35580, Parrish, Alabama COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 35580, Parrish, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.13 percent of residents in 35580 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 31.66 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Parrish, Alabama (ZIP Code 35580)

Parrish, Alabama, a town nestled in Walker County, offers a tranquil setting for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the availability and accessibility of healthcare are paramount. This "COPD Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape in ZIP code 35580, specifically focusing on healthcare access for residents. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport solutions, providing a comprehensive overview for individuals considering moving to Parrish or seeking improved healthcare access.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in Parrish is the distance to medical facilities. The nearest hospital, Walker Baptist Medical Center, is located in Jasper, approximately 12 miles away. Driving this distance typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. The most direct route involves traveling east on US Highway 78, a major thoroughfare connecting Parrish to Jasper. This highway is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be heavier during peak commuting hours.

Alternative routes exist, such as utilizing County Road 22 and then connecting to US Highway 78. However, these roads are often less direct and may involve navigating rural areas with potentially lower speed limits. This could extend the travel time, especially for individuals with COPD who may experience breathing difficulties during longer drives. The condition of the roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also impact the comfort and safety of the journey, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in Parrish are limited. The Walker County Transit System provides demand-response transportation services, requiring advance booking. While this service offers a crucial lifeline for some residents, its availability and scheduling constraints could pose challenges for individuals with COPD needing urgent or frequent medical appointments. The lack of fixed-route bus services within Parrish further limits transportation independence, especially for those unable to drive or reliant on family members for assistance.

The Walker County Transit System is required to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible vehicles and trained drivers. This is crucial for individuals with COPD who may require assistance with boarding and disembarking, as well as those using mobility aids. However, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and the waiting times associated with demand-response services should be carefully considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jasper area, including Parrish. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Individuals with COPD should factor in the potential cost and reliability of ride-sharing when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transportation services are also an option for residents of Parrish. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) can provide door-to-door service for medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who require assistance with mobility. However, the availability of NEMT services and the associated costs vary. Residents should research and compare different providers to find the most suitable and affordable option.

The availability of specialized medical transport services, such as ambulance services, is also crucial for individuals with COPD who may experience acute respiratory distress. The response time of emergency medical services is a critical factor in ensuring timely access to emergency care. Residents should be aware of the location of the nearest emergency medical facilities and the estimated response times in their area.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Parrish, the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access are vital factors. The drive time to Walker Baptist Medical Center, the primary hospital, is relatively short. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or demand-response public transit limits transportation independence. The inconsistent availability and cost of ride-sharing services and the need to book in advance for public transit pose potential challenges.

The lack of fixed-route bus services within Parrish further underscores the importance of personal vehicles or reliance on family members for transportation. The availability of ADA-compliant services through the Walker County Transit System is a positive factor, but potential waiting times and booking requirements should be carefully considered.

The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, can significantly impact healthcare access. Individuals with COPD often require frequent medical appointments, and the cumulative cost of transportation can be substantial. Residents should budget for transportation expenses and explore potential financial assistance programs.

The availability of home healthcare services can also mitigate transportation challenges. Home healthcare allows individuals with COPD to receive medical care in their homes, reducing the need for frequent trips to medical facilities. Residents should investigate the availability of home healthcare services in Parrish and the associated costs.

The overall "COPD Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Parrish, Alabama (ZIP code 35580) is moderate. While the drive time to the nearest hospital is relatively short, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the need to book in advance for demand-response services present challenges. Individuals with COPD considering moving to Parrish should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore all available options to ensure they can access the healthcare services they require.