36104, Montgomery, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36104, Montgomery, Alabama is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.57 percent of residents in 36104 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson Hospital & Clinic Inc with a distance of 1.59 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 36104

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, is a multifaceted experience. It extends beyond the medical appointment itself, encompassing the crucial element of **transportation**. For residents of ZIP Code 36104 in Montgomery, Alabama, understanding the accessibility of breast cancer care is paramount, especially for those considering **moving to Montgomery**. This report offers a "Breast Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment of **healthcare access** in the area, focusing on the practicalities of getting to and from vital appointments.

The 36104 ZIP Code, encompassing a significant portion of central Montgomery, presents a diverse landscape of residential areas, commercial centers, and healthcare facilities. The ease with which residents can access breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This score considers the availability of various **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary roadways in 36104 dictate the flow of **transportation** to healthcare providers. Interstate 85 (I-85) serves as a major artery, connecting the area to larger medical centers and specialty clinics. Traveling north on I-85 can lead to facilities located near the Eastern Boulevard exit, while heading south provides access to hospitals closer to downtown.

US Highway 80, also known as West Fairview Avenue and East Fairview Avenue, is another key thoroughfare, offering direct access to various medical offices and clinics. Navigating these roads during peak hours, however, can significantly impact drive times. Morning and evening commutes, particularly on I-85, often experience congestion, potentially delaying appointments and adding stress to an already challenging situation.

Specific drive times vary depending on the destination and the time of day. A drive from the heart of 36104 to Baptist Medical Center South, a major hospital, can range from 10 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Reaching Jackson Hospital, another prominent healthcare provider, might take a similar amount of time, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. Smaller clinics and specialized practices located along US Highway 80 or in the surrounding neighborhoods offer shorter drive times for those residing nearby.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Essential Resource:**

The Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) provides public transit options within 36104, offering an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. While MATS is a valuable resource, its coverage and frequency can pose challenges.

Several bus routes traverse the 36104 area, including routes that connect to major hospitals and medical facilities. However, the frequency of these routes may be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. Passengers should carefully review the MATS schedule to plan their trips effectively.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for breast cancer patients. MATS buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating transfer points should be carefully assessed. Potential riders should contact MATS directly to confirm accessibility features on specific routes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services are readily available in Montgomery and can provide on-demand **transportation** to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by specialized companies, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services offer door-to-door **transportation**, often with trained personnel to assist patients. While providing a valuable service, medical **transportation** can be expensive and may require advance booking.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options within 36104, a qualitative "Breast Cancer Score" can be assigned. This score reflects the overall accessibility of breast cancer care, considering the availability, convenience, and affordability of various **transportation** methods.

The score will be based on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing the least accessible and 5 representing the most accessible.

* **Drive Time:** The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on major roadways like I-85 and US Highway 80 suggest a moderate level of accessibility.
* **Public Transit:** The availability of MATS routes offers a valuable resource, but limited frequency and coverage impact accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The presence of Uber and Lyft provides on-demand **transportation**, but cost remains a concern.
* **Medical Transportation:** Specialized services offer door-to-door **transportation** but can be expensive.

Considering these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for 36104 is a 3. This score indicates a moderate level of accessibility to breast cancer care, with a need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options.

**Recommendations for Improved Healthcare Access:**

To improve the Breast Cancer Score and enhance **healthcare access** in 36104, several recommendations can be considered. Expanding the frequency and coverage of MATS routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, would benefit residents. Subsidized ride-sharing programs or partnerships with medical providers could help address the cost barrier for patients. Increased awareness of medical **transportation** services and their availability would also be beneficial.

For individuals considering **moving to Montgomery**, specifically to 36104, it is crucial to factor in **transportation** considerations when assessing **healthcare access**. Researching the proximity of healthcare providers, understanding the public transit options, and evaluating the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services are essential steps.

The Breast Cancer Score serves as a starting point for understanding the complexities of accessing breast cancer care in 36104. By acknowledging the challenges and advocating for improvements, the community can work towards ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the vital healthcare they need.