35544, Beaverton, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35544, Beaverton, Alabama is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.80 percent of residents in 35544 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Medical Center with a distance of 11.52 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 35544

The air hangs heavy with the unspoken anxieties of health, especially when considering the grim realities of lung cancer. In the heart of ZIP Code 35544, nestled amidst the rolling hills and the quiet hum of small-town life, the question of healthcare access takes on a particular urgency. This assessment, a "Lung Cancer Score" if you will, aims to dissect the intricate web of transportation options available to residents, specifically those facing the daunting prospect of lung cancer treatment. We'll examine how easily patients can reach critical medical facilities, focusing on the practicalities of getting from their homes to the care they desperately need.

The score won't be a simple number, but a tapestry woven with threads of drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing possibilities, and the often-overlooked world of medical transportation. It's a deep dive into the landscape of **transportation** options, designed to paint a vivid picture of **healthcare access** challenges and opportunities for those living in 35544. This is especially crucial for anyone considering **moving to Beaverton**, or any part of this ZIP code, and needing to understand the healthcare realities.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 35544 is likely the UAB Medicine Chilton Hospital, located in Clanton, Alabama. This facility, while not a dedicated cancer center, offers a range of services and can serve as a starting point for diagnosis and initial treatment. The journey there, however, presents the first hurdle.

For those with a car, the most direct route involves navigating the local roads. From various points within 35544, a drive to UAB Medicine Chilton Hospital typically takes between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the specific origin point and traffic conditions. The primary arteries for this commute are County Road 42 and Highway 31. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased congestion during peak hours, potentially adding precious minutes to the journey.

The variability in drive times underscores the importance of considering individual circumstances. A patient facing a sudden health crisis, or experiencing the debilitating effects of cancer treatment, may find even a short drive to be an insurmountable challenge. The lack of immediate access to specialized cancer care within the ZIP code necessitates a reliance on external facilities, further complicating the **healthcare access** equation.

Public **transportation** options in 35544 are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves the area. This absence is a significant barrier for those who cannot drive, are unable to afford a car, or are physically unable to operate a vehicle. This leaves a gaping hole in the safety net for those most vulnerable.

The absence of public transit forces residents to rely on alternative methods, such as ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden, especially for patients facing extensive medical bills. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing adds another layer of stress to an already difficult situation.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution, providing non-emergency medical transport for patients who require assistance. Companies like Liberty Medical Transportation and MedTrans Corporation are potential options. These services often cater to individuals needing transport to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or other healthcare-related destinations. While these services can be a lifeline, they often require pre-booking and can be expensive, adding another layer of logistical complexity.

The journey to specialized cancer centers, often located in larger cities like Birmingham, Alabama, further compounds the **transportation** challenge. These trips involve longer drive times, typically exceeding an hour via Interstate 65. This adds to the physical and emotional toll on patients and their families.

The need for regular visits for chemotherapy, radiation, or follow-up appointments makes reliable **transportation** a critical component of successful cancer treatment. The ability to get to these appointments on time, without undue stress or financial burden, is essential for maintaining quality of life and maximizing treatment outcomes.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 35544, therefore, must reflect the multifaceted nature of these **transportation** challenges. It's not just about the distance to the nearest hospital; it's about the availability of options, the cost, the reliability, and the physical and emotional toll on patients.

Consider the impact on someone **moving to Beaverton**. They might be attracted by the community's charm, but they must also factor in the realities of healthcare access. The limited public **transportation** options, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing, and the potential need for long-distance travel to specialized cancer centers all contribute to a complex picture.

The lack of readily available public **transportation** is a significant deficit. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a barrier for those without access to a car or the physical ability to drive. The cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services adds a financial burden. The distance to specialized cancer centers increases the physical and emotional strain on patients and their families.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 35544 must also consider the potential for future improvements. Are there plans to expand public **transportation** options? Are there initiatives to increase the availability of ride-sharing services? Are there efforts to establish partnerships with medical **transportation** providers to offer more affordable options?

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 35544 is a call to action. It highlights the critical need for improved **transportation** infrastructure and services to ensure that all residents have equitable **healthcare access**. This is particularly important for those facing the challenges of lung cancer, a disease that demands timely and comprehensive care. For anyone considering **moving to Beaverton**, understanding these realities is paramount. It's about ensuring that access to life-saving treatment is not dictated by the limitations of **transportation**.