35670, Somerville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35670, Somerville, Alabama is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.08 percent of residents in 35670 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lawrence Medical Center with a distance of 31.22 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Somerville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35670)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding immediate and comprehensive healthcare access. For residents of Somerville, Alabama (ZIP code 35670), the journey to treatment, the very act of *transportation*, becomes a crucial factor in their fight. This write-up provides a Lung Cancer Score, evaluating *healthcare access* within and around Somerville, focusing on the practicalities of getting to vital appointments. We’ll examine the available modes of *transportation*, from personal vehicles to public transit, and how they impact a patient’s ability to receive timely and effective care. This is particularly relevant for anyone *moving to Somerville*, considering the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any Lung Cancer Score rests on the availability of specialized medical facilities. In this assessment, we'll consider the nearest hospitals equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer, specifically those offering pulmonology, oncology, radiation therapy, and surgical services. The primary facilities serving Somerville include Decatur Morgan Hospital in Decatur, Alabama, and Huntsville Hospital in Huntsville, Alabama. These hospitals represent the benchmarks for comprehensive lung cancer care in the region.

The most common mode of *transportation* in Somerville is the personal vehicle. For residents, the drive to Decatur Morgan Hospital involves navigating Highway 31, a major north-south artery. The distance is approximately 15 miles, and under normal traffic conditions, the drive time is typically 20-30 minutes. This is a relatively manageable commute, offering reasonable *healthcare access* for those with personal vehicles. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend this time, potentially impacting appointment schedules and treatment plans.

Traveling to Huntsville Hospital presents a longer commute. The journey typically involves taking Highway 31 north to Interstate 565. The distance is about 30 miles, and the drive time averages 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. While the interstate offers a faster route, the increased distance and potential for traffic delays, especially around Huntsville, can be a significant challenge for patients. This extended travel time can be particularly burdensome for those undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing debilitating side effects.

Public *transportation* options in Somerville are limited. The City of Decatur operates a bus service, but it primarily serves Decatur and the surrounding areas. There is no direct public transit route connecting Somerville to either Decatur Morgan Hospital or Huntsville Hospital. This lack of public *transportation* significantly restricts *healthcare access* for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of reliable public transit is a considerable disadvantage for those *moving to Somerville* and reliant on public options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative *transportation* option. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, especially for frequent trips to and from medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas like Somerville. This unreliability presents a potential barrier to *healthcare access*, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Medical *transportation* services, such as Med-Trans and American Medical Response (AMR), provide specialized *transportation* for patients requiring medical assistance. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, they often require prior arrangements and can be expensive, making them less accessible for routine appointments. While essential for patients with specific medical needs, their cost and scheduling limitations can pose challenges.

The Lung Cancer Score for Somerville, Alabama, is therefore influenced by the availability and accessibility of *transportation* options. The primary advantage is the proximity to Decatur Morgan Hospital, accessible via Highway 31. However, the lack of public *transportation* and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing services introduce significant challenges. The longer commute to Huntsville Hospital further complicates *healthcare access*.

For individuals *moving to Somerville* with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, a careful assessment of *transportation* needs is crucial. The ability to drive or secure reliable *transportation* is paramount. The absence of robust public transit options necessitates proactive planning, including exploring ride-sharing alternatives, medical *transportation* services, and support networks for assistance.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a crucial role in ensuring *healthcare access* for individuals with disabilities. While the Decatur bus service is not directly accessible from Somerville, the hospitals themselves are required to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring accessibility within their facilities. This includes wheelchair access, ramps, elevators, and other accommodations. However, the journey to these facilities remains a significant hurdle.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. Cancer support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the healthcare system. These resources can help patients manage their treatment, cope with side effects, and access financial assistance. Access to these support services, often located within the hospitals or community centers, is crucial for overall well-being.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Somerville, Alabama (35670), is moderate. While the proximity to Decatur Morgan Hospital offers reasonable *healthcare access* for those with personal vehicles, the lack of public *transportation* and the potential costs of ride-sharing services create barriers. The longer commute to Huntsville Hospital further complicates the situation. For individuals *moving to Somerville*, careful consideration of *transportation* needs and the availability of support services is essential to ensure timely and effective lung cancer care. Proactive planning, including identifying reliable *transportation* options and establishing a support network, is critical for navigating the healthcare landscape.