35224, Birmingham, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35224, Birmingham, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.69 percent of residents in 35224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Princeton Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 5.20 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 35224

Moving to Birmingham, Alabama, and specifically the 35224 ZIP code, requires a comprehensive understanding of its healthcare landscape, particularly for those concerned about breast cancer. This assessment focuses on the critical element of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**, crafting a "Breast Cancer Score" based on the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical facilities. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, providing a nuanced perspective for potential residents.

The 35224 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Cahaba Heights and parts of Mountain Brook, presents a unique challenge. While offering a desirable suburban lifestyle, its proximity to specialized medical centers is crucial. The Breast Cancer Score will consider factors like the availability of mammography, oncology, and surgical services.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of **transportation** in this area is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this system hinges on navigating Birmingham's complex road network. Key roadways impacting **healthcare access** include Interstate 459 (I-459), a major loop around the city, and U.S. Highway 280, a vital artery connecting the eastern suburbs to downtown. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, significantly impacts drive times.

For instance, driving from the heart of 35224 to the UAB Medicine Breast Health Center, a leading facility for breast cancer care, typically involves navigating I-459 and then either I-65 or surface streets, depending on the specific location. The drive, under ideal conditions, could take approximately 20-30 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour, impacting appointment adherence and potentially increasing stress levels for patients.

Another critical destination is St. Vincent's East, which also offers comprehensive breast cancer services. Accessing this hospital often involves traversing U.S. Highway 280, a road known for its heavy traffic. The drive time from 35224 to St. Vincent's East can range from 15 to 30 minutes, again depending on traffic flow.

The Breast Cancer Score will reflect these drive-time variations, considering both peak and off-peak travel times to provide a realistic assessment of **healthcare access** via personal vehicle. This score will also account for the availability of parking at each medical facility, a factor that can further influence the overall experience.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

Birmingham's public transit system, operated by the Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), offers an alternative to driving, although its coverage in the 35224 area is limited. Several bus routes serve the general vicinity, but their direct access to specialized breast cancer centers is often indirect.

Route 14, for example, travels along U.S. Highway 280, offering a potential connection to St. Vincent's East. However, the frequency of this route, especially on weekends and evenings, can be a significant barrier. Furthermore, the walk from the bus stop to the hospital may be challenging for some patients.

The BJCTA is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, ensuring that all buses are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes features like wheelchair lifts and priority seating. The Breast Cancer Score will incorporate the availability of these ADA features, recognizing the importance of accessible **transportation** for patients with mobility limitations.

The score will also consider the overall travel time using public transit, including waiting times, transfer times, and walking distances. This will provide a comprehensive comparison between public transit and driving, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions about their **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving and public transit. Their availability in the 35224 area is generally good, with relatively short wait times. The Breast Cancer Score will evaluate the cost-effectiveness of ride-share services, considering the potential financial burden on patients requiring frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the Birmingham area, offering specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. The Breast Cancer Score will include information on the availability and cost of these services, recognizing their importance for patients who cannot drive or utilize public transit.

The score will also assess the insurance coverage for ride-share and medical **transportation** services, as this can significantly impact the affordability of these options. Information on specific medical **transportation** brands operating in the 35224 area will be included, providing potential residents with readily accessible resources.

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

The final Breast Cancer Score for 35224 will be a composite metric, reflecting the ease of **transportation** to breast cancer-related healthcare facilities. It will consider drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-share availability, and medical **transportation** options. The score will also incorporate factors such as the proximity of essential services like pharmacies and imaging centers.

This comprehensive approach aims to provide a realistic and nuanced picture of **healthcare access** for individuals considering **moving to Birmingham**, specifically those concerned about breast cancer. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The score will be updated regularly to reflect changes in traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the availability of **transportation** services. This ensures that the information remains relevant and useful for those seeking to establish a home in the 35224 ZIP code and prioritize their health. This score is a vital tool for those navigating the complexities of **healthcare access** in this vibrant community.