35654, Russellville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35654, Russellville, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.91 percent of residents in 35654 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russellville Hospital with a distance of 3.66 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Russellville (ZIP Code 35654)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of a new beginning, a fresh start in the heart of Alabama. You're considering a move to Russellville, ZIP code 35654, drawn by its charm and the allure of a slower pace. But beneath the surface of this idyllic vision lies a crucial consideration: healthcare access. This write-up serves as a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, a focused exploration of transportation options to and from medical facilities, vital for anyone facing or at risk of this serious disease. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this community. This information is paramount for informed decision-making, especially when considering the complexities of lung cancer treatment.

The very nature of lung cancer treatment, from diagnosis to ongoing care, demands frequent and reliable transportation. Chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up appointments are not optional. Therefore, understanding the logistical realities of getting to and from healthcare providers is essential. This score evaluates the ease with which residents of 35654 can access crucial medical services, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape. This is not just about convenience; it's about survival.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Healthcare Access**

Russellville, nestled in Franklin County, enjoys a relatively centralized location. However, the availability of specialized lung cancer care is not always immediately accessible. The primary hospital serving the area is North Alabama Medical Center (NAMC) in Florence, approximately 45 miles northeast. This journey, primarily via **US-43** and **US-72**, typically takes around an hour, assuming moderate traffic conditions. This drive time, while manageable, can be a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment, particularly those experiencing fatigue or side effects.

The secondary option for specialized care may be Huntsville Hospital, located approximately 80 miles east, a drive primarily via **US-72**. This trip can take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic, making it a more challenging option for routine appointments. The drive on **US-72** is subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, potentially adding significant time to the commute.

Local clinics and primary care physicians within Russellville, accessible via local roads like **Jackson Avenue** and **Main Street**, provide initial consultations and follow-up care. However, for advanced diagnostics and specialized treatment, patients will likely need to travel to Florence or Huntsville. This underscores the importance of reliable transportation options. The ability to quickly access specialized care is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment, significantly impacting patient outcomes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Russellville and Franklin County are limited. The primary provider is the Franklin County Public TransportationPublic Transportation (FCPT), offering demand-response services. These services require advance booking and operate within a limited geographic area. While FCPT can provide transportation to medical appointments, its availability and scheduling constraints may pose challenges for patients requiring frequent or urgent care.

FCPT vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the lack of a fixed-route bus system and the reliance on pre-booked services can create significant barriers to healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or the ability to arrange for rides. The absence of robust public transit underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in Russellville, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, their availability and pricing can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, becoming a significant financial burden for patients requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in the area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility challenges and offering a more comfortable experience. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **CareRide Medical Transportation:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation services.
* **First Call Medical Transportation:** Provides wheelchair-accessible and stretcher transportation.
* **AmbuCare Medical Transportation:** Specializes in long-distance medical transportation.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Russellville, ZIP code 35654, reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to major medical centers are manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services presents challenges. The limited public transit options and the potential cost of medical transportation services can create significant barriers to healthcare access, especially for individuals with limited financial resources or mobility impairments.

The score emphasizes the need for careful consideration of transportation options when moving to Russellville, especially for those with a history of lung cancer or at increased risk. Planning for reliable transportation, exploring financial assistance programs for medical transport, and understanding the limitations of public transit are crucial steps in ensuring timely access to healthcare.

**Moving to Russellville: A Call for Proactive Planning**

Choosing to move to a new community is a significant life decision. For individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer, this decision requires a thorough assessment of healthcare access. In Russellville, the availability of specialized care is within a reasonable driving distance. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential cost of transportation services necessitate proactive planning.

Before making the move, prospective residents should:

* **Assess their transportation needs:** Consider the frequency of medical appointments and the ability to drive or arrange for rides.
* **Research transportation costs:** Explore the cost of ride-sharing, medical transport, and the potential financial burden.
* **Investigate financial assistance programs:** Explore programs that may help offset transportation costs.
* **Familiarize themselves with local resources:** Contact local healthcare providers and social service agencies to learn about available transportation assistance.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make an informed decision about moving to Russellville, ensuring they have access to the healthcare they need. The journey to a new beginning should never be hampered by a lack of access to essential medical care. This "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for navigating the complexities of healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.