35474, Moundville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35474, Moundville, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.51 percent of residents in 35474 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary S Harper Geriatric Psychiatry Center with a distance of 16.25 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Moundville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35474)

Moundville, Alabama, a community steeped in history and natural beauty, presents a unique set of circumstances when considering healthcare access, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up analyzes the complexities of transportation within and around ZIP Code 35474, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking timely and effective lung cancer care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape in this specific location. If you're *moving to Moundville*, understanding these factors is crucial.

The foundation of this score lies in evaluating the availability and efficiency of *transportation* options. For lung cancer patients, timely access to specialists, treatments, and follow-up appointments is critical. Delays can significantly impact outcomes, emphasizing the importance of reliable and readily available transport.

**Driving Dynamics: The Road to Recovery**

The primary arteries of *transportation* in and around Moundville are US Highway 80 and Alabama Highway 69. These roads serve as vital lifelines, connecting residents to larger medical centers and specialized care facilities. However, the drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic, time of day, and weather conditions.

The nearest major medical hub is Tuscaloosa, approximately 20 miles northeast of Moundville. A drive to Tuscaloosa typically involves navigating Alabama Highway 69, which can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes under normal conditions. This journey is relatively straightforward, but the absence of significant alternative routes can pose a challenge during unforeseen circumstances, such as accidents or road closures.

For more specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel further. Birmingham, with its concentration of tertiary care hospitals, is approximately 100 miles away, accessible primarily via US Highway 82 and Interstate 20/59. This trip can easily consume two hours or more, making it a considerable undertaking for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms that require immediate attention.

The condition of the roads themselves is a factor. While generally well-maintained, potholes and uneven surfaces can exacerbate discomfort for patients, particularly those experiencing fatigue or pain. The lack of dedicated bus lanes or expressways further contributes to potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Moundville are extremely limited. The area does not have a comprehensive public bus system that would readily connect residents to healthcare facilities. This absence is a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their condition or other limitations.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is also a crucial consideration. While some regional *transportation* providers might offer limited services to residents, it is imperative to confirm the availability of vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas, offering a convenient alternative to traditional *transportation*. However, their availability in Moundville is not guaranteed. The frequency of ride-sharing vehicles and the associated wait times can vary significantly, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility and medical needs. Several medical *transportation* companies operate in the region, including but not limited to First Choice Medical Transport and American Medical Response. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Moundville, Alabama, reflects the confluence of these *transportation* factors. It acknowledges the dependence on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* options.

The score should consider the following:

* **Drive Time to Treatment Centers:** The average drive time to Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, accounting for potential delays due to traffic and road conditions.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The absence of a reliable public bus system and the limited accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and frequency of ride-sharing services, considering potential wait times and cost.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical *transportation* services.
* **Patient Support Networks:** The presence of family, friends, or community organizations that can provide *transportation* assistance.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the "Lung Cancer Score" and enhance healthcare access for residents of Moundville, several initiatives could be considered:

* **Advocating for Public Transit:** Supporting efforts to establish or expand public *transportation* options, including routes that connect Moundville to Tuscaloosa and other medical facilities.
* **Promoting Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Educating residents about the availability and accessibility of ride-sharing services, and encouraging partnerships with local healthcare providers.
* **Expanding Medical Transport Services:** Facilitating the growth of medical *transportation* providers in the area, ensuring the availability of accessible vehicles and trained personnel.
* **Supporting Patient Assistance Programs:** Promoting and expanding patient assistance programs that can help cover the cost of *transportation* and other healthcare-related expenses.
* **Community Collaboration:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to address *transportation* challenges and improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Moundville, Alabama, highlights the complex relationship between *transportation* and healthcare access. While the area offers a degree of accessibility via personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical *transportation* pose significant barriers for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. By understanding these challenges and actively pursuing solutions, the community can work towards ensuring that all residents of Moundville have timely and equitable access to the care they need. If you are *moving to Moundville*, be prepared to navigate these *transportation* realities.