35111, Mc Calla, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35111, Mc Calla, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.60 percent of residents in 35111 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical West, An Affiliate Of Uab Health System with a distance of 8.14 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35111 (Mc Calla, Alabama)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for critical needs like breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is a complex equation. It's not simply about the availability of medical professionals; it’s about the ease, the reliability, and the affordability of getting there. This analysis explores the landscape of transportation options for residents of ZIP code 35111, Mc Calla, Alabama, focusing on access to breast cancer-related healthcare. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial elements in determining a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the reality of healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Mc Calla, as transportation significantly impacts quality of life and health outcomes.

Mc Calla, a growing community, is primarily served by personal vehicles. The major thoroughfares are Interstate 20 (I-20), the primary east-west artery, and Alabama Highway 150, a crucial north-south route. Smaller roads like Mc Calla Road and Eastern Valley Road provide local connectivity. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic, especially during peak hours. The Breast Cancer Score must consider these variables.

For breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, residents of 35111 often seek care in Birmingham, approximately 20-30 minutes away via I-20, depending on traffic. This drive time is manageable for routine appointments, but it becomes a significant factor for frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. The stress of commuting, especially when feeling unwell, can negatively impact a patient's overall well-being.

The nearest comprehensive cancer centers, offering multidisciplinary care, are located in Birmingham. The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital and St. Vincent's Birmingham are major providers. The drive to these facilities, via I-20, can be extended to 45 minutes or more during rush hour. The Breast Cancer Score must account for these extended travel times.

Public transportation options are limited in Mc Calla. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, provides bus service, but the routes serving Mc Calla are infrequent and may not directly reach all healthcare facilities. The MAX system’s routes are not designed to serve the needs of the 35111 zip code.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. MAX offers accessible buses on all routes, but the longer travel times and potential for transfers can be a significant barrier for patients undergoing treatment. The Breast Cancer Score needs to reflect the limitations of public transit for this population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing can also be a concern, especially during inclement weather or at off-peak hours.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, are available, but they come with a higher price tag. These services are often used for patients who are unable to drive themselves or who require assistance getting in and out of vehicles. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the cost of medical transport as a factor limiting healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Mc Calla, the Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable perspective. It highlights the dependence on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport are also crucial considerations. Prospective residents should factor in the time, cost, and potential stress associated with accessing healthcare services.

The Breast Cancer Score for 35111 is, therefore, a nuanced assessment. While the proximity to Birmingham offers access to excellent medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport create challenges.

The score is affected by traffic congestion on I-20 and Alabama Highway 150, especially during peak hours. The absence of direct, frequent public transit routes to major healthcare facilities is another factor. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport further impacts the score, potentially creating financial barriers for some patients.

The Breast Cancer Score isn't just a number; it's a reflection of the lived experience of individuals navigating the healthcare system. It underscores the importance of considering transportation when assessing healthcare access. It highlights the need for continued efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing options, and make medical transport more affordable.

For residents of 35111, and for those considering moving to Mc Calla, understanding the Breast Cancer Score is essential. It informs decisions about where to live, how to manage healthcare appointments, and how to advocate for improved transportation options. It is a crucial component in the larger picture of healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score for Mc Calla, Alabama, is a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about the availability of medical professionals and facilities. It's about the ability to get there, reliably and affordably. This is a critical consideration for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis or treatment.