35653, Russellville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35653, Russellville, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.07 percent of residents in 35653 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russellville Hospital with a distance of 2.56 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Russellville (ZIP Code 35653)

Considering a move to Russellville, Alabama, and concerned about lung cancer healthcare access? This report, a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, assesses the ease of transportation to medical facilities offering lung cancer diagnosis and treatment within and around ZIP Code 35653. It considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on timely healthcare access. The goal is to provide a realistic picture for prospective residents, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of transportation, enabling informed decisions about your healthcare.

The core of this assessment revolves around the principle that prompt access to specialized medical care is crucial for lung cancer patients. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, the "Lung Cancer Score" evaluates the practicality and efficiency of reaching key healthcare providers from various locations within Russellville, factoring in travel time, cost, and accessibility. The higher the score, the better the transportation options and the greater the ease of healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

Russellville, nestled in Franklin County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are US-43, a major north-south thoroughfare, and AL-24, which runs east-west. These highways connect Russellville to larger cities like Decatur and Muscle Shoals, where more specialized medical services are available.

Driving times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The Northwest Alabama Cancer Center in Russellville itself provides initial consultations and some treatments. Reaching this facility from most points within 35653 is generally a short drive, typically under 15 minutes, especially if you reside near the town center. This offers a significant advantage for patients needing frequent appointments or urgent care.

For more advanced treatments, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, patients often need to travel to larger hospitals. Huntsville Hospital, located approximately 70 miles east via US-72, is a major regional medical center. The drive can take between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Similarly, the drive to North Alabama Medical Center in Muscle Shoals, about 30 miles west via AL-20 and US-43, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour.

Traffic, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Rush hour on US-43 and AL-24 can cause delays, potentially increasing travel times to critical appointments. Therefore, residents should consider their proximity to these highways and plan their commutes accordingly.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Russellville is limited. The Franklin County Transit Authority provides bus services within the county. However, these services may not directly serve major healthcare facilities or offer frequent routes, particularly during evenings and weekends.

The availability of public transit to access lung cancer healthcare is a significant challenge. The buses operate on fixed routes and schedules, which may not align with the needs of patients requiring frequent appointments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Furthermore, the lack of direct routes to specialized medical centers outside of Russellville, like Huntsville Hospital, presents a considerable obstacle.

While the Franklin County Transit Authority aims to provide ADA-accessible services, the limited scope of its operations necessitates careful planning for individuals with mobility challenges. Passengers with disabilities should confirm the availability of accessible features, such as ramps or lifts, and plan their trips in advance.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Russellville, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, but availability and cost vary.

The convenience of ride-sharing and medical transport can be beneficial for patients who cannot drive or lack access to personal vehicles. However, the cost and reliability of these services should be carefully considered. Patients should research available options and compare prices to ensure they can afford the transportation needed for their healthcare.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Russellville reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. While the town offers immediate access to some healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing create challenges for accessing specialized lung cancer care.

The score will be influenced by factors such as the patient's location within 35653, their ability to drive, their financial resources, and their mobility needs. Residents near US-43 and AL-24, with access to a personal vehicle, will likely have better access to healthcare. However, those reliant on public transit or ride-sharing may face greater difficulties.

The proximity to the Northwest Alabama Cancer Center is a significant advantage, providing initial consultations and some treatments within a short distance. However, the need to travel to larger hospitals for advanced care introduces a layer of complexity. The commute to Huntsville Hospital or North Alabama Medical Center requires careful planning, considering traffic, travel time, and the availability of transportation.

**Moving to Russellville: Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Russellville, understanding the "Lung Cancer Score" is crucial. This analysis highlights the importance of transportation planning in healthcare access. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, considering their ability to drive, their access to a personal vehicle, and their financial resources.

If you are a lung cancer patient or at high risk, evaluate the available healthcare services in the area and the ease of reaching them. Factor in the potential costs of transportation, the reliability of public transit or ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not merely a number; it is a framework for making informed decisions about your healthcare. By understanding the transportation landscape in Russellville, you can proactively plan for your healthcare needs and ensure timely access to the specialized care required for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare, considering the realities of transportation and healthcare access in this community.