to secure reliable transportation directly impacts the ability to manage COPD effectively and maintain a high quality of life.