35586, Sulligent, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.05 percent of residents in 35586 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Medical Center with a distance of 19.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sulligent, Alabama (ZIP Code 35586)

The air in Sulligent, Alabama, whispers of a close-knit community, of rolling hills and the quiet rhythm of rural life. But beneath the surface of this tranquil existence lies a stark reality: the potential for a lung cancer diagnosis. And for residents of ZIP Code 35586, the journey to potentially life-saving healthcare, particularly specialized oncology services, is often a complex dance with transportation limitations. This write-up aims to illuminate the "Lung Cancer Score" for this area, focusing on the challenges and opportunities surrounding **healthcare access**, specifically concerning **transportation** options for those seeking diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Sulligent** or currently residing there, as it directly impacts the quality of life and health outcomes.

The primary challenge for Sulligent residents is distance. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers, equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment modalities, are located in larger cities, requiring significant travel. The most direct route often involves navigating the rural roads and highways of Alabama. Driving to the nearest major medical hubs, such as the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital or the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, Mississippi, can be a considerable undertaking.

The most common route to UAB from Sulligent involves taking **Highway 278** east, connecting to **Highway 78** toward Birmingham. The drive, covering approximately 130 miles, typically takes between two and three hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey is not merely a matter of miles; it's a test of endurance for patients already battling a serious illness, and a significant burden on caregivers. The return trip, after potentially undergoing treatment or consultation, can be equally exhausting.

Alternatively, traveling north towards Tupelo, Mississippi, offers another healthcare option. This route involves utilizing **Highway 187** north, connecting to **Highway 78** west. The drive to Tupelo is shorter, approximately 70 miles, and usually takes around an hour and a half. However, the quality of care and specialized services available may vary compared to larger hospitals like UAB.

Public transportation options in Sulligent are severely limited. There are no established bus routes or train services that directly connect the town to the larger medical centers. This lack of **transportation** infrastructure presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, or those who cannot afford the expense of private **transportation**. The absence of public transit exacerbates the existing healthcare disparities in the region.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the larger metropolitan areas, including Birmingham and Tupelo. However, their presence in Sulligent is sporadic, and their availability is often unreliable. The cost of a ride-share for a long-distance journey to a cancer center can be prohibitive, adding another layer of financial strain to an already difficult situation. This makes ride-sharing a less viable option for many residents seeking regular medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers, are available in the area. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and they may not be covered by all insurance plans. Furthermore, the availability of NEMT services can be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially leading to delays in accessing care.

For those considering **moving to Sulligent**, understanding these **transportation** limitations is crucial. The decision to relocate should involve careful consideration of the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of **transportation** options, and the potential financial burden associated with accessing medical care. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, especially those with a higher risk of lung cancer, should prioritize proximity to comprehensive medical facilities and reliable **transportation** networks.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Sulligent, therefore, is negatively impacted by several factors. The long distances to specialized cancer centers, the limited public **transportation** options, the unreliable ride-sharing services, and the potentially costly medical **transportation** services all contribute to a lower score. This situation underscores the need for community-based solutions to improve **healthcare access** for residents of ZIP Code 35586.

One potential solution is the expansion of local healthcare services. Increasing the availability of primary care physicians, offering mobile screening programs for lung cancer, and establishing telemedicine capabilities could significantly improve **healthcare access** within the community. These initiatives could reduce the need for long-distance travel for routine check-ups and initial consultations.

Another critical area for improvement is the development of **transportation** solutions. This could involve partnering with local organizations to establish a community-based **transportation** program, providing subsidized rides for patients, or advocating for the expansion of public **transportation** services. The establishment of a dedicated **transportation** service specifically for medical appointments would be a significant step forward.

Furthermore, raising awareness about lung cancer risk factors and promoting early detection are essential. Educating residents about the importance of regular screenings, encouraging smoking cessation, and providing access to resources for quitting smoking can help reduce the incidence of lung cancer and improve patient outcomes. Community outreach programs, health fairs, and educational campaigns can play a vital role in this effort.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Sulligent is not a static measure. It is a reflection of the current **healthcare access** landscape and the challenges faced by residents. By acknowledging these challenges and actively pursuing solutions, the community can work towards improving the score and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the care they need, regardless of their location or **transportation** limitations. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, local government, and the residents themselves.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare environment in Sulligent that supports early detection, timely treatment, and comprehensive care for individuals battling lung cancer. This requires a commitment to improving **transportation** options, expanding local healthcare services, and fostering a community that prioritizes health and well-being. This will not only improve the "Lung Cancer Score" but also enhance the overall quality of life for everyone **moving to Sulligent** and those who already call it home.