35501, Jasper, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35501, Jasper, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.80 percent of residents in 35501 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Walker Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 0.93 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jasper, Alabama (ZIP Code 35501)

Considering a move to Jasper, Alabama (ZIP code 35501)? Assessing your lung cancer risk and the ease with which you can access vital healthcare services is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, focusing on transportation options, drive times, and available resources, ensuring you're well-informed about healthcare access in your new home. Understanding these factors is crucial for proactive health management, especially for those with a history of smoking or other risk factors.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a medical diagnosis; it's a framework for evaluating the logistical challenges of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare in Jasper. It considers the distance, time, and available transportation modes to key medical facilities. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score highlights potential transportation barriers.

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

The primary healthcare provider in Jasper is Walker Baptist Medical Center, a vital hub for medical services, including oncology. Accessing this facility is a core component of our score. From many residential areas within 35501, the drive to Walker Baptist is relatively straightforward. Residents often navigate using the main thoroughfares.

For those residing in the heart of Jasper, the journey typically involves a short drive along US Highway 78, the primary east-west artery. This highway, generally well-maintained, provides direct access to the hospital. Expect a drive time of under 10 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions.

Residents in the northern portions of the ZIP code, perhaps near the Smith Lake area, might utilize Alabama Highway 69 to reach US 78. This route, though scenic, could add an extra 10-15 minutes to the commute, depending on traffic and the specific location.

For those residing south of Jasper, especially near the Bankhead National Forest, the drive might involve a combination of county roads and US 78. While the roads are generally paved, the journey could take upwards of 20 minutes, potentially impacting timely access to medical appointments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in Jasper are limited, which significantly impacts our "Lung Cancer Score." The city does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This absence poses a considerable challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive due to health concerns.

While the lack of a formal public transit system is a significant drawback, residents can explore alternative options. The availability of ADA-accessible transportation is a critical factor in our scoring. The lack of a well-established public transit system necessitates reliance on other modes of transportation, which we will explore in the next sections.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Jasper, offering a potential solution for transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Booking a ride in advance is advisable, especially for early morning appointments or those scheduled during peak hours.

Medical transport services provide specialized assistance for individuals needing transportation to medical appointments. These services often cater to patients with mobility issues or those requiring medical assistance during transit. Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including, but not limited to, First Response Medical Transport and LifeCare Ambulance Service.

These services typically require pre-booking and may involve coordination with healthcare providers to ensure appropriate medical support during the journey. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, level of care required, and insurance coverage. It's crucial to research available medical transport options and understand the associated costs before relocating.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Evaluation**

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers several factors beyond transportation. The availability of oncology specialists, diagnostic imaging services (CT scans, PET scans), and radiation therapy facilities within Walker Baptist Medical Center is crucial. The presence of a multidisciplinary cancer care team, including oncologists, surgeons, nurses, and support staff, significantly enhances the overall score.

Access to preventative care, such as lung cancer screening programs for high-risk individuals, also contributes to the score. The availability of smoking cessation programs and resources within the community further strengthens the score, promoting proactive health management.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for 35501: A Summary**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 35501 reflects a mixed landscape. The relatively short drive times to Walker Baptist Medical Center via US 78 are a positive factor. However, the limited public transportation options and reliance on ride-sharing services and medical transport providers present potential challenges, especially for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offers viable alternatives, but their reliability and cost must be considered. The presence of comprehensive cancer care services within Walker Baptist Medical Center is a significant advantage, ensuring access to essential treatments and support.

**Moving to Jasper: Informed Decision-Making**

If you are considering moving to Jasper, Alabama (35501), and have concerns about lung cancer or other health issues, this "Lung Cancer Score" analysis provides essential insights. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the lack of robust public transit necessitates careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options.

Thoroughly research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers. Explore the healthcare services offered at Walker Baptist Medical Center, including oncology specialists, diagnostic imaging, and support programs.

By understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access in Jasper, you can make an informed decision and proactively manage your health needs. This analysis empowers you to assess the feasibility of accessing timely and appropriate healthcare services, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home. The "Lung Cancer Score" is a tool for informed decision-making, facilitating a proactive approach to healthcare access in the heart of Alabama.