35674, Tuscumbia, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35674, Tuscumbia, Alabama is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.97 percent of residents in 35674 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Helen Keller Hospital with a distance of 3.07 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 35674

Considering a move to Tuscumbia, Alabama, ZIP Code 35674? This analysis provides a “Breast Cancer Score,” a composite measure of healthcare accessibility specifically for breast cancer screening and treatment. It considers the crucial element of transportation, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all vital factors in navigating the healthcare landscape. Understanding these elements is paramount, especially for individuals and families with a history of breast cancer or those seeking proactive preventative care.

The score is not a definitive judgment but a framework for assessing the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services. It highlights potential challenges and advantages related to transportation, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living situation. The score considers factors such as the availability of specialists, the proximity of hospitals, and the overall efficiency of the transportation network.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries of 35674**

The primary factor influencing the Breast Cancer Score is drive time. For residents of 35674, access to breast cancer screening and treatment hinges on the efficiency of the local road network. The closest major healthcare facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Muscle Shoals and Florence, Alabama. These are the hubs for specialized care.

Driving to these facilities typically involves navigating the familiar arteries of the region. From Tuscumbia, Highway 72 is the primary east-west route, connecting the city to Muscle Shoals and Florence. The drive to the Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, which is part of the Shoals Hospital System, is relatively short, usually under 10 minutes, depending on traffic. This proximity is a significant advantage, contributing positively to the Breast Cancer Score.

Traveling to the North Alabama Medical Center in Muscle Shoals, another key facility, is also generally a quick journey, often taking around 15-20 minutes, again contingent on traffic flow. This hospital provides comprehensive cancer care. The drive involves navigating Highway 72 and connecting roads.

Further afield, the drive to Huntsville, Alabama, which offers a wider range of specialized cancer centers, could take over an hour, primarily via Highway 72 and Interstate 65. This longer commute negatively impacts the score, as it increases travel time and potential stress, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Tuscumbia and the surrounding areas are limited. The Shoals area, including 35674, does not have an extensive public transit system. This lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

The absence of frequent bus routes or accessible public transit options significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score. For those reliant on public transportation, accessing healthcare facilities requires reliance on alternative methods, potentially increasing travel time and logistical complexity. This lack of public transit underscores the importance of considering alternative transportation options when evaluating healthcare access in 35674.

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

In the absence of robust public transit, ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers become crucial. Uber and Lyft are available in the Shoals area, offering a potential solution for transportation to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, potentially impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, also play a role. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) offer door-to-door service, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may affect their ability to drive.

The availability of these services, and their affordability, are crucial considerations. The Breast Cancer Score considers the accessibility of these alternatives, acknowledging their vital role in ensuring healthcare access for residents of 35674.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for 35674 is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation. The score is weighted, with drive times to key healthcare facilities carrying the most significant influence. Proximity to hospitals and cancer centers is a major positive factor.

The limited public transit options negatively impact the score, while the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides some mitigation. The overall score reflects the balance between these factors, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare accessibility in the area.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The closer the facilities, the higher the score.
* **Drive Times:** Shorter drive times to hospitals and cancer centers increase the score.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The absence of public transit lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services provide a moderate boost.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability and accessibility of NEMT services are considered.
* **Traffic Congestion:** High traffic volume can negatively impact the score.

**Moving to Tuscumbia: Making Informed Decisions**

When considering a move to Tuscumbia, ZIP Code 35674, understanding the Breast Cancer Score is essential. This score provides a valuable framework for assessing healthcare access, specifically concerning breast cancer screening and treatment.

Individuals with a history of breast cancer, or those seeking preventative care, should carefully evaluate the transportation options available and their potential impact on healthcare access. The score highlights the importance of considering drive times, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transportation.

By understanding the nuances of healthcare access in 35674, individuals can make informed decisions, ensuring they have access to the care they need. This assessment provides a valuable tool for navigating the healthcare landscape and planning for a healthy future in Tuscumbia.