35136, Rockford, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35136, Rockford, Alabama is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.82 percent of residents in 35136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russell Medical Center with a distance of 19.64 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rockford, Alabama (ZIP Code 35136)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, is fraught with anxieties. Beyond the medical complexities, the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access* become paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for residents of Rockford, Alabama (ZIP Code 35136), focusing on the crucial element of mobility. It's a guide for those already living here and a vital consideration for anyone *moving to Rockford*.

Rockford, nestled in Coosa County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents challenges in accessing specialized medical care. This analysis examines the available *transportation* options, weighing their strengths and weaknesses in the context of breast cancer treatment, which often necessitates frequent appointments, including diagnostic tests, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative *transportation* solutions.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary route for accessing specialized breast cancer care from Rockford is by car. Birmingham, approximately 60 miles northwest, is the nearest metropolitan hub with comprehensive medical facilities. The most direct route involves traveling on US Highway 280 West. The drive typically takes between one hour and fifteen minutes and one hour and forty-five minutes, depending on traffic conditions, which can be unpredictable, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Another option is to utilize Alabama State Route 22 West, which leads to US Highway 280. This route is slightly longer in mileage, and the drive time is about the same, but the roads are less congested, and the scenery is more scenic. However, both routes are subject to the vagaries of weather and road closures, potentially extending travel times significantly.

Driving to Montgomery, approximately 70 miles southwest, presents a different set of challenges. The primary route is via US Highway 231 South, which can be a slower journey due to its two-lane configuration in many areas. Drive times to Montgomery typically range from one hour and thirty minutes to two hours.

The drive times outlined here are estimates. The actual time can be influenced by a variety of factors, including traffic, construction, and weather conditions. For individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, these variations can be a significant source of stress and logistical difficulty.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public *transportation* options in Rockford and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. Coosa County does not have a dedicated public transit system. The nearest public transit options are in Birmingham and Montgomery, which are not easily accessible from Rockford.

Even if public transit were available, it would likely be impractical for many breast cancer patients. The frequent appointments, the need for timely arrivals, and the potential for physical limitations associated with treatment make relying on public transit a significant challenge. ADA-compliant features on buses, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are essential but may not fully address the needs of all patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Birmingham and Montgomery areas, but their presence in Rockford is less reliable. Availability can be inconsistent, and the cost can be substantial, especially for frequent trips. Furthermore, the drivers may not be familiar with the specific needs of patients undergoing breast cancer treatment.

Medical *transportation* services offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility needs. Several medical *transportation* companies operate in the Birmingham and Montgomery areas. However, their availability in Rockford and the associated costs should be carefully investigated. Some medical *transportation* brands to explore include: American Medical Response (AMR), MedStar, and Care Ambulance.

**The Breast Cancer Score: Assessing the Reality**

Based on the analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score" for *healthcare access* in Rockford (35136) is moderately low. The reliance on personal *transportation* creates a significant burden for patients. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate the challenges.

The score is influenced by several factors. The drive times to Birmingham and Montgomery are substantial, adding to the stress and fatigue of treatment. The lack of readily available public transit and the potential cost and availability issues with ride-sharing services limit the options for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For residents of Rockford diagnosed with breast cancer, careful planning is essential. Establishing a support network of family and friends who can assist with *transportation* is crucial. Researching medical *transportation* services and understanding their costs and availability is also vital.

For those *moving to Rockford* and considering their *healthcare access* options, the *transportation* limitations should be a significant factor in the decision-making process. Proximity to major medical centers, the availability of reliable *transportation*, and the potential for support from family and friends should be carefully weighed.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a definitive judgment but a starting point for understanding the complexities of accessing healthcare in Rockford. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, community support, and a realistic assessment of the *transportation* challenges involved in navigating the journey through breast cancer treatment. The ability to overcome these obstacles can significantly impact the patient's well-being and the overall quality of their care.