35640, Hartselle, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35640, Hartselle, Alabama is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.98 percent of residents in 35640 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Decatur Morgan Hospital - Decatur Campus with a distance of 10.15 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hartselle, Alabama (ZIP Code 35640)

Considering a move to Hartselle, Alabama (ZIP Code 35640), and concerned about breast cancer healthcare access? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" by evaluating transportation options to key medical facilities. We’ll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive picture of your healthcare accessibility in this community. This information is vital for anyone prioritizing healthcare access when making a relocation decision.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn’t a formal medical assessment. Instead, it reflects the ease of accessing crucial breast cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Factors considered include the distance and time required to reach facilities, the availability and reliability of various transportation options, and the overall convenience of navigating the healthcare landscape.

Hartselle, a charming town in Morgan County, offers a blend of small-town living and proximity to larger urban centers. This duality significantly impacts healthcare access. While local options exist, specialized care often necessitates travel to nearby cities. Understanding these transportation dynamics is critical.

The primary healthcare providers for breast cancer services in this region are located in Decatur and Huntsville. These cities offer a range of specialists, diagnostic tools, and treatment facilities. The drive times to these locations form the foundation of our analysis.

**Driving Directions and Times:**

The most direct route to Decatur from Hartselle involves utilizing Highway 31 (AL-31). This thoroughfare is the main artery connecting the two cities. Drive times typically range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey covers approximately 15 miles.

For specialized care, Huntsville is a frequent destination. The most common route involves Interstate 65 (I-65) south, followed by a connection to the Parkway (US-72). This trip covers roughly 35 miles and takes approximately 40 to 60 minutes, again influenced by traffic patterns, especially during peak hours.

Traffic can be a significant variable. Rush hour congestion on I-65, particularly near Decatur and Huntsville, can extend travel times considerably. Considering this variability is crucial when evaluating the reliability of driving as a transportation method.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transit options in Hartselle are limited. The primary provider for the region is the Huntsville Transit Corporation (HTC), which primarily serves Huntsville and its surrounding areas. Public transit is not a viable option for residents of Hartselle.

Currently, there are no direct public transit routes connecting Hartselle to Decatur or Huntsville. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who do not drive or have limited mobility. The absence of accessible public transit creates a barrier to healthcare, particularly for those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Hartselle area, offering an alternative to driving. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be challenging due to potential delays and cost considerations.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include door-to-door assistance and can accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility devices. While convenient, medical transport services can be expensive, potentially posing a financial burden.

**ADA Accessibility:**

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration for any healthcare-related transportation. While ride-sharing services typically offer accessible vehicle options, availability may be limited. Medical transport services generally provide ADA-compliant vehicles. Public transit, when available, is required to adhere to ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Hartselle, Alabama, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While driving provides relatively quick access to essential services in Decatur and Huntsville, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing services offers an alternative, but its reliability and cost can be factors.

The absence of robust public transportation and the potential for traffic delays on major highways can impact the overall convenience of accessing healthcare. Residents relying on others for transportation or facing mobility limitations may encounter significant barriers.

**Moving to Hartselle: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For individuals considering moving to Hartselle, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. If regular access to specialized breast cancer care is a priority, careful consideration should be given to the feasibility of driving, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs of medical transport.

The proximity to Decatur and Huntsville offers access to a range of healthcare providers. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential transportation challenges.

**Conclusion:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Hartselle, Alabama, highlights the importance of understanding transportation dynamics when assessing healthcare access. While the community offers access to essential services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful planning. Individuals considering relocating to Hartselle should prioritize their transportation needs and healthcare requirements to ensure adequate access to breast cancer care. This detailed overview provides a foundation for informed decision-making, allowing prospective residents to evaluate the healthcare landscape and make informed choices about their relocation.