35582, Red Bay, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35582, Red Bay, Alabama is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.44 percent of residents in 35582 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Red Bay Hospital with a distance of 1.41 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Red Bay, Alabama (ZIP Code 35582)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, is more than a medical appointment; it's a test of resilience, resourcefulness, and access. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Red Bay, Alabama (ZIP Code 35582), evaluating the landscape of transportation and healthcare access, crucial factors for anyone considering moving to this community or already residing within it. Understanding these elements is paramount, shaping the quality of life and the potential for positive health outcomes.

Red Bay, nestled in the heart of Franklin County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town’s relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. This assessment considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport to determine the ease with which residents can reach essential breast cancer care.

The cornerstone of any transportation analysis is the road network. For Red Bay residents, navigating to specialized breast cancer care often begins on **Alabama State Route 24**, the primary east-west artery. This road connects Red Bay to larger regional hubs, including Russellville to the east, where some healthcare options may exist. The journey to Russellville, a drive of approximately 35 miles, typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Traveling south on **U.S. Highway 43**, another crucial route, provides access to more extensive healthcare facilities in the city of Tupelo, Mississippi. This trip, approximately 60 miles, can take up to an hour and fifteen minutes, highlighting the geographical limitations faced by Red Bay residents.

Further afield, the city of Birmingham, Alabama, presents a wider array of specialized breast cancer treatment centers. However, the drive is considerable, spanning approximately 150 miles and requiring a minimum of two and a half hours, a significant time commitment for frequent appointments.

Public transportation options in Red Bay are limited. Franklin County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of public transit significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations or those unable to drive due to their health condition. This deficiency underscores the critical importance of alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, although their reliability and availability in Red Bay may be inconsistent. The prevalence of ride-sharing services is often dependent on driver density and demand. Residents should not rely solely on these services, particularly for time-sensitive medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive themselves. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transport in the area, including ambulance services and private transportation providers. These services are often geared towards individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance with transportation. Costs vary depending on the distance, the type of service, and the specific provider.

The availability of these services is critical for breast cancer patients who may need frequent transportation for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other treatments. The need for reliable and accessible medical transport is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score.

Healthcare access is a multifaceted concept. The closest hospital to Red Bay is North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, Mississippi. This facility offers comprehensive medical services, including oncology departments. However, the drive time, as previously mentioned, presents a barrier to easy access.

Other healthcare facilities in the area include the Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, Alabama, about 60 miles away, and several smaller clinics and physician offices in nearby towns. The availability of specialized breast cancer care, such as surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, will influence the Breast Cancer Score. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and other resources for breast cancer patients also contributes to the overall score.

The Breast Cancer Score for Red Bay, Alabama, takes into account all these factors. It considers the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation. It also considers the availability of specialized breast cancer care, support services, and the overall healthcare infrastructure in the region.

The score will be lower for areas with longer drive times, limited public transit, and unreliable ride-sharing options. It will be higher for areas with readily available medical transport, access to specialized care, and a strong network of support services.

For individuals considering moving to Red Bay, the Breast Cancer Score provides valuable insights. It helps them understand the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer care in the area. It allows potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and to assess the overall quality of life in the community.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score is a tool for empowerment. It encourages residents to advocate for improved healthcare access and to work towards creating a healthier community. It highlights the importance of transportation, healthcare access, and the need for a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care in Red Bay, Alabama.