35083, Holly Pond, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35083, Holly Pond, Alabama is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.58 percent of residents in 35083 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cullman Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.93 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Holly Pond (ZIP Code 35083)

Relocating to Holly Pond, Alabama (ZIP Code 35083), offers a tranquil escape, but a crucial consideration for any resident, particularly those with or at risk for lung cancer, is healthcare access. This report assesses the transportation landscape and its impact on reaching essential medical services, creating a "Lung Cancer Score" to gauge the ease of navigating the healthcare system. Understanding these nuances is vital for informed decision-making, ensuring timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, all critical factors influencing healthcare access.

The primary concern for residents of Holly Pond centers on the distance to specialized lung cancer care. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are in Birmingham, approximately 60 to 70 miles away. This distance translates to significant travel times, impacting the Lung Cancer Score. The most direct route involves utilizing **Highway 69** south towards Cullman, then merging onto **Interstate 65** south. Traffic conditions on I-65, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. Expect a drive time of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the specific Birmingham destination.

Another option involves taking **Highway 278** east to **Highway 31** south, then connecting to I-65. This route, while potentially less congested initially, adds mileage and could result in similar travel times, especially considering the slower speeds on the smaller highways. The Lung Cancer Score is negatively impacted by these extended travel times, as they can hinder timely appointments, treatment, and follow-up care.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area, posing a significant challenge. The absence of a robust public transit system drastically affects the Lung Cancer Score. The local transit authority, if it exists, may offer limited services, but the lack of direct routes to Birmingham hospitals and cancer centers is a major hurdle. Furthermore, ADA-compliant features on any available public transit would be essential for individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern for lung cancer patients. Without reliable public transit, residents must rely on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods, further impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Birmingham area, but their availability in Holly Pond is less certain. Even if available, the cost of a ride-share for a 60-70 mile trip can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access. The Lung Cancer Score is further affected by the uncertainty and potential expense of ride-sharing services. The reliability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is also a critical consideration.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services might provide non-emergency medical transport. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited, particularly for routine appointments. The Lung Cancer Score is impacted by the potential cost and scheduling constraints associated with medical transport.

The Lung Cancer Score is also affected by the availability of local healthcare providers. While Holly Pond may have primary care physicians, the absence of specialized oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapists necessitates travel to Birmingham. The quality of local healthcare infrastructure, including access to diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), is a critical factor. Limited local resources further increase reliance on transportation to Birmingham, negatively impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 35083 is moderate to low. The primary challenges are the distance to specialized cancer care in Birmingham, the lack of reliable public transportation, and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score emphasizes the need for careful planning and consideration for residents with or at risk for lung cancer.

The score reflects the importance of proactive healthcare management. Residents should establish relationships with healthcare providers in Birmingham, ensuring timely appointments and efficient communication. Pre-planning transportation, including identifying backup options, is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score underscores the importance of considering transportation needs when making healthcare decisions.

The Lung Cancer Score is not static; it can be improved. The development of improved public transportation options, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the availability of more affordable medical transport would positively impact the score. The creation of telemedicine services and outreach programs could also mitigate the challenges posed by geographical distance.

The Lung Cancer Score is a valuable tool for residents of Holly Pond and prospective movers. It highlights the importance of considering transportation challenges when making healthcare decisions. It serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical professionals but also about the ability to reach them efficiently and affordably. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents can make informed decisions and proactively manage their healthcare needs.