36426, Brewton, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36426, Brewton, Alabama is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.25 percent of residents in 36426 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is D W Mcmillan Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.80 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brewton, Alabama (ZIP Code 36426)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as formidable as breast cancer, is a critical aspect of community well-being. For residents of Brewton, Alabama (ZIP Code 36426), understanding the landscape of transportation options is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a composite assessment of healthcare access, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation, all vital components when facing a breast cancer diagnosis. It's an essential consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Brewton, seeking to understand the local healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of this score rests on the availability and accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services within a reasonable travel radius. This includes mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The score will reflect the ease with which a patient can reach these services, acknowledging the physical and emotional toll of navigating a cancer journey.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Brewton is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The availability of a personal vehicle significantly impacts healthcare access. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are crucial.

The primary artery for travel in and out of Brewton is Interstate 65 (I-65). Traveling north on I-65, the drive to larger medical centers in Mobile, Alabama, which offers comprehensive cancer care, can take approximately two hours. Southbound, a similar drive time to Pensacola, Florida, presents another option for specialized treatment.

Within Brewton, the primary roads are Alabama Highway 41 (AL-41) and Alabama Highway 29 (AL-29). These roads provide access to local medical facilities, including D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital, which offers basic diagnostic services. Drive times within Brewton are generally short, typically under 15 minutes, depending on the destination and traffic.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges. Patients undergoing treatment often experience fatigue and may be unable to drive. The financial burden of car maintenance, fuel, and parking adds to the stress. This underscores the need for alternative transportation options.

**Public Transit: The Wheels of Community**

Public transit in Brewton is limited. Escambia County, where Brewton is located, operates a demand-response transportation system, the Escambia County Area Transportation System (ECATS). This system provides transportation for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and the general public on a reservation basis.

ECATS operates Monday through Friday, with limited weekend service. Booking a ride requires advance notice, typically 24 to ‑48 hours. The system offers curb-to-curb service, meaning the vehicle will pick up and drop off passengers at their homes or designated locations.

While ECATS is a crucial service for those unable to drive, it has limitations. The service area is confined to Escambia County, and travel outside the county requires special arrangements. The availability of the service is dependent on funding and staffing, and delays are possible.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a key feature of ECATS. All vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations to ensure access for individuals with disabilities. This is particularly important for breast cancer patients who may experience mobility issues during treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Brewton. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, often providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including First Choice Medical Transport and MedStar Ambulance.

The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Patients should check with their insurance providers to determine coverage options. The availability of medical transport services is a significant advantage, providing a reliable alternative for those unable to drive or utilize public transit.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Brewton, Alabama (ZIP Code 36426) is a nuanced evaluation. It reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure in relation to healthcare access.

The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Comprehensive Cancer Centers:** The longer the drive time, the lower the score.
* **Availability and Reliability of Public Transit:** The more accessible and reliable the public transit, the higher the score.
* **Presence of Ride-Share Services:** The greater the availability of ride-sharing, the higher the score.
* **Availability of Medical Transport:** The presence of medical transport services significantly improves the score.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The affordability of transportation options influences the score.

Based on these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Brewton is moderate. While the drive times to comprehensive cancer centers in Mobile and Pensacola are considerable, the availability of ECATS and medical transport services provides alternative options. However, the limited presence of ride-sharing services and the cost of transportation remain challenges.

**Moving to Brewton: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Brewton, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for careful planning.

* **Assess Personal Transportation Needs:** Determine if a personal vehicle is essential. Consider the ability to drive during treatment.
* **Explore Public Transit Options:** Familiarize yourself with ECATS and its limitations.
* **Investigate Medical Transport Services:** Research available medical transport providers and insurance coverage.
* **Factor in Travel Time:** Account for the time required to travel to medical appointments, particularly for specialized care.
* **Evaluate Financial Implications:** Budget for transportation costs, including fuel, maintenance, and ride-sharing or medical transport fees.

The journey through breast cancer is challenging. By understanding the transportation options available in Brewton, individuals can proactively plan for healthcare access and navigate this journey with greater confidence. This is a crucial aspect for those contemplating moving to Brewton, ensuring they can receive the care they need.