35224, Birmingham, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35224, Birmingham, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.69 percent of residents in 35224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Princeton Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 5.20 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 35224

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, is a critical factor in overall well-being. This analysis examines the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options for residents of ZIP Code 35224, a residential area in Birmingham, Alabama. We'll delve into the transportation landscape, assessing drive times, public transit, and alternative options, to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease with which individuals can access vital healthcare services. This information is invaluable for current residents and those considering moving to Birmingham, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in 35224 is proximity to medical facilities specializing in lung cancer treatment. The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, a nationally recognized center, is a significant draw for patients in the region. Additionally, St. Vincent's Birmingham, offering comprehensive cancer care, is another crucial resource. The drive times to these facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns and the specific location within the ZIP Code.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the most direct route to UAB Hospital from 35224 often involves navigating **Interstate 65 (I-65)** south. Depending on the starting point within the ZIP Code, residents might utilize **Cahaba River Road** or **Overton Road** to connect with **I-65**. During peak hours, the commute can be significantly impacted by congestion. Another option involves taking **Highway 280** west to **U.S. 31**, then north toward the hospital. This route can be less congested than **I-65** at times, but still experiences heavy traffic. The drive to St. Vincent's, located off **Cahaba River Road**, is generally more straightforward, but also subject to rush-hour delays.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its availability and efficiency are key considerations. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, provides bus service throughout the city. Several routes traverse 35224, potentially connecting residents to hospitals and medical centers. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be limited.

The BJCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating. This is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations who may be undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects. Investigating the specific routes and their accessibility features is critical for assessing the viability of public transit for lung cancer patients. Detailed information on route schedules, stop locations, and ADA features is available on the BJCTA website.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option. These services offer on-demand rides, which can be particularly beneficial for appointments and treatments when driving oneself is not feasible. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, especially with frequent appointments. Availability, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density, is another factor to consider.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, represent a specialized option. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transportation offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can provide door-to-door assistance, easing the burden of travel for patients with limited mobility or other health challenges. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 35224 must consider these factors. The score should reflect the ease of access to lung cancer specialists, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other essential services. Drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services all contribute to the overall score. The score should also acknowledge the financial implications of each transportation method.

For instance, a resident living near **Cahaba River Road** might have relatively easy access to St. Vincent's, potentially resulting in a higher score. Conversely, someone located further from major roadways and reliant on public transit might face a lower score due to longer travel times and potential accessibility challenges. The score should be dynamic, acknowledging the impact of traffic patterns, especially during peak hours.

The decision to move to Birmingham, or to remain in 35224, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. For individuals managing or at risk of lung cancer, the availability and convenience of transportation to medical facilities are paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating these factors, enabling informed decisions about healthcare and overall well-being. This analysis underscores the importance of considering transportation infrastructure and healthcare access when evaluating any location.