36445, Frisco City, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36445, Frisco City, Alabama is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.91 percent of residents in 36445 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Hospital with a distance of 6.51 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Frisco City, Alabama (ZIP Code 36445)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not just the medical expertise of providers but also the logistical hurdles of reaching them. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Frisco City, Alabama (ZIP Code 36445), examines the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. It aims to provide a clear picture for those seeking care or considering moving to Frisco City, a town nestled in the heart of Monroe County.

Frisco City, a community where the rhythm of life often aligns with the gentle flow of the Conecuh River, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers are located in larger cities, necessitating transportation strategies that go beyond a simple trip to the local grocery store. This analysis will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services to offer a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape.

The most direct route to healthcare often involves personal vehicles. From Frisco City, the primary arteries of travel are Highway 84, Highway 21, and various county roads that snake through the rural landscape. The drive to the closest major medical centers, such as those in Monroeville (Monroe County Hospital) or Brewton (D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital), typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. However, these hospitals may not have specialized breast cancer treatment centers.

For more advanced care, residents often travel to Mobile or Montgomery. The journey to Mobile, a city with numerous specialized cancer centers, involves a drive of approximately two to two and a half hours, primarily via Highway 84 East and Interstate 65 South. Montgomery, another option with robust medical facilities, is about a two-hour drive, generally utilizing Highway 84 West and Interstate 65 North. These extended drive times can be a significant burden, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing side effects.

Public transportation options in Frisco City and the surrounding areas are limited. Monroe County does not have a county-wide public transit system. The absence of readily available public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to medical conditions. The lack of public transit creates a critical gap in the transportation network.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the larger cities of Mobile and Montgomery. However, their presence in Frisco City is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of these services depends on driver availability and demand, making them an uncertain option for scheduled appointments or emergency situations. Relying on ride-sharing for consistent transportation to cancer treatment is not a viable option in this area.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for patients who cannot drive themselves. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically involve scheduled rides to and from medical appointments, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, availability can be limited, and booking in advance is essential. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for some patients.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) mandates that public transportation systems, where they exist, must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the absence of a public transit system in Monroe County leaves a void in accessible transportation options. NEMT services are the primary source of accessible transportation for those with mobility limitations, but their availability and cost remain crucial considerations.

For those considering moving to Frisco City and navigating the healthcare landscape, understanding the transportation challenges is paramount. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. The journey to healthcare is more than just a drive; it's a logistical puzzle that requires consideration of time, cost, and accessibility.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Frisco City, therefore, is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation options. The long drive times to specialized cancer centers, the lack of public transit, and the uncertainties surrounding ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. This situation underscores the need for community initiatives to improve healthcare access, such as exploring partnerships with NEMT providers, advocating for expanded public transit options, and supporting programs that assist patients with transportation costs.

In conclusion, the residents of Frisco City face significant transportation hurdles when seeking breast cancer care. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, the journey to healthcare requires careful planning and resourcefulness. Understanding these challenges is the first step towards advocating for improved access and ensuring that all residents, regardless of their transportation situation, can receive the vital care they need.