35565, Haleyville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35565, Haleyville, Alabama is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.18 percent of residents in 35565 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lakeland Community Hospital with a distance of 0.73 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35565**

Haleyville, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Winston County, presents a unique landscape for residents navigating healthcare access, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis delves into the transportation challenges and opportunities within ZIP code 35565, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Haleyville.

The journey to healthcare often begins with the simple act of leaving home. For residents of Haleyville, this often means relying on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for transportation are US Highway 278, which runs east-west, and Alabama Highway 195, a north-south route. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or due to accidents. The rural nature of the area also means that distances to specialized medical facilities are often significant, adding to the time and stress of appointments.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and cancer treatment centers are critical factors in the Breast Cancer Score. The closest hospital, Lakeland Community Hospital in Haleyville, offers some basic services, but specialized oncology care is typically sought elsewhere. Driving to the Cullman Regional Medical Center, approximately 45 miles east via US-278, can take around an hour, depending on traffic. This journey is often necessary for comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Further afield, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, a major cancer treatment center, is approximately 85 miles southeast, a drive of around two hours via US-278 and I-65. This distance necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges these drive times, factoring in the impact of distance on a patient's physical and emotional well-being. The longer the commute, the lower the score.

Public transportation options in Haleyville and Winston County are limited. There is no established bus system or train service that provides direct routes to major medical facilities. This lack of public transit significantly impacts those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. For individuals with mobility challenges, the absence of accessible public transportation further exacerbates the difficulties in accessing healthcare. The Breast Cancer Score reflects this limitation, penalizing the lack of accessible and reliable public transit options.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, is another crucial element. While these services are becoming increasingly common in urban areas, their presence in rural communities like Haleyville is often limited. Ride-sharing availability can be sporadic, and wait times can be lengthy, making it an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments. The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, recognizing their potential to bridge the transportation gap.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Companies like First Medical Transportation or Medical Transport Services may operate in the area, but their availability and cost can vary. The Breast Cancer Score assesses the presence of these services, considering their accessibility, affordability, and the types of services offered.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the impact of transportation on the overall quality of life for breast cancer patients. Frequent trips to medical facilities for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care can be physically and emotionally draining. Long commutes can lead to increased fatigue, stress, and anxiety, potentially impacting treatment outcomes. The score acknowledges the importance of reducing transportation burdens to improve patient well-being.

For those considering moving to Haleyville, the Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable perspective on healthcare access. It highlights the transportation challenges and encourages prospective residents to assess their individual needs and resources. Individuals with existing health conditions or those seeking specialized medical care should carefully evaluate the availability of transportation options and the potential impact of long commutes.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static measure; it can fluctuate based on various factors. The development of new roads, the expansion of public transit options, or the increased availability of ride-sharing services can all improve the score. Similarly, changes in the availability of medical transport services or the opening of new healthcare facilities can also affect the score.

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 35565 reflects the reality of healthcare access in a rural community. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the transportation challenges pose significant obstacles for those battling breast cancer. By understanding these challenges, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and advocate for improved transportation options. The score serves as a tool for assessing the landscape and identifying areas for improvement, ultimately aiming to enhance healthcare access and improve the lives of breast cancer patients in Haleyville and beyond. The final score will be determined based on a weighted average of the factors discussed, with drive times and the availability of specialized transportation services carrying the most weight.