36617, Mobile, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36617, Mobile, Alabama is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.52 percent of residents in 36617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Usa Health University Hospital with a distance of 0.70 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 36617

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. Factors beyond medical expertise, like the ease and reliability of **transportation**, significantly impact patient outcomes. This write-up analyzes the **healthcare access** landscape for residents of ZIP Code 36617 in Mobile, Alabama, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking treatment. For anyone considering **moving to Mobile**, this information is critical.

ZIP Code 36617, encompassing areas like Theodore and Tillman's Corner, presents a unique set of **transportation** challenges. While the area offers a relatively suburban feel, its distance from major medical centers in Mobile necessitates careful consideration of how patients will reach vital appointments, from initial screenings to chemotherapy sessions. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access**.

The primary artery for vehicular **transportation** is Interstate 10 (I-10), providing a direct route east towards Mobile's central medical corridor. However, I-10 can be prone to traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, potentially adding significant delays to crucial appointments. Alternate routes include US Highway 90, a slower but less congested option, and local roads like Moffett Road and Bellingrath Road. Drive times to major hospitals like Providence Hospital, Mobile Infirmary Medical Center, and University Hospital, the primary hubs for breast cancer care, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Further complicating matters is the availability of reliable **transportation** for those without personal vehicles. While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Mobile, their availability and affordability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or for longer distances. Relying solely on these services can be costly and unpredictable, creating a barrier to consistent **healthcare access**.

Public transit, operated by the Wave Transit System, offers a more affordable, though potentially less convenient, option. Route 10, running along Airport Boulevard, provides a connection to downtown Mobile, where transfers to other routes may be necessary to reach specific medical facilities. However, the frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited. Furthermore, the **transportation** infrastructure in 36617 may not always be optimized for patients with mobility challenges. ADA-compliant buses are available, but the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time need to be considered.

For patients requiring specialized medical **transportation**, several options exist. Companies like MedRide and First Choice Medical Transportation offer non-emergency medical transport services, providing door-to-door assistance for those unable to drive or use public transit. These services often require advance booking and can incur significant costs, adding another layer of complexity to the **healthcare access** puzzle.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 36617 is therefore a nuanced one. While the area benefits from its proximity to I-10 and the presence of ride-sharing services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the limitations of public transit create challenges for **healthcare access**. The availability of specialized medical **transportation** offers a crucial safety net, but its cost and the need for pre-planning can be a burden.

Considering the factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 36617 is a moderate one. While the area offers a degree of **healthcare access**, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for **transportation** challenges warrant careful consideration for anyone considering **moving to Mobile** or seeking breast cancer treatment in the area.

For those considering **moving to Mobile** and residing in 36617, proactive planning is essential. Investigating the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, exploring the Wave Transit System's routes and schedules, and researching medical **transportation** options are crucial steps. Establishing a support network of friends, family, or community organizations to assist with appointments and errands can also alleviate the burden of **transportation**.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it is a call to action. It highlights the need for improved **transportation** options, increased public transit frequency, and greater awareness of available resources. Improving **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients in 36617 requires a multi-faceted approach, involving individual planning, community support, and potential advocacy for better **transportation** infrastructure and services.

The success of breast cancer treatment hinges not only on medical expertise but also on the patient's ability to consistently and reliably access care. In 36617, the journey to healthcare requires careful navigation, thoughtful planning, and a proactive approach to **transportation**. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing these challenges, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the vital care they need.