35572, Houston, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35572, Houston, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.28 percent of residents in 35572 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lakeland Community Hospital with a distance of 21.43 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Access to Care in ZIP Code 35572**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as critical as lung cancer, is a multifaceted challenge. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 35572, examining the accessibility of lung cancer treatment facilities, considering various transportation options and their inherent limitations. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical care within this specific geographic area, an essential consideration for anyone contemplating a move to Houston or seeking healthcare access.

ZIP Code 35572, nestled within the broader landscape of the Houston metropolitan area, presents a unique set of transportation circumstances. The ability to reach specialized medical centers is paramount for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This score weighs the availability of various transportation modes, travel times, and the presence of specialized services like oncology and radiation therapy, all crucial components of effective lung cancer care.

**Drive Time and Roadways**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries of transportation in and around 35572 are the major roadways. Commuting to healthcare in a car is often the default, but it's important to understand the time commitment. Travel times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Accessing the Texas Medical Center (TMC), a global hub for healthcare, requires navigating the complex network of highways. The primary route involves using Interstate 610 (the Loop), a vital artery that encircles much of Houston. From 35572, reaching TMC typically entails a drive of approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. During peak rush hour, this commute can easily stretch beyond an hour.

Another option is to use US-59 (Eastex Freeway), which provides a more direct route. However, this freeway is notorious for heavy congestion, particularly during peak hours. The drive time via US-59 can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, often depending on the time of day. The presence of multiple access points, including feeder roads, adds to the complexity of navigating these roadways.

Smaller roads, such as FM 1960 and Beltway 8, offer alternative routes, but they often involve more stop-and-go traffic and may not be as efficient. These routes are often used to bypass major congestion, but they can add considerable time to the commute.

**Public Transit**

Houston's public transit system, operated by the MetroMetropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO), provides an alternative to driving, but it has its limitations. Several bus routes serve the 35572 area, but the frequency of service and the travel times to major medical centers can be significant drawbacks.

The primary bus routes that serve the area include the 85, 86, and 99. These routes connect to various points within the city, including the downtown area, where transfers to other routes may be necessary to reach the Texas Medical Center. The travel time via public transit to TMC can easily exceed 1.5 to 2 hours, including transfer times.

METRO's bus fleet includes vehicles with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of these features and the overall accessibility of the system can vary. The reliance on bus schedules and the potential for delays can add to the stress of traveling for medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation and can be a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the time of day, distance, and demand.

The availability of ride-sharing services in 35572 is generally good, but the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The travel time to TMC via ride-sharing is typically comparable to driving, but the cost can be higher.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide specialized services for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often include door-to-door transportation and assistance with boarding and disembarking.

The cost of medical transportation services can be substantial, but they can be essential for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit. The availability of these services in 35572 is generally good, but it's important to research and compare providers to find the best option.

**Healthcare Access and Lung Cancer Treatment**

The availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. The Texas Medical Center (TMC) is home to several world-renowned hospitals that offer comprehensive lung cancer care, including MD Anderson Cancer Center, Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, and Houston Methodist Hospital.

These facilities provide a full range of services, including diagnosis, staging, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The proximity of these facilities to 35572 is a significant advantage, but the challenges of transportation can still pose a barrier to access.

The availability of local healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and pulmonologists, is also important. These providers can provide initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing support for individuals with lung cancer. The quality of care and the ease of access to these providers can significantly impact the overall healthcare experience.

**Moving to Houston and Lung Cancer Considerations**

For individuals considering a move to Houston, the availability of healthcare access is a critical factor. The presence of the Texas Medical Center is a major draw, but the challenges of transportation must be carefully considered.

ZIP Code 35572 offers a mix of transportation options, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can be significant drawbacks. Public transit, while available, can be time-consuming and may not be suitable for all individuals. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternative options, but the cost can be a factor.

Individuals with lung cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate the transportation options and the proximity of specialized treatment centers when considering a move to 35572. The "Lung Cancer Score" for this area should reflect the overall accessibility of healthcare, considering all the factors discussed above.

**Conclusion: Lung Cancer Score for 35572**

Based on the analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 35572 is moderate. While the proximity to the Texas Medical Center offers access to world-class lung cancer treatment facilities, the challenges of transportation, including traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit, can pose significant barriers to access.

Individuals in 35572 must rely heavily on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transportation services to reach specialized healthcare. The cost of these options and the potential for delays can add to the stress and burden of managing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would be improved by enhanced public transit options, including more frequent service and direct routes to major medical centers. Investment in infrastructure improvements to reduce traffic congestion would also benefit residents. For those considering a move to Houston, 35572 offers access to excellent healthcare, but careful consideration of transportation needs is essential.