35592, Vernon, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35592, Vernon, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.87 percent of residents in 35592 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 16.23 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35592**

Vernon, Alabama, nestled in Lamar County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer screening and treatment. The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 35592 evaluates the ease of transportation to relevant medical facilities, providing prospective residents with a realistic understanding of healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of the journey to care. This analysis is crucial for individuals considering moving to Vernon, as healthcare accessibility significantly impacts quality of life.

The primary factor influencing the Breast Cancer Score is the distance and accessibility to facilities offering mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and radiation therapy. The nearest comprehensive cancer center is in Tuscaloosa, approximately 80 miles south. This distance necessitates a significant commute, primarily along US-43 South. Driving time, under ideal conditions, is roughly one hour and 45 minutes, but traffic, especially around Northport and Tuscaloosa, can easily extend this.

The journey along US-43 South is generally straightforward, though the two-lane configuration in certain areas can lead to delays. The road quality is generally good, but weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can impact travel times. Alternate routes, such as AL-17 South, are available, but they typically add considerable time to the commute due to smaller road sizes and slower speed limits.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in this rural area. There is no established public bus system operating within Lamar County or providing direct service to Tuscaloosa. This lack of public transit severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicle ownership for residents of 35592.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Tuscaloosa area, but their availability in Vernon is sporadic and unreliable. Securing a ride-share for a long-distance trip to Tuscaloosa may be challenging, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning. The cost of ride-sharing for such a distance would also be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the region, but their availability and service areas vary. Booking medical transportation requires advance planning, and services may be limited depending on insurance coverage and the patient's specific needs. These services are often costly, and their availability in Vernon may be limited.

The availability of local healthcare facilities in Vernon itself is another crucial factor. While Vernon does have a local hospital and clinics, these facilities may not offer comprehensive breast cancer services. Routine mammograms might be available, but specialized care, such as surgical oncology or radiation therapy, necessitates travel to larger medical centers. This underscores the importance of understanding the scope of services available locally and the need for transportation to more specialized facilities.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and patient navigation programs can significantly improve the experience of breast cancer patients. The distance to these services, often located in larger cities like Tuscaloosa or Birmingham, can impact the overall quality of care.

The impact of the commute on the overall healthcare experience is substantial. Long travel times can lead to increased stress, fatigue, and missed appointments. This can negatively affect treatment outcomes and overall quality of life. The financial burden of transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees, adds another layer of complexity.

For individuals considering moving to Vernon, understanding the transportation challenges is essential. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a vital tool, offering a clear picture of healthcare access. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact of long commutes on their healthcare journey.

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 35592 reflects a significant challenge in healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services create barriers for many residents. The long distances to specialized medical facilities in Tuscaloosa necessitate careful planning and financial resources.

The absence of readily available public transit and the unreliability of ride-sharing services highlight the importance of personal vehicle ownership. Individuals without access to a car face significant challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive breast cancer care.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for 35592 is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. The distance to specialized medical facilities, the lack of public transit, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. Prospective residents should be fully aware of these challenges before making a move.

The journey to healthcare in Vernon requires careful consideration of transportation logistics. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of planning, resourcefulness, and a realistic understanding of the challenges associated with accessing breast cancer care. This is critical for individuals considering moving to Vernon and for those already residing there.

The limited transportation options in Vernon necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare access. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available services, plan their appointments carefully, and consider the financial implications of transportation costs.

The Breast Cancer Score serves as a crucial indicator of healthcare access in ZIP Code 35592. It underscores the importance of understanding the transportation challenges and proactively addressing them to ensure timely and comprehensive breast cancer care.