35610, Anderson, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35610, Anderson, Alabama is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

12.62 percent of residents in 35610 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Athens Limestone Hospital with a distance of 19.16 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Anderson, AL (ZIP Code 35610)

The diagnosis of breast cancer introduces a cascade of emotions, anxieties, and a pressing need for timely, quality healthcare. For residents of Anderson, Alabama (ZIP Code 35610), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and recovery is significantly shaped by the available *transportation* options and the proximity of healthcare facilities. This "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the ease of *healthcare access* within this specific geographic area, considering factors beyond just medical expertise. It delves into the practicalities of getting to appointments, the availability of various *transportation* methods, and the potential impact on a patient’s overall well-being, especially for those *moving to Anderson*.

ZIP Code 35610, encompassing the town of Anderson and surrounding areas in Lauderdale County, presents a unique landscape for navigating the complexities of breast cancer care. The rural nature of the region, coupled with limited public *transportation* infrastructure, necessitates a careful evaluation of the available resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals in this community.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of *transportation* for accessing healthcare in Anderson is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars highlights the importance of understanding drive times and the condition of the roadways. Major thoroughfares in the area include US-72, a critical east-west artery, and AL-157, which provides north-south connectivity. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased traffic during peak hours, potentially adding to the stress of a medical appointment.

The nearest major medical centers offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Florence, Alabama. The drive to Helen Keller Hospital in Florence from Anderson, typically a distance of approximately 15-20 miles, takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. The most direct route usually involves taking US-72 West. However, the condition of the roads, and the time of day, can significantly impact the travel time.

For those requiring specialized care, such as advanced imaging or surgical oncology, a referral to a larger facility, such as Huntsville Hospital in Huntsville, Alabama, may be necessary. This journey, approximately 70 miles and taking around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, is primarily via US-72 East and Interstate 65. This longer drive necessitates careful planning, considering factors like gas costs, traffic delays, and the patient's physical condition.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Unfortunately, public *transportation* options in Anderson and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the ZIP code or providing regular service to Florence or Huntsville. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive due to medical conditions, or have financial constraints.

While there are no fixed-route buses, some counties and municipalities may offer demand-response *transportation* services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, availability and eligibility requirements vary, and these services often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs. The absence of robust public *transportation* significantly reduces the *healthcare access* options, especially for those *moving to Anderson* without personal vehicles. The lack of ADA-compliant features further exacerbates this issue for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Florence area and may be an option for some residents of Anderson. However, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas, can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or lengthy trips to Huntsville.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical *transportation* (NEMT) services. These services typically offer door-to-door *transportation* with trained personnel and may accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

However, the availability of medical *transportation* services can vary, and it is essential to research and book these services in advance. The cost of medical *transportation* can be covered by some insurance plans, but this coverage varies depending on the policy and the specific medical necessity of the *transportation*.

**Assessing the Score: A Multifaceted Evaluation**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Anderson, AL (ZIP Code 35610) reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public *transportation* options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services all contribute to the overall assessment.

The score considers the following key elements:

* **Drive Time:** The average time required to reach major medical centers offering breast cancer services, considering traffic conditions and road quality.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence or absence of public bus routes, accessibility features, and the frequency of service.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The presence of ride-sharing services, the availability of medical *transportation* providers, and associated costs.
* **Cost of *Transportation*:** The financial burden associated with accessing healthcare, including gas, ride-sharing fees, and medical *transportation* costs.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible *transportation* options for individuals with disabilities.

**Recommendations and Considerations for those *Moving to Anderson***

For individuals diagnosed with breast cancer or considering *moving to Anderson*, a thorough assessment of *transportation* options is crucial. It is recommended to:

* **Assess Personal *Transportation*:** Evaluate the reliability of your vehicle and the potential cost of fuel and maintenance.
* **Research Ride-Sharing Availability:** Determine the availability of Uber and Lyft drivers in the area and estimate the associated costs.
* **Investigate Medical *Transportation* Options:** Research local medical *transportation* providers, inquire about insurance coverage, and book appointments in advance.
* **Explore Support Networks:** Connect with local support groups and community organizations that may offer assistance with *transportation* or other needs.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** When *moving to Anderson*, prioritize locations with easy access to major roadways and healthcare facilities.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Anderson, AL (ZIP Code 35610) is a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving landscape of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. While the area presents challenges, proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of the available resources can significantly improve the journey for individuals facing breast cancer. This information is crucial for those seeking to navigate the healthcare system and for anyone *moving to Anderson* seeking to understand the local resources.