35954, Attalla, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35954, Attalla, Alabama is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.12 percent of residents in 35954 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 5.57 miles from the area.

The information provided in this response is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35954

Considering a move to Attalla, Alabama (ZIP code 35954)? For anyone, but especially those concerned about healthcare access, particularly regarding breast cancer, understanding transportation options is crucial. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a subjective assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing breast cancer-related healthcare from this location. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and possibilities for those seeking care.

Attalla, nestled in Etowah County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While the town itself offers some local medical services, specialized care, including comprehensive breast cancer treatment, often necessitates travel. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the accessibility of these vital services, focusing on the primary factors influencing a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The most common mode of transportation in this area is personal vehicle. The primary destinations for breast cancer care are likely to be Gadsden, the county seat, and potentially Birmingham, a larger metropolitan area.

Driving to Gadsden, approximately 10 miles away, is generally straightforward. The primary route is US-411 South, a well-maintained highway. The drive time, in normal traffic, is typically 15-20 minutes. This relatively short commute provides a favorable starting point for our score. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact this time. Road closures due to accidents or construction can also introduce delays, a factor that must be considered when scheduling appointments or treatments.

For more specialized care, or if a second opinion is desired, the journey to Birmingham, roughly 60 miles away, becomes more significant. The most direct route involves Interstate 59 South. This major interstate offers a generally smooth ride, but the drive time is approximately one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes. Traffic is heavier on I-59, especially near Birmingham, and this can significantly extend travel times. The potential for longer commutes increases the stress on patients and can impact the practicality of frequent appointments.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the reliability of these drive times, acknowledging the potential for unexpected delays. The ease of parking at the destination hospitals and clinics also impacts the score, as parking can be a source of stress and time consumption.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Attalla and the surrounding areas are limited. Etowah County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for medical appointments. Information about the specific routes, frequency, and ADA accessibility is crucial.

The absence of a dedicated bus route to major healthcare facilities, especially those in Birmingham, significantly reduces the "Breast Cancer Score." Patients may need to rely on multiple transfers, which increases travel time and the potential for missed appointments. The lack of evening or weekend service further limits the practicality of public transit for many patients.

The availability of accessible vehicles, equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with mobility limitations, is also a critical factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." Ensuring patients with disabilities can utilize public transit is a fundamental aspect of healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Attalla, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent appointments, and can be a significant financial burden for patients.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide this service, but their availability and pricing can differ. Researching the options in the area, including insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs, is essential.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the reliability, cost, and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The availability of financial assistance programs to help cover transportation costs is also an important factor.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and the Decision to Move**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a holistic assessment of the transportation landscape for breast cancer patients in ZIP code 35954. It weighs the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential financial burden on patients.

The score is not a definitive judgment, but rather a tool to inform decision-making. It highlights the challenges and opportunities for accessing breast cancer care, allowing individuals to make informed choices about their healthcare needs.

For residents of Attalla, the relatively short drive to Gadsden offers a positive aspect. However, the longer commute to Birmingham, combined with the limitations of public transit, presents a challenge. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services play a crucial role in mitigating these challenges.

When considering a move to Attalla, individuals with breast cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and the available transportation options. Researching local healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage for transportation, and exploring financial assistance programs are essential steps.

The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for this critical assessment, helping individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare and their future in Attalla. The goal is to ensure that residents of Attalla can access the care they need, when they need it, and with minimal disruption to their lives.