35653, Russellville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35653, Russellville, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.07 percent of residents in 35653 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russellville Hospital with a distance of 2.56 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Russellville (ZIP Code 35653)

Relocating to Russellville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35653)? This assessment delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on breast cancer treatment options. We'll explore the transportation landscape, a critical factor influencing the Breast Cancer Score, which reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can access necessary medical services. Understanding this score is vital for anyone considering a move, especially those with pre-existing health concerns or a family history of breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, isn't a formal medical assessment. Instead, it's a composite measure reflecting the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare within and around Russellville. This includes factors like drive times to treatment centers, availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. A higher score indicates better access, translating to reduced stress and potentially improved health outcomes.

Russellville, a city nestled in Franklin County, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of transportation is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The city is served by several key highways and roads, each impacting the journey to vital healthcare facilities.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For residents of 35653, the most immediate option for breast cancer care is likely the Northwest Alabama Cancer Center in nearby Muscle Shoals. A drive to this facility, typically taking around 30-45 minutes, involves navigating US-43 South. This route, a major north-south artery, is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours.

Another option is the Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, also accessible via US-43 South. Drive times are similar to those for the Northwest Alabama Cancer Center. However, the hospital offers a broader range of services, potentially encompassing specialized breast cancer care.

For more comprehensive treatment, residents might consider facilities in Huntsville, approximately 90 miles east. This journey involves a significant time commitment, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours, and necessitates travel on US-72 East and I-65 North. This longer commute underscores the importance of reliable transportation and the potential impact on the Breast Cancer Score.

Finally, Birmingham, a major metropolitan center, houses numerous specialized cancer centers. Reaching Birmingham from Russellville is a considerable undertaking, approximately 120 miles and a 2-2.5-hour drive, primarily via I-65 South. This option, while offering the widest range of specialized services, presents the greatest transportation burden.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public transportation options within Russellville and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. Franklin County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of infrastructure significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This situation highlights the critical role of alternative transportation solutions.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The absence of a robust public transit system in Russellville poses significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features in public transportation. However, the lack of a formal system means that ADA-compliant transportation options are virtually nonexistent. This underscores the need for alternative solutions, such as ride-sharing services, for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Russellville, offering a potential solution for those who cannot drive. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including First Response Medical Transportation and MedStar Ambulance. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

While specific medical transport brands operating directly within Russellville might be limited, the broader regional network offers options. Researching local providers and verifying their service areas is crucial. These services are a critical component in improving the Breast Cancer Score for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

**Moving to Russellville: Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Russellville, a careful assessment of transportation needs is paramount. The lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate planning. Prospective residents with a history of breast cancer or those seeking preventive care should prioritize locations closer to treatment facilities.

Furthermore, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services should be factored into the decision-making process. Understanding the potential financial burden of transportation is critical for budgeting and ensuring access to necessary medical care.

**Improving the Breast Cancer Score:**

While the current transportation landscape in Russellville presents challenges, several strategies can improve the Breast Cancer Score. Encouraging the development of local partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could lead to discounted transportation options. Promoting awareness of medical transport services and their availability is also crucial.

Advocating for the expansion of public transit options, even if limited, would significantly benefit the community. This could involve exploring partnerships with neighboring counties or implementing demand-response transit services.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Russellville (35653) is influenced by the transportation infrastructure. While the area offers access to breast cancer care, primarily via personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on ride-sharing services present challenges. Careful planning, considering the availability and cost of transportation, is essential for anyone moving to Russellville, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or seeking preventive care. Understanding these factors allows for informed decisions, ultimately contributing to a more positive and accessible healthcare experience.