35013, Allgood, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35013, Allgood, Alabama is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 35013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 24.60 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35013**

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Blount County, Alabama, ZIP Code 35013 – encompassing the charming community of Allgood – presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis delves into the transportation infrastructure and options available to residents, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities they face in navigating their healthcare journey. Understanding the commute to healthcare is a critical component of the overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for this area, influencing early detection, timely intervention, and ultimately, patient outcomes.

The very fabric of healthcare access in Allgood is interwoven with the practicality of transportation. For residents facing the potential of a breast cancer diagnosis, the ability to reach medical facilities quickly and reliably is paramount. The distance to specialized care, the availability of transportation options, and the time required to travel all contribute to the overall accessibility score.

The primary arteries of travel in this area are US Highway 231 and Alabama Highway 75. These roadways form the backbone of the transportation network, connecting Allgood to larger towns and cities where comprehensive medical services are available. US 231, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides a direct route to Oneonta, the county seat, where a hospital and various medical practices are located. Traveling south on US 231, residents can access Birmingham, the state's largest city, with its numerous hospitals, cancer centers, and specialized clinics.

Alabama Highway 75, running east-west, offers another vital link, connecting Allgood to neighboring communities and providing alternative routes to larger population centers. The drive times along these highways, while seemingly straightforward, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours and on weekends.

For residents without personal vehicles, public transit options are limited. Blount County does not have a comprehensive public transportation system. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. The absence of readily available public transit can exacerbate the challenges of accessing timely medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not always guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a financial burden for those with limited incomes, potentially deterring them from seeking necessary medical attention.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, such as medical transport services, are available in the Birmingham area and may serve residents of Allgood. However, the availability of these services, their coverage area, and the associated costs must be carefully considered.

The terrain and road conditions in Blount County also influence transportation accessibility. The winding roads and hilly landscape can make travel challenging, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those relying on public transit. The condition of the roads, including potholes and lack of sidewalks, can further impact the ease and safety of travel.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Allgood, therefore, must reflect the transportation challenges faced by residents. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation all contribute to the overall score. A low score may indicate significant barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

Healthcare access is not solely about the physical distance to medical facilities. It encompasses the ability to overcome transportation barriers, navigate the healthcare system, and receive timely and appropriate care. In Allgood, the 'Breast Cancer Score' underscores the critical need for improved transportation options, increased awareness of available services, and community-based initiatives to support residents in their healthcare journeys.

Moving to Allgood, or any community, requires a comprehensive understanding of its infrastructure, including its healthcare access. The 'Breast Cancer Score' serves as a vital tool for assessing the challenges and opportunities within the community, highlighting the importance of transportation in ensuring equitable healthcare for all residents.