36401, Evergreen, Alabama COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 36401, Evergreen, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.96 percent of residents in 36401 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Evergreen Medical Center with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Evergreen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36401)

The crisp air of Evergreen, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Conecuh County, offers a slower pace of life, a welcome change for many seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity of rural living necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 36401, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for those requiring regular medical attention. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how easily individuals with COPD can commute to their healthcare appointments, a crucial factor when contemplating moving to Evergreen.

The primary concern for those with COPD is the reliability and accessibility of transportation. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and consistently directly impacts their quality of life and disease management. This score will evaluate the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, factoring in travel times, infrastructure, and the availability of specialized services.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Evergreen is **U.S. Highway 83**, a crucial route connecting the town to surrounding communities. Driving to Evergreen from the north is a relatively straightforward journey along **Highway 83**, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Montgomery, Alabama. Traveling south, **Highway 83** extends towards Brewton, Alabama, and Pensacola, Florida, with a drive time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

**Alabama State Route 113** also plays a vital role, providing an alternative route to the south and connecting Evergreen to Castleberry and surrounding areas. Traveling east and west, **Alabama State Route 10** offers access to communities like Repton and Andalusia. These routes, while generally well-maintained, can present challenges for individuals with COPD. Long stretches of road, potential traffic delays, and the physical exertion of driving can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

The drive times themselves are a significant consideration. The nearest major medical facilities are located in larger cities, such as Mobile, Alabama, approximately a 2-hour drive south via **U.S. Highway 84** and **Interstate 65**. Pensacola, Florida, is also about a 2-hour drive via **U.S. Highway 31** and **Interstate 10**. These longer travel times necessitate careful planning and consideration of the individual’s respiratory capacity.

Public transportation options within Conecuh County are extremely limited. There is no formal public bus system operating within Evergreen or the surrounding areas. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Individuals with COPD who are unable to drive are at a considerable disadvantage, reliant on the generosity of family and friends or more expensive alternatives.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in larger cities like Mobile and Pensacola. However, their presence in Evergreen is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability makes ride-sharing a less-than-ideal option for those with COPD who require scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are a more viable option. Several companies offer these services in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Evergreen, the availability of medical transportation services is a critical factor. It is essential to research the local providers, understand their service areas, and inquire about their rates and accessibility features. This information is crucial for ensuring reliable and convenient transportation to medical appointments.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves is another crucial consideration. Evergreen is home to the Evergreen Medical Center, a smaller facility providing primary care services. However, for specialized care, such as pulmonology or advanced respiratory therapy, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in Mobile or Pensacola. It is essential to verify the availability of specialized services and the ease of access to these facilities.

Furthermore, the physical accessibility of healthcare facilities within Evergreen and the surrounding areas must be assessed. This includes evaluating the availability of ramps, elevators, and accessible parking spaces. The presence of waiting rooms with adequate ventilation and comfortable seating is also vital for individuals with COPD.

The “COPD Score” for transportation and healthcare access in Evergreen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36401), is therefore a mixed bag. While the town offers a tranquil environment, the limited public transit options, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services, and the distance to specialized medical facilities pose significant challenges for individuals with COPD. The reliance on personal vehicles or medical transportation services adds an extra layer of complexity and expense.

However, the presence of medical transportation services and the proximity of the Evergreen Medical Center provide some reassurance. For those considering moving to Evergreen with COPD, a thorough assessment of their individual needs, a careful evaluation of transportation options, and a proactive approach to healthcare planning are essential. This includes researching medical transportation providers, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and understanding the accessibility features of local medical facilities.