35473, Northport, Alabama COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 35473, Northport, Alabama is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.07 percent of residents in 35473 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 33.59 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Northport, Alabama (ZIP Code 35473)

Considering a move to Northport, Alabama (ZIP Code 35473) and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? Understanding your **transportation** options and **healthcare access** is paramount. This "COPD Score" write-up assesses the ease of reaching medical facilities, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport within and around this zip code. We'll paint a picture of your potential healthcare journey, crucial for anyone **moving to Northport** with COPD.

Northport, nestled along the Black Warrior River, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to the larger city of Tuscaloosa. This balance impacts **transportation** and, consequently, **healthcare access** for individuals with COPD, who often require frequent medical appointments and may experience limitations in mobility. Our analysis considers the primary medical facilities serving this area, notably DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa and various clinics and specialist offices.

Driving remains the dominant mode of **transportation** in Northport. The major arteries facilitating travel include US Highway 82, a vital east-west corridor, and US Highway 43, which runs north-south. Alabama State Route 69, also a key route, intersects these highways, providing further connectivity. The time it takes to reach medical appointments is crucial for COPD patients.

From central Northport, the drive to DCH Regional Medical Center, located in Tuscaloosa, typically takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route involves taking US-82 East, then merging onto McFarland Boulevard (US-82 Business) to reach the hospital. During peak hours, especially around rush hour, congestion can increase drive times, potentially exacerbating COPD symptoms. Other clinics and specialist offices in Tuscaloosa, such as those along University Boulevard or near the University of Alabama campus, may involve similar drive times, requiring careful planning.

Within Northport, access to local clinics and urgent care facilities is generally more convenient. However, the availability of specialized pulmonology care might necessitate travel to Tuscaloosa. This underscores the importance of considering proximity to both primary care and specialized medical services when **moving to Northport** with COPD.

Public **transportation** options in Northport and Tuscaloosa are limited, impacting **healthcare access** for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. The Tuscaloosa Area **Transportation** Authority (TATA) operates bus routes throughout the city, including some service within Northport. However, these routes often have limited frequency, especially during evenings and weekends.

For individuals with COPD, the lack of frequent service can pose significant challenges. Waiting times at bus stops, especially in varying weather conditions, can be detrimental. The TATA system strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the reliability and convenience of public transit for frequent medical appointments remain a concern. Checking the TATA website for specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA accessibility details is essential.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option. While readily available in Tuscaloosa and Northport, the cost of these services can accumulate quickly, particularly with frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas of Northport, is also a factor to consider. Booking rides in advance is recommended, especially for appointments at DCH Regional Medical Center or other facilities.

Medical **transportation** services provide specialized assistance for individuals with COPD who require non-emergency medical **transportation**. Several companies operate in the Tuscaloosa area, offering services ranging from wheelchair-accessible vehicles to stretcher transport. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing. Researching and comparing different medical **transportation** providers, such as AMR or local ambulance services, is crucial to ensure reliable and appropriate **transportation** for medical appointments.

When **moving to Northport** with COPD, consider the physical layout of the area. Northport and Tuscaloosa are not exceptionally pedestrian-friendly, with limited sidewalks and crosswalks in some areas. This can make walking or using a wheelchair challenging, further emphasizing the reliance on vehicular **transportation**. Evaluating the accessibility of your chosen residence, including features like ramps and elevators, is also essential.

The "COPD Score" for **healthcare access** in Northport, Alabama, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to DCH Regional Medical Center and local clinics is generally favorable, the limited public transit options and the reliance on driving or ride-sharing present potential challenges. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services must be carefully considered.

Ultimately, the "COPD Score" for **healthcare access** in 35473 depends on individual circumstances. Assessing your mobility limitations, financial resources, and preferred mode of **transportation** is vital. Planning your healthcare journey, including pre-booking **transportation**, understanding route options, and considering the availability of support services, will greatly improve your quality of life and ensure you can effectively manage your COPD while enjoying the benefits of **moving to Northport**.