35987, Steele, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35987, Steele, Alabama is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.65 percent of residents in 35987 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 14.55 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Steele, Alabama (ZIP Code 35987)

Steele, Alabama, a community nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering access to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This assessment, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the available transportation options, crucial for timely appointments, treatments, and support, in the context of this specific ZIP code. It analyzes the landscape of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access**, offering a nuanced perspective for residents and those **moving to Steele**.

The journey to quality breast cancer care in Steele begins with understanding the geographical realities. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Gadsden and Birmingham, both requiring travel. The primary thoroughfares connecting Steele to these hubs are US-411 and I-59. The drive to Gadsden, home to facilities like Riverview Regional Medical Center, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Birmingham, with its renowned cancer centers like the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, is a more significant undertaking, requiring approximately a 1.5-hour drive, contingent on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The drive to Gadsden via US-411 is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion can occur during rush hour, particularly near Rainbow City. I-59 offers a faster route to Birmingham, but it's susceptible to delays due to accidents or construction. Road conditions are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can sometimes impact travel, potentially extending drive times. This is a crucial consideration for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue or other side effects that make driving more challenging.

The journey to Birmingham involves navigating a longer stretch of interstate, requiring greater vigilance and planning. The potential for delays necessitates careful scheduling of appointments and treatments. The availability of reliable **transportation** is paramount.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Steele and the surrounding areas are severely limited. Etowah County does not have a comprehensive public transit system that directly serves Steele. This means that individuals relying on public transit for **healthcare access** face significant hurdles. The lack of readily available public **transportation** poses a considerable challenge, particularly for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

There are no fixed-route buses or trains that directly connect Steele to Gadsden or Birmingham. This scarcity of public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** options, such as ride-sharing services, medical transport, or relying on family and friends. The absence of public transit is a critical factor in assessing the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Steele.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of frequent rides can quickly become a financial burden, adding to the stress of a breast cancer diagnosis. For those **moving to Steele**, understanding the limitations of ride-sharing services is essential.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers may offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive or require assistance due to physical limitations. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, depending on the distance and the level of care needed.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations:**

For individuals with disabilities, the lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. Medical **transportation** services typically offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but availability and scheduling may be restrictive. When considering **healthcare access**, the availability of accessible **transportation** is a crucial element.

**Family and Community Support:**

The role of family and community support in **transportation** is significant. Many patients rely on family members, friends, or support groups to provide rides to appointments and treatments. This underscores the importance of building a strong support network. The availability of community resources, such as volunteer driver programs, can also enhance **healthcare access**.

**Financial Implications:**

The cost of **transportation** can significantly impact the financial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis. The expense of gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, or medical **transportation** can add to the already considerable costs of treatment and care. Financial assistance programs, offered by cancer centers and support organizations, can help alleviate some of these financial pressures.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in Context:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Steele, Alabama (35987) reflects a landscape where **healthcare access** is significantly impacted by the limitations of **transportation** options. The lack of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services create challenges for patients.

The drive times to cancer centers in Gadsden and Birmingham, while manageable, necessitate careful planning and scheduling. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** provides some alternatives, but their reliability and cost are important considerations. The absence of a robust public transit system places a greater burden on patients and their support networks.

For individuals **moving to Steele**, understanding these **transportation** dynamics is essential. Prioritizing access to reliable **transportation** is critical for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Exploring all available options, including family support, ride-sharing, medical **transportation**, and financial assistance programs, is crucial for navigating the healthcare landscape in Steele. The "Breast Cancer Score" for Steele underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to **transportation**, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the care they need.