35035, Brierfield, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35035, Brierfield, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.57 percent of residents in 35035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bibb Medical Center with a distance of 12.92 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brierfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35035)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a critical diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex one. It's not merely about the quality of medical professionals; it’s about **healthcare access**, the ability to reach those professionals efficiently and reliably. This write-up delves into the **transportation** landscape surrounding breast cancer care for residents of Brierfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35035), aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, a practical guide for anyone **moving to Brierfield** or seeking care in the area.

Brierfield, a small town nestled in Bibb County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing specialized medical services. The rural nature of the area means residents often face longer travel times and fewer options than those living in more urban environments. This is especially crucial when considering the urgency and frequency of appointments related to breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The cornerstone of **transportation** in Brierfield and the surrounding region is the automobile. Driving is, by far, the most common mode of getting around. The primary arteries connecting Brierfield to larger towns and cities with comprehensive medical facilities are Highway 25 and Highway 139. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, especially in the vicinity of Centreville, the Bibb County seat, and further afield towards larger cities like Birmingham.

For breast cancer patients, the drive to Birmingham, approximately 45-60 miles northeast, is often unavoidable. Birmingham boasts the most advanced cancer centers, including UAB Medicine, known for its comprehensive breast cancer programs. The most direct route involves taking Highway 25 North to Interstate 65 North. Expect drive times to range from one hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and the specific location within Birmingham.

The drive to Tuscaloosa, approximately 50-60 miles southwest, offers another option, though with fewer specialized cancer centers. The route primarily involves Highway 139 South to Highway 82 West, and then to Interstate 20/59 North. This journey can take roughly the same amount of time as the trip to Birmingham.

The condition of the roads themselves also plays a role. Highway 25 and Highway 139 are generally in good condition, but during inclement weather, such as heavy rain or ice, travel can become hazardous. This is a significant consideration for patients undergoing treatment, who may be more susceptible to the effects of weather-related delays.

Public **transportation** options in Brierfield are severely limited. Bibb County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive, do not own a vehicle, or are unable to drive due to their medical condition or treatment side effects. This is a major factor impacting the "Breast Cancer Score" for Brierfield.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for patients, particularly those undergoing long-term treatment.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, are available, though their presence in Brierfield is limited. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including transportation to and from appointments, and can be particularly helpful for patients who require assistance with mobility or other needs. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be restricted.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Brierfield, therefore, reflects the challenges associated with **transportation** and **healthcare access**. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the lack of public transit, creates a situation where patients face significant travel times and potential financial burdens. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers some relief, but their limitations must be considered.

For individuals **moving to Brierfield** and those seeking breast cancer care, a thorough assessment of **transportation** needs is crucial. This includes evaluating the reliability of personal vehicles, the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical **transportation**, and the ability to manage long travel times.

The distance to Birmingham and Tuscaloosa, while offering access to specialized medical care, also presents challenges. Patients may need to arrange for lodging near the treatment center, especially during radiation therapy or chemotherapy. This adds to the overall cost of care and can create emotional and logistical burdens.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Brierfield is not solely determined by the availability of medical facilities. It is also influenced by the infrastructure that connects residents to those facilities. In this case, the limited public **transportation** options and the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for traffic and weather-related delays, contribute to a lower score.

The development of accessible and affordable **transportation** options is essential to improve **healthcare access** in Brierfield and similar rural communities. This could include exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized rides for patients, or advocating for the expansion of medical **transportation** services in the area.

Furthermore, community support systems are vital. This could include volunteer driver programs, carpooling initiatives, or support groups that offer assistance with **transportation** needs. These community-based solutions can help bridge the gap in **healthcare access** and improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients in Brierfield.

In conclusion, while Brierfield offers a peaceful environment, the "Breast Cancer Score" for the area is negatively impacted by the limitations in **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of public transit pose significant challenges for accessing specialized medical care. While ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provide some relief, their limitations must be carefully considered. For those **moving to Brierfield** or seeking care, a proactive approach to planning **transportation** and seeking support is essential to ensure timely and reliable access to life-saving breast cancer treatment.