36558, Millry, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36558, Millry, Alabama is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.54 percent of residents in 36558 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hospital with a distance of 10.95 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Millry, Alabama (ZIP Code 36558)

The quest for optimal healthcare, especially concerning a diagnosis as serious as breast cancer, demands a deep understanding of accessibility. This write-up delves into the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape for residents of Millry, Alabama (ZIP Code 36558), offering a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment based on transportation options and healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Millry, highlighting the crucial role of transportation in timely diagnosis and treatment.

Millry, a rural community nestled in Washington County, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The availability of specialized medical services, including those vital for breast cancer care, is often concentrated in larger urban centers. This geographical reality necessitates a thorough examination of transportation options, impacting the overall Breast Cancer Score.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Multifaceted Approach**

Our score considers several key factors. Firstly, the proximity to healthcare facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Secondly, the efficiency and reliability of transportation options, encompassing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. Finally, we factor in the cost of transportation, recognizing its potential financial burden on patients. A higher score signifies greater ease of access to quality breast cancer care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For residents of Millry, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating a network of highways and rural roads. The primary artery connecting Millry to the outside world is Alabama State Route 17, a two-lane highway that snakes its way north and south.

Driving to the nearest major healthcare hubs, such as Mobile or Jackson, requires significant travel time. To reach the University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute in Mobile, a center offering comprehensive cancer care, the drive typically takes approximately 2 hours via AL-17 South to US-43 South, then onto I-65 South. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend this travel time.

Similarly, accessing medical facilities in Jackson, such as Jackson Medical Center, involves a drive of approximately 1 hour via AL-17 North. While this is a shorter distance, the availability of specialized breast cancer services might be limited compared to the larger facilities in Mobile.

The condition of the roads, especially after inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety. Residents must factor in potential delays due to road closures or accidents. Therefore, reliable personal transportation is essential for effective healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Millry are extremely limited. Washington County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This severely restricts healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

There are no regularly scheduled bus routes serving Millry. This absence of public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with limited mobility, the elderly, or those facing financial constraints. The lack of public transportation dramatically lowers the Breast Cancer Score for residents reliant on this mode.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mobile area, but their presence in Millry is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, unreliable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more viable option. Companies specializing in medical transport cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. However, these services often come at a higher cost than personal transportation or public transit, adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including but not limited to, American Medical Response (AMR), and various private ambulance services. These services offer varying levels of care, from basic transportation to advanced medical support. The availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, requiring careful research and planning.

**ADA Accessibility: A Crucial Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation options is paramount. Public transit, when available, must adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, ensuring accessibility features such as ramps, lifts, and designated seating. Ride-sharing services, while not always specifically ADA-compliant, can often accommodate individuals with disabilities. Medical transport services are generally equipped to handle patients with various mobility needs.

**The Financial Burden of Transportation**

The cost of transportation significantly impacts healthcare access. The expenses associated with driving, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees, can accumulate quickly. Ride-sharing and medical transport services further add to the financial burden.

For individuals with limited incomes or those lacking health insurance, these transportation costs can become a significant barrier to accessing necessary medical care. This financial strain further lowers the Breast Cancer Score for residents of Millry.

**Breast Cancer Score Summary**

Considering the factors discussed, the Breast Cancer Score for residents of Millry, Alabama (ZIP Code 36558), is moderate. While driving provides the primary transportation option, the long distances to specialized healthcare facilities, the absence of public transit, and the potential financial burden of ride-sharing and medical transport services pose significant challenges.

**Moving to Millry: A Healthcare Perspective**

For those considering moving to Millry, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is crucial. Individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate the transportation options and the proximity to specialized medical care. Proactive planning, including identifying reliable transportation solutions and establishing relationships with healthcare providers in advance, is essential.

The Breast Cancer Score for Millry highlights the importance of individual responsibility and community support in navigating the healthcare landscape. While the geographical challenges are undeniable, informed decision-making and proactive planning can help residents of Millry access the care they need.