35550, Cordova, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35550, Cordova, Alabama is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.41 percent of residents in 35550 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Walker Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 7.39 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Cordova, Alabama (ZIP Code 35550)**

Considering a move to Cordova, Alabama (ZIP Code 35550)? This assessment delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on breast cancer care, and the transportation options available to navigate the journey. Understanding the commute to healthcare, especially for potentially life-saving screenings and treatments, is paramount for informed decision-making. This report analyzes the existing infrastructure and available services, providing a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation accessibility.

The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities residents face when seeking breast cancer care, facilitating a well-informed choice for those considering a move to Cordova. The score is not a definitive judgment, but rather a tool to help assess the ease of accessing healthcare, a critical factor for anyone, particularly those with pre-existing health concerns or a family history of breast cancer.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Cordova, nestled in Walker County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are US-78 and AL-102. Accessing specialized breast cancer care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in Birmingham, approximately 40 miles away.

The drive to Birmingham, via US-78, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, particularly weekdays, can significantly extend travel times. AL-102 provides an alternative route, but is generally less direct and may involve navigating smaller roads. The condition of these roads is generally good, but potential for delays due to construction or accidents always exists.

Traffic conditions are a significant consideration. The "Breast Cancer Score" will reflect the impact of potential delays on these crucial journeys. The time spent in transit directly affects the ability to access timely screenings, appointments, and treatments. This is a crucial aspect of healthcare access.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in Cordova and the surrounding areas are limited. Walker County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. The lack of a robust public transportation infrastructure presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The absence of regular bus routes necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation. This significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score," as it reduces the accessibility for those who are transportation-disadvantaged. The lack of public transit also affects the elderly and those with disabilities, who may find it difficult to access healthcare facilities without assistance.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability can vary. The frequency of service may be less reliable compared to larger metropolitan areas, potentially leading to longer wait times or higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they can be costly and may require advance booking. The availability of these services and their associated costs are factors considered in the "Breast Cancer Score."

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible transportation is a critical concern. The lack of public transit options, combined with the potential limitations of ride-sharing services, can create significant challenges for those with mobility impairments.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the availability of accessible vehicles and the ease of accessing medical facilities for individuals with disabilities. This includes evaluating the availability of ramps, elevators, and other accommodations at both transportation hubs and healthcare facilities.

**Medical Facilities and Breast Cancer Care**

The nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities are located in Birmingham. These facilities offer a full range of services, including screenings, diagnostics, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The distance to these facilities, combined with the transportation challenges described above, influences the "Breast Cancer Score."

The availability of local primary care physicians who can provide referrals for mammograms and other screenings is also a crucial factor. Early detection is critical in breast cancer treatment, and timely access to screenings is essential.

**"Breast Cancer Score" Methodology and Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be calculated based on a weighted system, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facility.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The presence or absence of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Availability:** The availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation options.
* **Local Medical Resources:** The availability of primary care physicians and screening services in the area.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to breast cancer care. The score will also include a narrative summary, highlighting the key strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure in relation to healthcare access.

**Moving to Cordova: A Healthcare Access Perspective**

For those considering moving to Cordova, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the town offers a close-knit community and affordable living, the limited transportation options pose a challenge to healthcare access, particularly for specialized care like breast cancer treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will provide a valuable tool for prospective residents, allowing them to assess the potential impact of transportation challenges on their healthcare needs. It's essential to weigh the benefits of living in Cordova against the potential difficulties of accessing specialized medical care.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 35550 will provide a comprehensive assessment of transportation and healthcare access, specifically for breast cancer care. This report aims to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs when considering a move to Cordova. The score, coupled with the detailed analysis, will serve as a valuable resource for anyone prioritizing healthcare access.