35548, Brilliant, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35548, Brilliant, Alabama is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.32 percent of residents in 35548 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Medical Center with a distance of 7.74 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 35548

The journey to healthcare, especially for a critical diagnosis like breast cancer, is multifaceted. It involves not just the medical expertise available, but also the practicalities of getting there. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 35548, encompassing Brilliant, Alabama, to assess its "Breast Cancer Score" – a measure of healthcare access considering transportation challenges. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the real-world hurdles and opportunities for those seeking breast cancer care.

Brilliant, nestled in Marion County, presents unique transportation challenges. The town’s rural setting means residents often rely heavily on personal vehicles. This dependence, coupled with limited public transit, significantly impacts healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score here is, therefore, heavily influenced by the ease with which individuals can reach crucial medical appointments, from initial screenings to ongoing treatments.

Drive times are paramount. The closest comprehensive cancer care facilities are primarily located in larger cities like Birmingham, approximately 100 miles southeast, or Tuscaloosa, roughly 80 miles south. Driving to Birmingham, a journey primarily via **Highway 78 East** and then **I-22 East**, could take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic. This commute time is a considerable burden, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, who may need frequent visits.

Reaching Tuscaloosa involves a trip on **Highway 43 South** and then **Highway 82 East**. This route, too, is lengthy, potentially taking over an hour and a half. The time spent traveling, the cost of fuel, and the physical toll of the drive can all negatively impact a patient’s ability to consistently receive the care they need. The lack of immediate access to specialized care in Brilliant underscores the importance of understanding these transportation limitations.

Public transit options in and around 35548 are extremely limited. There are no established bus routes that directly connect Brilliant to larger cities with cancer centers. This absence of reliable public **transportation** significantly restricts **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The lack of public options disproportionately affects the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities, potentially delaying or preventing them from receiving timely and essential breast cancer care.

While dedicated public transit is absent, exploring potential solutions is crucial. Investigating the feasibility of a demand-response system, perhaps through a county-operated or contracted service, could offer a lifeline. Such a system, utilizing smaller vans or accessible vehicles, could provide door-to-door **transportation** for medical appointments. This would require careful planning, funding, and community collaboration, but the impact on the Breast Cancer Score could be substantial.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are another potential avenue. However, their availability in rural areas like Brilliant is often unpredictable. Even if these services are available, the cost of a ride to Birmingham or Tuscaloosa could be prohibitive for many. The fluctuating prices and potential for surge pricing further complicate the equation.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and various local ambulance services may provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and their availability may be limited depending on the patient’s insurance coverage and the service’s capacity.

The Breast Cancer Score for 35548 is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare resources. While Brilliant may have primary care physicians, the absence of oncologists, radiologists, and specialized breast cancer treatment centers necessitates travel. This lack of local options further emphasizes the importance of accessible and affordable **transportation**.

The ability to navigate these **transportation** hurdles directly impacts the quality of care a patient receives. Delays in diagnosis and treatment, due to difficulties in reaching medical facilities, can significantly affect outcomes. The stress and anxiety associated with long commutes can also negatively impact a patient’s well-being, hindering their ability to cope with the disease.

Improving the Breast Cancer Score in 35548 requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes advocating for increased public **transportation** options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and expanding access to medical **transportation**. Community outreach programs, educating residents about available resources and assistance programs, are also crucial.

Furthermore, the development of telemedicine services could play a vital role. Remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to educational materials can reduce the need for frequent travel. Telemedicine, however, relies on reliable internet access, which may be another challenge in rural areas.

The ideal scenario would involve a combination of these solutions, tailored to the specific needs of the community. This could include a subsidized demand-response **transportation** service, partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, and expanded telemedicine capabilities.

The Breast Cancer Score for 35548 is not simply a number; it reflects the real-life struggles of individuals facing a serious illness. By acknowledging the **transportation** challenges and actively seeking solutions, the community can work towards improving **healthcare access** and ensuring that residents of Brilliant have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care.

Moving to Brilliant means understanding the current landscape and actively participating in efforts to improve the **transportation** infrastructure and healthcare resources. This commitment to community well-being is essential for fostering a supportive environment for those battling breast cancer. The goal is to transform the current reality into a more accessible and compassionate one, ensuring that everyone has the chance to fight this disease with dignity and the best possible chance of recovery.