35587, Townley, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35587, Townley, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.01 percent of residents in 35587 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 21.20 miles from the area.

The crimson sun bled across the Alabama sky, painting the rural landscape of ZIP Code 35587, Townley, in hues of fire and rose. For those residing in this quiet corner of Walker County, the serenity of the rolling hills often masked a stark reality: the challenges of **healthcare access**. Should the shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis fall, the journey to treatment, a journey inextricably linked to **transportation**, could become a daunting obstacle.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Townley, as we shall define it, isn't a formal medical metric, but rather a qualitative assessment of the ease with which a resident can reach essential breast cancer care. It encompasses drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This score is crucial information for anyone **moving to Townley**, especially those with a family history or personal concerns about breast health.

The most direct route to specialized breast cancer care from Townley typically involves a drive to Birmingham, the closest metropolitan hub. The primary artery connecting Townley to the city is US-78, a major highway that, while generally well-maintained, can experience heavy traffic during peak hours. The drive to UAB Hospital, a renowned cancer center, is approximately 60 miles, translating to an estimated drive time of one hour and fifteen minutes to one hour and forty-five minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Another option is to travel to Cullman Regional Medical Center, a smaller facility that offers some breast cancer services. This journey, primarily along US-278, is shorter, about 35 miles, with a drive time of roughly 45 minutes to an hour. However, the range of services available at Cullman Regional may be more limited compared to the comprehensive care offered in Birmingham. The choice between these two destinations significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score."

Beyond the highways, the local roads of Townley are often winding and rural. While scenic, these roads can be challenging to navigate, particularly at night or during inclement weather. The condition of these secondary roads, such as County Road 10 and County Road 22, can vary, potentially adding to travel times and posing safety concerns. This is a critical consideration for those who may be undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, which can cause fatigue and other side effects.

Public transit options in Townley are extremely limited, significantly impacting the "Breast Cancer Score." There is no established public bus service within the ZIP code itself. The closest public transit options are in Birmingham, necessitating a complex and time-consuming journey. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), often referred to as MAX, operates a network of bus routes. However, the routes that might be relevant for someone traveling from Townley to Birmingham are often infrequent and may involve multiple transfers.

While the BJCTA does strive to provide ADA-accessible buses, the long travel times and the potential need for multiple transfers can create significant difficulties for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing cancer treatment. The lack of readily available public transit severely diminishes the "Breast Cancer Score" for Townley residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Townley, but their reliability and cost are significant factors. While these services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, their availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of a ride-share to Birmingham can be substantial, potentially placing a financial burden on patients and their families.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, offer another avenue. Several companies operate in the Birmingham area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Townley is further influenced by the availability of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs can be crucial for breast cancer patients. The distance to these resources, often located in Birmingham, adds to the challenges faced by Townley residents.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Townley is moderate to low. While the drive to Birmingham offers access to comprehensive cancer care, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The lack of readily available support services within the community further exacerbates these challenges.

For those **moving to Townley**, it's essential to carefully consider these **transportation** challenges. Prospective residents with a family history of breast cancer or any concerns about their breast health should research the availability of local healthcare providers and assess their ability to manage the travel requirements for regular screenings and treatment.

The journey to healthcare, especially when facing a serious illness like breast cancer, should not be an added burden. Understanding the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** in Townley is a crucial step in ensuring that residents can receive the care they need, when they need it. The "Breast Cancer Score," though not a formal metric, serves as a reminder of the importance of considering these factors when evaluating the quality of life in this beautiful, yet often isolated, corner of Alabama.