35130, Quinton, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35130, Quinton, Alabama is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.76 percent of residents in 35130 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Walker Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 15.71 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 35130

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and informed action. For residents of ZIP Code 35130 (Quinton, Alabama), accessing timely and quality healthcare is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, a crucial element in determining the feasibility of receiving lung cancer treatment, and provides a ‘Lung Cancer Score’ reflecting the challenges and opportunities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, offering a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering moving to Quinton.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in efficient transportation. In 35130, the primary method of transport is by personal vehicle. The major thoroughfares are the scenic Highway 78, and the less traveled, but equally important, County Road 41. Driving times to the nearest healthcare facilities, particularly those specializing in oncology, are critical. The drive to Birmingham, home to major hospitals like UAB Hospital and St. Vincent's Birmingham, can be a significant undertaking.

A drive to Birmingham via Highway 78 during peak hours can easily exceed an hour, particularly if one is headed to the UAB Hospital. This can be a burden for someone undergoing frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. Even a trip to a closer hospital, like Brookwood Baptist Medical Center, will be a 45-minute drive. County Road 41 offers a slightly less congested route, but it is also a more rural road.

Public transportation options in 35130 are limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) operates a network of buses, but their routes and schedules may not be suitable for medical appointments. The primary route serving the area is the #28, which runs along Highway 78. However, the frequency of the #28 is limited, and the stops are not always conveniently located near medical facilities. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA) is a crucial consideration. While the BJCTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, the availability and ease of access to specific routes from Quinton to healthcare facilities is a factor.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Birmingham metropolitan area, but their availability in Quinton can be variable. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays and costs. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, becoming a significant financial burden, especially for those undergoing long-term treatment.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like MedTrans or CareRide, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. However, the availability of these services in 35130 and their associated costs should be investigated.

Considering these factors, the Lung Cancer Score for 35130 reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The score is a composite measure, incorporating drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing reliability, and the availability of medical transportation.

**Lung Cancer Score for 35130:**

* **Drive Time:** Moderate to High. The reliance on personal vehicles and the distance to major healthcare facilities contribute to a moderate to high score.
* **Public Transit:** Low. The limited bus routes, infrequent schedules, and potential accessibility issues contribute to a low score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Moderate. Availability is variable, and costs can be a concern.
* **Medical Transportation:** Moderate. The availability of specialized services may be limited, and costs need to be considered.

**Overall Score:**

Based on these factors, the Lung Cancer Score for 35130 is **Moderate to Low**. This indicates that residents face significant challenges in accessing timely and convenient healthcare.

**Recommendations:**

* **Plan Ahead:** Patients and their families should meticulously plan transportation to medical appointments, considering traffic conditions and potential delays.
* **Explore All Options:** Investigate all transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.
* **Contact Healthcare Providers:** Discuss transportation needs with healthcare providers and explore any assistance programs or resources they may offer.
* **Consider Proximity:** When choosing a healthcare provider, consider the proximity to 35130 and the ease of access.
* **Advocate for Improvements:** Advocate for improved public transit options and increased availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

For those considering moving to Quinton, the Lung Cancer Score should be a significant factor in the decision-making process. The availability of healthcare access is critical for individuals facing lung cancer. The limitations in transportation options underscore the importance of careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely and effective treatment. This score is not a definitive judgment but rather a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in 35130. It is essential to supplement this information with individual research and consultation with healthcare professionals.