35116, Morris, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35116, Morris, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.56 percent of residents in 35116 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's St Clair with a distance of 29.16 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 35116

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, can be fraught with anxiety. In the context of ZIP Code 35116, encompassing the charming community of Morris, Alabama, the ability to access timely and effective care is paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for individuals residing in or considering moving to Morris. It's a crucial consideration for anyone seeking to establish roots in this community.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all factors that directly influence a patient's ability to attend appointments, receive treatments, and ultimately, navigate their cancer journey. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the logistical realities, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and where they choose to live.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Morris, while offering a sense of rural tranquility, presents certain transportation challenges. The primary arteries for accessing specialized breast cancer care are the major roadways connecting the area to Birmingham, the region's healthcare hub. The most direct route often involves traversing **Interstate 65 (I-65)** south, which is typically a relatively smooth ride, though rush hour traffic can significantly extend travel times.

From Morris, the drive to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, a leading center for cancer treatment, is approximately 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This time frame assumes a departure from the heart of Morris and a clear run on I-65. Other hospitals, such as St. Vincent's Birmingham, may require a similar drive time, utilizing a combination of **Highway 79** and I-65.

During peak commuting hours, the journey can easily stretch beyond an hour, adding stress and potentially delaying crucial appointments. It is imperative to factor in these delays when planning travel. Furthermore, unexpected road closures or accidents on I-65 can drastically alter the commute, necessitating alternative routes like **Highway 79** or local roads, which may add considerable time to the trip.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Morris and the surrounding areas presents a significant limitation for those seeking healthcare access. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, provides bus service throughout the Birmingham metropolitan area, but its reach into Morris is extremely limited.

Currently, there are no direct MAX bus routes serving Morris. The closest bus stops are located in neighboring communities, requiring a significant drive or reliance on ride-sharing services to reach a MAX route. This severely restricts the public transit options for individuals needing regular appointments or treatments.

While MAX buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, the lack of accessibility to Morris itself renders this a moot point for many residents. The absence of robust public transportation is a major factor impacting the Breast Cancer Score, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. However, their availability in Morris can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning and late evening. While they can provide a convenient way to reach appointments, the cost can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent trips.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be booked in advance, ensuring reliable transportation to and from appointments. However, they often come with a higher price tag than ride-sharing services.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport underscores the challenges faced by individuals in Morris who may not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive themselves. The cost and availability of these services directly impact the Breast Cancer Score, emphasizing the importance of considering these factors when evaluating healthcare access.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment:**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 35116 is, therefore, moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the proximity to Birmingham offers access to excellent healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access.

The drive times, while manageable under ideal conditions, are subject to traffic delays that can significantly impact appointment adherence. The lack of reliable public transportation leaves many residents reliant on personal vehicles or costly alternatives. The availability of ride-sharing services is variable, and medical transport services, while reliable, can be expensive.

**Moving to Morris: Considerations for Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Morris, the transportation landscape should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Those with a history of breast cancer, or those at high risk, should carefully evaluate their ability to consistently access healthcare facilities in Birmingham.

The availability of a reliable personal vehicle is almost essential. If this is not possible, the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport services should be factored into the budget. The absence of robust public transit necessitates careful planning and consideration of the logistical challenges associated with attending appointments and receiving treatments.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, while Morris offers a pleasant living environment, the Breast Cancer Score reflects the transportation challenges that residents face in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs associated with alternative transportation services are factors that individuals must carefully consider. For those considering moving to Morris, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements is crucial. This comprehensive evaluation is essential for ensuring timely and effective healthcare, allowing residents to navigate their cancer journey with greater ease and peace of mind. The score is a reminder that healthcare access extends beyond the availability of medical facilities; it encompasses the ability to reach them efficiently and affordably, a vital consideration for anyone seeking to establish roots in the community.