35035, Brierfield, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35035, Brierfield, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.57 percent of residents in 35035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bibb Medical Center with a distance of 12.92 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brierfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35035)

The air in Brierfield, Alabama, whispers tales of the past, of iron furnaces and the enduring spirit of its people. But alongside this history, a stark reality persists: the potential for lung cancer and the challenges of accessing quality healthcare. This write-up, the "Lung Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 35035, assessing its impact on healthcare access for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. It’s a critical consideration for anyone moving to Brierfield or seeking care in the area.

The primary challenge lies in the relative remoteness of Brierfield. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in larger towns and cities, demanding careful consideration of transportation options. The journey to specialized care can be a significant hurdle, particularly for those experiencing the debilitating effects of lung cancer. This analysis delves into the specifics of each mode of transportation, providing a nuanced understanding of the accessibility challenges.

**Driving Directions and Time:**

For those with the means and ability to drive, the automobile remains the most direct route to healthcare. The primary artery connecting Brierfield to the outside world is **Highway 25**, a two-lane road that winds its way through the rolling hills. Traveling east on Highway 25 leads to the city of Montevallo, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Montevallo offers a small hospital and some primary care physicians. However, for specialized oncology services, patients will likely need to travel further.

Continuing east on Highway 25, one can access **Interstate 65 (I-65)**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Heading north on I-65 provides access to Birmingham, a drive of roughly 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Birmingham boasts a concentration of hospitals, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, a nationally recognized cancer center. The journey south on I-65 leads to Montgomery, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, which offers additional healthcare options.

Alternatively, traveling west on Highway 25 connects to **Highway 139**, which then leads to **Highway 22**. This route offers access to the city of Centreville, which is a drive of about 20-30 minutes. Centreville has limited healthcare options. The time of day significantly impacts drive times, with rush hour adding considerable delays, particularly on I-65. This is an important consideration for patients who may experience pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Brierfield and the surrounding areas are severely limited. There is no readily available bus service within Brierfield itself. The nearest public transit options are in larger cities like Birmingham. However, accessing these services from Brierfield requires a private vehicle or ride-share to reach the transit hubs.

The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, operates a network of bus routes throughout the Birmingham metropolitan area. These routes are not directly accessible from Brierfield, making them an impractical option for most residents. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while mandated, can vary. The reliability of public transportation, especially in a rural setting, is also a concern, as delays and cancellations can significantly disrupt appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Navigating the Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Birmingham area and may provide a transportation solution for those who cannot drive. However, the availability of these services in Brierfield itself is less certain. Ride-share availability is often dependent on driver density, which tends to be lower in rural areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services typically involve trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other medical equipment. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, especially for long-distance trips. The availability of these services in Brierfield should be confirmed with local providers.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Brierfield highlights the multifaceted challenges of healthcare access. The limited transportation options, coupled with the relative remoteness of specialized medical facilities, creates significant barriers for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The reliance on private vehicles, the unreliable nature of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to the complexity of the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Brierfield, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is crucial. Understanding the drive times to hospitals, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport is essential for making informed decisions. The journey to treatment can be arduous, and the ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a critical factor in a patient's overall well-being.

**Moving to Brierfield: A Practical Perspective:**

For those moving to Brierfield, this analysis underscores the importance of careful planning. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare services in the surrounding areas, assess their transportation options, and consider the potential costs associated with accessing medical care. Building a support network, including family, friends, or community organizations, can also be invaluable in navigating the challenges of healthcare access.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access extends beyond the availability of medical facilities. It encompasses the ability to reach those facilities, which is a critical factor in determining the quality of life for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The residents of Brierfield deserve convenient and affordable transportation to medical care.