35548, Brilliant, Alabama COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 35548, Brilliant, Alabama is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.32 percent of residents in 35548 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Medical Center with a distance of 7.74 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 35548**

Breathing easy is paramount, especially for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Access to timely and reliable healthcare is a crucial factor in managing this condition. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 35548, focusing on healthcare access and its potential impact on individuals considering moving to the area, particularly those with COPD. We will examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, providing a COPD Score assessment to help understand the ease of reaching medical appointments and receiving necessary care.

The heart of ZIP Code 35548, Brilliant, Alabama, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access. Its rural nature means residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary artery for travel is Alabama Highway 195, which snakes through the area, connecting Brilliant to neighboring towns and cities. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical consideration. For example, a trip to the nearest major hospital, Northwest Medical Center in Winfield, typically takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via Highway 195. This drive time can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during inclement weather, which is a frequent occurrence in the area.

Further afield, more specialized care might necessitate travel to larger cities like Tuscaloosa or Birmingham. These journeys, however, involve considerably longer drive times. A trip to the University of Alabama Hospital in Tuscaloosa, for instance, can take upwards of an hour and a half, primarily utilizing Highway 195 to Highway 82, then onto Interstate 20/59. Similarly, a drive to Birmingham, home to numerous specialist clinics and hospitals, could exceed two hours, requiring travel on Highway 195, then connecting to Interstate 22 and eventually Interstate 65. These extended travel times pose a significant challenge for individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue during longer car rides.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 35548 are limited. There is no established bus system or fixed-route public transit within Brilliant or the immediate surrounding areas. This lack of public transportation severely restricts healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. Individuals with COPD, who may have mobility limitations or difficulty breathing, face a particularly challenging situation in the absence of readily available public transit.

The absence of public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation options. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The reliability of these services for scheduled medical appointments is a crucial consideration. Booking in advance and confirming availability are essential to ensure timely arrival at healthcare facilities.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide transportation in vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility devices, and they may offer assistance from trained personnel. Several medical transportation providers serve the area, including local ambulance services. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Understanding the availability and cost of medical transportation services is vital for individuals with COPD, as they may require assistance with transfers and transportation.

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 35548 reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services contribute to a moderate score. The lengthy drive times to specialized medical facilities further complicate matters. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options can significantly impact the ability of individuals with COPD to attend appointments, access medications, and receive necessary care.

For individuals considering moving to Brilliant, Alabama, and managing COPD, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Factors to consider include the availability of a reliable vehicle, the ability to drive, and the potential reliance on alternative transportation services. Planning for medical appointments well in advance, considering the potential for weather-related delays, and exploring the availability of medical transportation services are crucial steps.

The healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 35548 presents both opportunities and challenges. While the community offers a close-knit environment and access to local healthcare providers, the limitations in transportation options must be carefully considered. The COPD Score serves as a tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in the area, allowing individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can receive the care they require.