35572, Houston, Alabama COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 35572, Houston, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.28 percent of residents in 35572 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lakeland Community Hospital with a distance of 21.43 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 35572

The journey to healthcare, a critical aspect of life, takes on heightened significance for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Residents of ZIP Code 35572, a region where the air often holds a distinct character, face unique challenges in accessing timely and appropriate medical care. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape of 35572, assessing its impact on healthcare access and providing a COPD Score based on the availability and efficacy of various transportation options.

The COPD Score, in this context, isn’t a medical metric but a reflection of the ease with which individuals with COPD can reach healthcare facilities. It weighs factors such as drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The aim is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the transportation ecosystem, empowering residents of 35572 to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

For those reliant on personal vehicles, understanding the road network is paramount. ZIP Code 35572 is primarily served by a network of local roads, with the main artery being **Highway 78**. This highway provides access to nearby towns and cities where healthcare facilities are located. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. **Highway 195** and **County Road 10** also offer alternative routes, though they may involve navigating winding roads and potential delays. Drive times to the nearest hospitals, such as **Walker Baptist Medical Center** in Jasper, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP Code. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, further complicates travel for individuals with COPD, who may experience exacerbated respiratory symptoms.

Public transportation options in 35572 are limited. The availability of buses or other forms of public transit is minimal, posing a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The absence of reliable public transit necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transportation, which can be costly and time-consuming. The lack of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, such as ramps or designated seating, further restricts accessibility for those with mobility limitations, making it exceedingly difficult to reach healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a potentially viable alternative, though their availability can fluctuate. The cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services in 35572 may be variable, potentially leading to delays or cancellations, which can be particularly problematic for individuals with COPD who require consistent medical attention. The time to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours, can also be a significant factor.

Specialized medical transport services are another crucial element. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering transportation in vehicles equipped with necessary medical equipment and trained personnel. Companies such as **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Care Ambulance Service** may operate in the area, providing transport to and from medical appointments. However, these services often come with a higher price tag, and their availability may depend on insurance coverage and scheduling constraints.

The overall COPD Score for 35572, considering the factors outlined above, is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, presents significant challenges. The variability in ride-sharing availability and the cost of specialized medical transport further complicate the picture. While the presence of **Highway 78** provides a direct route to healthcare facilities, traffic and road conditions can impede travel.

For individuals considering moving to Houston, this analysis provides valuable insights. While Houston itself boasts a more robust transportation infrastructure, understanding the healthcare access challenges in surrounding areas, such as 35572, is crucial. The availability of healthcare facilities and the ease of transportation should be key considerations.

The COPD Score is not static; it is subject to change. Improvements in public transportation, increased ride-sharing availability, and the expansion of specialized medical transport services could significantly improve the score, enhancing healthcare access for residents of 35572. Addressing these transportation limitations is critical to ensuring that individuals with COPD can receive the timely and appropriate medical care they deserve. The health and well-being of the community depend on it.