35654, Russellville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35654, Russellville, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.91 percent of residents in 35654 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russellville Hospital with a distance of 3.66 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Russellville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35654)

Considering a move to Russellville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35654)? Beyond the charming small-town atmosphere and affordable living, understanding your access to healthcare, especially for a critical illness like breast cancer, is paramount. This "Breast Cancer Score" analyzes the transportation landscape, evaluating your ability to reach essential medical services for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this community.

Russellville, nestled in Franklin County, presents a unique challenge. While possessing a close-knit community, its rural setting dictates a reliance on personal **transportation** and limits the availability of extensive public transit. Assessing your healthcare access necessitates a thorough examination of the distances and modes of travel required to reach specialized medical facilities. This analysis is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Russellville**, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of breast cancer.

**Drive Times: The Highway to Healing**

The primary mode of **transportation** for accessing breast cancer care in Russellville is undoubtedly personal vehicle. The closest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in larger cities, demanding a commitment of time and distance.

For initial screenings and general oncology services, the Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, approximately 25 miles away, is a common destination. Traveling along US-43 South is the most direct route, typically taking around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive is generally straightforward, offering a relatively smooth commute for routine appointments. However, this time frame can be significantly impacted by rush hour or inclement weather.

Specialized care, including advanced diagnostics, surgery, and radiation therapy, often necessitates travel to larger regional medical centers. Huntsville Hospital, a comprehensive facility, is approximately 80 miles east, reachable via US-43 North to US-72 East. This journey can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, demanding careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The drive involves navigating both rural roads and sections of interstate, requiring vigilance and awareness of traffic conditions.

Another option is the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, Mississippi, roughly 70 miles west, accessible via US-43 South and MS-6 East. This trip, similar in duration to the Huntsville drive, presents an alternative for those seeking specialized care. The choice between these two facilities often depends on individual preferences, insurance coverage, and the specific treatment protocols offered.

**Public Transit: A Limited Route**

Public **transportation** options in Russellville are extremely limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. The city currently lacks a dedicated public bus system. This absence necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical **transportation** for those without personal **transportation** or the ability to drive.

The absence of public transit disproportionately impacts individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of accessible **transportation** can create significant challenges in attending regular appointments, undergoing treatments, and accessing essential support services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Russellville, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in response to limited driver availability. This can add to the financial burden of accessing healthcare.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for individuals needing assistance with appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door **transportation**, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several companies, such as First Choice Medical Transport and American Medical Response, operate in the region, offering varying levels of service and pricing. However, availability and cost can vary, and it is crucial to research and pre-arrange these services well in advance of any appointments.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible **transportation** is paramount. While ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, their availability is not guaranteed. Medical **transportation** services are generally equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

When assessing **healthcare access**, it is essential to confirm that the chosen medical facilities are ADA-compliant, including accessible entrances, examination rooms, and restrooms. This ensures that individuals with disabilities can navigate the facilities comfortably and safely.

**Breast Cancer Score: Evaluating Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Russellville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35654), reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer care. The score is a composite of several factors:

* **Drive Time to Specialized Facilities:** The distance to specialized facilities in Huntsville and Tupelo, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, contributes significantly to the score.
* **Availability of Public Transit:** The lack of a comprehensive public transit system negatively impacts the score, particularly for those without personal **transportation**.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** provides some mitigation, but their cost and reliability can be a concern.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible **transportation** options and the ADA-compliance of medical facilities are crucial factors.

Based on these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Russellville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35654), is moderate. While the presence of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers some support, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present significant challenges.

**Recommendations for Improved Healthcare Access**

To improve **healthcare access** in Russellville, several initiatives could be beneficial:

* **Advocacy for Public Transit:** Efforts to establish a local public transit system, including routes to medical facilities, would significantly improve **healthcare access** for all residents.
* **Partnerships with Ride-Sharing Services:** Collaborations with ride-sharing services could provide subsidized or discounted **transportation** options for medical appointments.
* **Expansion of Medical Transportation Services:** Encouraging the growth of medical **transportation** services, including increased availability and affordability, would benefit those needing assistance.
* **Community Education:** Raising awareness about available resources, including **transportation** options and financial assistance programs, would empower residents to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

**Conclusion: Planning for the Future**

For individuals considering **moving to Russellville**, understanding the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access** is essential. While the community offers a welcoming environment, the limitations in **transportation** options require careful planning, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of breast cancer. By proactively researching **transportation** alternatives, understanding the available resources, and advocating for improved **healthcare access**, residents can navigate the challenges and ensure they receive the necessary care and support. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the accessibility of healthcare, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being in Russellville, Alabama.