35223, Birmingham, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35223, Birmingham, Alabama is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.54 percent of residents in 35223 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brookwood Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 2.50 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 35223

Considering a move to Birmingham, Alabama, and specifically ZIP code 35223? Understanding healthcare access, particularly for a critical illness like breast cancer, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options to key medical facilities, offering insights into the ease of navigating the healthcare landscape. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, giving you a comprehensive view of healthcare access.

The foundation of our assessment lies in the journey to the region's leading cancer treatment centers. The proximity and accessibility of these facilities are crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. We'll examine how residents of 35223 can reach these vital resources, considering the various transportation options available.

The geographic heart of 35223 offers a mixed bag of transportation options. The area is primarily residential, with pockets of commercial activity. The main arteries for vehicular movement are **Interstate 65 (I-65)**, the primary north-south corridor, and **U.S. Highway 31 (US-31)**, which runs parallel to I-65. **Cahaba Valley Road (Highway 119)** provides east-west access, connecting the area to other parts of Birmingham.

Drive times are subject to traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. A drive from the center of 35223 to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, a major cancer treatment center, could range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic congestion on I-65 or US-31. The drive to St. Vincent's Birmingham, another significant healthcare provider, might be slightly shorter, averaging 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific location within 35223 and traffic on **Highway 280** or local roads.

Public transportation, while available, presents a more complex picture. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), operating as MAX, provides bus services. Several routes service the 35223 area, including routes that connect to downtown Birmingham and UAB Hospital. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

The MAX bus system offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, navigating the bus system requires careful planning, as transfers may be necessary to reach specific medical facilities. The journey by bus to UAB Hospital could take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on the specific route and transfer times.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation solution. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering greater flexibility compared to public transit. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand, distance, and time of day. A ride to UAB Hospital from 35223 could cost between $20 and $40, depending on traffic and surge pricing.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several companies operate in the Birmingham area, including First Choice Medical Transportation and MedRide. These services require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 35223 will consider these factors. We assess the accessibility of key medical facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and the availability of alternative transportation services. The score will reflect the overall ease of accessing breast cancer-related healthcare services from various locations within the ZIP code.

The score will also consider the availability of support services, such as cancer support groups and patient navigators, which can significantly enhance the patient experience. These resources are often located within or near major medical facilities, making transportation a crucial factor in accessing them.

For individuals considering moving to Birmingham, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is critical. The 35223 ZIP code offers a blend of transportation options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The quality of healthcare access is a significant factor when moving to a new city. The ability to reach medical facilities quickly and efficiently is essential, especially for those facing a serious illness like breast cancer. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable tool for assessing this crucial aspect of community well-being.

The analysis emphasizes the importance of planning. While ride-sharing and medical transport offer convenience, they come with associated costs. Public transit, while more affordable, requires careful route planning and consideration of travel times.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a definitive ranking but a guide. It highlights the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, encouraging individuals to explore their options and make informed choices.

The score will also consider the availability of specialized cancer centers and treatment options. The proximity of these facilities and the ease of access are crucial factors in the overall assessment.

The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of healthcare accessibility in 35223. This information is essential for anyone considering a move to the area, especially those with a history of breast cancer or other health concerns. The score will be updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure and healthcare services.

The assessment will also consider the availability of parking at medical facilities. Parking availability can significantly impact the ease of access, particularly for those with mobility issues.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 35223 reflects the reality of navigating healthcare in a suburban environment. It acknowledges the reliance on personal vehicles while highlighting the potential of public transit and alternative transportation options. It is a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, designed to provide clarity and empower informed decision-making.