36701, Selma, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36701, Selma, Alabama is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.73 percent of residents in 36701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vaughan Regional Medical Center Parkway Campus with a distance of 0.68 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Selma, AL (ZIP Code 36701)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, demanding not only expert medical care but also accessible and reliable transportation. For residents of Selma, Alabama (ZIP Code 36701), the journey to healthcare, a critical element of their overall "Breast Cancer Score," presents unique challenges. This assessment explores the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access in this historic city.

Moving to Selma, a city steeped in Civil Rights history, requires careful consideration of various factors, including healthcare access. The ability to reach medical appointments, especially those related to breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is paramount. This write-up aims to provide a clear understanding of the transportation realities faced by individuals in ZIP Code 36701, offering insights into the complexities of navigating the healthcare system.

The cornerstone of transportation in Selma is undoubtedly the automobile. For those with the means, driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries for accessing medical care are U.S. Highway 80, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Alabama State Route 14, which runs north-south. Driving to the Vaughan Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital in Selma, typically takes less than 10 minutes for those residing within the city limits. However, travel times can vary significantly depending on traffic, especially during peak hours and school dismissal times.

For residents in more rural areas within the ZIP code, the journey can be considerably longer. Residents in the western portions of the ZIP code, for example, may face a 20-30 minute drive to the hospital. Accessing specialized care, such as oncology services or radiation therapy, often necessitates travel to larger cities like Montgomery, approximately an hour's drive east via U.S. Highway 80. This extended travel time adds a significant burden, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

Public transportation, a vital component of healthcare access, presents a more limited option in Selma. The city operates a public bus system, but its routes and frequency are restricted. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is crucial for individuals relying on public transit. Researching the current routes and their accessibility is a necessity for anyone considering a move to Selma and relying on public transit for healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Selma, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Dependence on ride-sharing requires careful planning and budgeting.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to assist patients with mobility limitations. These services, often provided by private companies, offer transportation to and from medical appointments. These services typically include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Researching the availability and cost of medical transport services in Selma is essential for individuals with mobility challenges.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 36701 is influenced by several factors. The availability of timely transportation to medical appointments is a critical determinant of a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. The longer the travel time, the greater the potential for delays in diagnosis and treatment. The cost of transportation, whether it be gasoline, public transit fares, or ride-sharing fees, also impacts the overall score.

The quality of the transportation infrastructure, including road conditions and public transit accessibility, also plays a role. Poor road conditions can increase travel times and the risk of accidents. Limited public transit options can restrict access to healthcare for those who cannot drive or afford ride-sharing services.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and transportation assistance programs, can significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score." These programs can help patients navigate the healthcare system, arrange transportation, and overcome other barriers to care.

For individuals considering moving to Selma, a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape is essential. Researching the availability of healthcare facilities, the distance to those facilities, and the available transportation options is crucial. Contacting the Vaughan Regional Medical Center and local patient advocacy groups for information on transportation assistance programs is highly recommended.

The "Breast Cancer Score" in Selma, Alabama, is a complex issue. While the city offers a primary hospital and the availability of ride-sharing services, the limitations of public transit and the potential for long travel times to specialized care create challenges. For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, navigating this transportation landscape requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and access to support services. The ability to access healthcare is a critical element of quality of life, especially when facing a serious illness.