36551, Loxley, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36551, Loxley, Alabama is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.73 percent of residents in 36551 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Thomas Hospital with a distance of 9.81 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Loxley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36551)

The specter of breast cancer looms large in the American landscape, a reality underscored by the need for timely diagnoses and effective treatment. For residents of Loxley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36551), the journey to healthcare, particularly for specialized services like mammograms and oncology appointments, is a crucial factor in their overall well-being. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive “Breast Cancer Score” for Loxley, evaluating transportation options, accessibility, and potential challenges faced by individuals seeking breast cancer care. This is especially important for anyone **moving to Loxley**, factoring in their **healthcare access** needs.

Loxley, nestled in Baldwin County, offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. However, its location presents specific considerations when evaluating **transportation** options for accessing healthcare. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative modes of transport, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals facing breast cancer diagnoses or requiring preventative care.

The primary artery for travel within Loxley and the surrounding areas is US Highway 90, a major east-west thoroughfare. Accessing larger medical centers often necessitates navigating this highway, which can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Additionally, State Route 59 provides a north-south route, offering access to neighboring towns and potentially influencing travel times to healthcare facilities.

The closest significant healthcare hub is in Foley, approximately 15-20 minutes south of Loxley via US Highway 98. Foley boasts the South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, which offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and potentially some oncology services. The drive is generally straightforward, but the time can be impacted by traffic, especially during tourist season.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to Mobile, a city approximately 45-60 minutes west of Loxley, primarily via I-10. Mobile houses larger hospitals, including the University of South Alabama Medical Center and Infirmary, which provide comprehensive cancer care. This longer commute, however, introduces additional considerations, including fuel costs, potential for fatigue, and the need for reliable transportation.

Public transit options in Loxley are limited. Baldwin County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and may not be conducive to regular medical appointments. The system's accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those who may have mobility limitations due to treatment or surgery, is a critical factor. Information on ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility and audio-visual announcements, is vital for assessing its suitability for patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability and cost can vary depending on demand and the time of day. The reliability of these services for scheduled appointments, especially for early morning or late afternoon appointments, needs careful consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are another option. Several companies, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local private providers, offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, which can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations. The cost and availability of these services are critical factors in evaluating their accessibility for Loxley residents.

The Breast Cancer Score for Loxley is not merely about distance; it is about the overall experience of accessing healthcare. Factors such as the availability of parking at medical facilities, the ease of navigating the facilities, and the availability of support services like patient navigators all contribute to the patient experience.

The score also considers the availability of resources within Loxley itself. Local pharmacies, primary care physicians, and community health centers can play a vital role in providing initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing support. The proximity of these resources to residential areas and the ease of access are important factors in the overall score.

Furthermore, the score acknowledges the importance of financial considerations. The cost of transportation, including fuel, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation services, can significantly impact a patient's ability to access care. The availability of financial assistance programs and support services for patients facing financial hardship is a critical component of the overall assessment.

The Breast Cancer Score for Loxley, therefore, is a multifaceted assessment that considers all aspects of healthcare access. It is a dynamic evaluation, acknowledging that healthcare needs and transportation options can change over time. This score provides a snapshot of the current situation, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and empowering them to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

For individuals **moving to Loxley**, understanding the Breast Cancer Score is essential. It allows them to proactively assess their healthcare needs, evaluate the available transportation options, and plan for potential challenges. The score should encourage conversations with healthcare providers about access to care, ensuring that individuals can receive the timely diagnoses and treatments they need.

This assessment underscores the importance of community involvement. Local organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders can work together to improve healthcare access in Loxley. This includes advocating for improved public transportation, expanding the availability of medical transportation services, and providing financial assistance to patients in need.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Loxley, Alabama, reflects the complexities of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. It highlights the importance of considering transportation options, financial constraints, and the availability of support services. By understanding these factors, residents of Loxley can take proactive steps to ensure they receive the care they need, promoting their health and well-being.