36373, Shorterville, Alabama COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 36373, Shorterville, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.21 percent of residents in 36373 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeast Health Medical Center with a distance of 25.90 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shorterville, Alabama (ZIP Code 36373)

Shorterville, Alabama, a community nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This assessment, the "COPD Score," delves into the critical factors impacting healthcare access within ZIP code 36373, specifically focusing on transportation options. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and support services directly influences the quality of life for COPD patients, making transportation a pivotal element in their overall well-being.

The very essence of this score weighs heavily on the ability to traverse the terrain. Driving times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services are meticulously examined. This information provides a comprehensive understanding of the practical hurdles and advantages faced by individuals with COPD seeking healthcare in Shorterville.

The landscape of Shorterville, while charming, presents a transportation tapestry woven with rural threads. The primary route to larger healthcare centers is predominantly reliant on personal vehicles. Residents typically utilize **Highway 431** as the main artery, which connects Shorterville to the larger cities of Dothan and Eufaula. The drive to Southeast Health in Dothan, a regional medical hub, can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, reaching Medical Center Barbour in Eufaula requires a drive of about 40 to 50 minutes.

Secondary roads, such as **County Road 50**, offer alternative routes, but these often involve slower speeds and potentially less reliable road conditions. Local pharmacies and primary care physicians may be accessible within Shorterville itself, thus minimizing travel time for routine appointments and medication refills. However, specialized care, such as pulmonology or respiratory therapy, often necessitates travel to the larger cities.

Public transportation options in Shorterville are notably limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant barrier for individuals with COPD, particularly those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The availability of any public transit is virtually nonexistent. The lack of public transportation is a major factor in the COPD Score, as it severely restricts healthcare access for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Dothan area, but their presence in Shorterville is less consistent. Their availability is dependent on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be challenging due to potential wait times and the fluctuating costs associated with these services. The reliability of ride-sharing is another critical element in the COPD Score.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients with mobility limitations, offer a more specialized solution. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who require assistance with mobility. While medical transport offers a viable option, it often comes with a higher cost compared to personal vehicles or public transit, further impacting the COPD Score.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of support services within the community. Access to respiratory therapists, support groups, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs can significantly improve the management of COPD. The availability of these resources within Shorterville itself, or within a reasonable travel distance, is factored into the overall assessment.

The physical environment of healthcare facilities also plays a crucial role. The presence of accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and other accommodations for individuals with mobility limitations is essential. The COPD Score takes into account the accessibility features of the healthcare facilities in the area, ensuring that patients can navigate these spaces with ease.

For individuals considering moving to Shorterville, the COPD Score provides valuable insights into the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of suitable options. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility may find it challenging to access healthcare in Shorterville.

The COPD Score is not a static measurement; it is a dynamic assessment that can evolve over time. Changes in transportation infrastructure, the introduction of new services, and the expansion of healthcare facilities can all influence the score. The score serves as a baseline assessment, providing a snapshot of the current situation and highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

The overall COPD Score for Shorterville, Alabama (ZIP code 36373) reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. The absence of a robust public transit system and the geographical distances to specialized healthcare facilities are the most significant drawbacks.

The COPD Score is a tool for awareness and advocacy. By understanding the transportation barriers faced by individuals with COPD, communities can work towards creating more accessible and equitable healthcare systems. This may involve advocating for improved public transit, supporting the expansion of ride-sharing services, or encouraging the development of medical transport options.

The ultimate goal of the COPD Score is to empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for the resources they need to live fulfilling lives. It is a call to action, urging communities to prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations and to ensure that healthcare access is not limited by transportation constraints. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and community engagement to improve the quality of life for individuals with COPD in Shorterville and beyond.