35456, Duncanville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35456, Duncanville, Alabama is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.93 percent of residents in 35456 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 30.17 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 35456**

The air hangs heavy in the heart of Duncanville, Alabama, ZIP code 35456, a place where the whispers of the wind carry tales of resilience and the quiet hum of daily life. But for those facing the formidable challenge of lung cancer, the journey to healthcare becomes a critical component of survival. This analysis delves into the intricate web of **transportation** options available to residents, evaluating their impact on **healthcare access** and providing a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' for this community. Considering **moving to Duncanville**? This information is crucial.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' is not a numerical value but a holistic assessment, considering factors like drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. It aims to illuminate the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape for individuals battling this disease, offering insights for patients, families, and healthcare providers alike.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of **transportation** for many in Duncanville is the personal vehicle. The closest major medical facilities are located in Tuscaloosa, a city approximately 20 miles to the northeast. The most direct route to DCH Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital in Tuscaloosa, is via US Highway 82 East. This highway, a vital artery, typically offers a drive time of around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

However, the journey can be significantly impacted by factors like rush hour, weather, and accidents. The roads themselves, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, particularly near Tuscaloosa. Alternate routes, such as County Road 69, offer alternative pathways, but they often add travel time and may not be suitable for patients requiring immediate medical attention.

For those needing specialized care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, the drive to Birmingham, approximately 90 miles to the northeast, becomes necessary. This journey typically involves taking US Highway 82 East to Interstate 20/59 North. The drive time can range from 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a significant commitment for regular appointments and treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit options in Duncanville and the surrounding areas are limited. The Tuscaloosa Area Regional Transportation Authority (TARTA) provides bus services within Tuscaloosa, but the routes do not extend directly into Duncanville. This lack of direct public transit severely restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

The TARTA system does, however, offer some ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service within its operational boundaries. However, the absence of routes directly serving Duncanville means that individuals relying on public transit would need to find alternative means to reach the TARTA system, adding to the complexity and duration of their journey to healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Tuscaloosa and, to a lesser extent, in the Duncanville area. While these services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, their availability and cost can be significant barriers. Ride-share fares can be expensive, especially for long-distance trips to Birmingham, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can further exacerbate the financial burden.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for patients who are unable to drive themselves. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other private providers offer ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) for appointments and treatments. These services, while essential, can be costly and may require prior authorization from insurance providers. The availability of NEMT services in the Duncanville area is a critical factor in determining the overall 'Lung Cancer Score.'

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for ZIP code 35456 reflects a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. The reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation** creates a significant barrier for those without access to a car or the ability to drive. The limited public transit options further exacerbate this challenge, particularly for individuals with disabilities or limited financial resources.

The availability of ride-share services and medical transport provides some relief, but their cost and availability remain significant concerns. The drive times to Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, while manageable for some, can be a burden for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing fatigue.

The distance to specialized cancer centers in Birmingham adds to the complexity, requiring patients to navigate longer journeys and potentially incur higher **transportation** costs. This can impact the quality of life and the overall treatment experience for patients battling lung cancer.

**Moving to Duncanville: Considering the Healthcare Landscape**

For individuals considering **moving to Duncanville**, it is imperative to carefully assess the **healthcare access** landscape. The availability of reliable **transportation** is paramount. Prospective residents should evaluate their ability to drive, their access to a personal vehicle, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-share or medical transport services.

It is also crucial to research the specific healthcare needs of the individual and the availability of relevant services in the area. This includes assessing the proximity to cancer specialists, radiation therapy centers, and other essential resources.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for ZIP code 35456 highlights the need for community-based solutions to improve **healthcare access**. This could include initiatives to expand public transit options, subsidize ride-share services for patients, or provide financial assistance for medical transport.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Terrain**

The journey to healthcare for lung cancer patients in Duncanville is a complex and challenging one. The 'Lung Cancer Score' reflects the interplay of **transportation** options, healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors. While the community offers resilience and a close-knit atmosphere, the limitations in **healthcare access** pose significant hurdles for those battling this disease.

By understanding the realities of the healthcare landscape, patients, families, and healthcare providers can work together to find solutions and ensure that individuals in Duncanville receive the care they need. This requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing improvements in **transportation**, enhanced access to specialized services, and a commitment to supporting the well-being of those affected by lung cancer.