35750, Hazel Green, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35750, Hazel Green, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.02 percent of residents in 35750 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Huntsville Hospital with a distance of 15.08 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hazel Green, Alabama (ZIP Code 35750)

Considering a move to the tranquil embrace of Hazel Green, Alabama (ZIP Code 35750)? Beyond the allure of rolling hills and friendly faces, understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially if you or a loved one face the complexities of lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to essential medical facilities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this charming community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a subjective assessment, considering factors like proximity to specialized care, ease of travel, and available transportation alternatives. It's not a definitive medical evaluation, but rather a practical guide to navigating the healthcare landscape.

Hazel Green, nestled in the northern reaches of Alabama, offers a blend of rural serenity and proximity to the bustling city of Huntsville. This duality presents both opportunities and challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals requiring specialized lung cancer treatment. The core of this assessment revolves around the ability to reach critical medical resources efficiently.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries to Care**

For residents of Hazel Green, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The journey to specialized lung cancer care often involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. Huntsville Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, is a crucial destination.

From Hazel Green, the most direct route to Huntsville Hospital typically involves heading south on **Highway 231**. This route offers a relatively straightforward drive, but traffic conditions can vary, especially during peak hours. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic flow. The hospital is located near the intersection of **Governors Drive** and **Memorial Parkway (US-231/US-431)**.

Another viable option involves taking **Highway 53** south, connecting to **Interstate 565** west. This route offers a faster, more direct access to Huntsville, but it might involve navigating a slightly more complex interchange. Drive time on this route is similar to the Highway 231 route, typically ranging from 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

For those seeking specialized cancer care, the Huntsville Hospital Cancer Center is a key destination. This facility offers comprehensive services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support. The drive times mentioned above apply to this location as well.

Considering the potential for fatigue, side effects from treatment, and the need for frequent appointments, the drive times are an important factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." Shorter drive times contribute to a higher score, indicating greater ease of access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Hazel Green are limited, which significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." The Madison County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides bus service within the Huntsville metropolitan area. However, service to Hazel Green is infrequent and primarily focuses on connecting to the city center.

Currently, there is no direct public transit route from Hazel Green to Huntsville Hospital. This necessitates a multi-leg journey, involving a bus ride to a central transfer point, followed by another bus to the hospital. Such a journey can be time-consuming and potentially challenging for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

The MCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the limited frequency and indirect routes present significant barriers to healthcare access for those relying on public transit.

The lack of convenient public transportation significantly lowers the "Lung Cancer Score" for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hazel Green, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services improves the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for those who are unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the cost and potential for delays should be considered.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for Hazel Green (35750): A Holistic View**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Hazel Green, Alabama (35750) is moderate. While the proximity to Huntsville offers access to specialized care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges.

The drive times to Huntsville Hospital and the Cancer Center are reasonable, offering relatively quick access to essential medical resources. The availability of ride-sharing services provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles. However, the infrequent public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services are significant drawbacks.

**Moving to Hazel Green: A Proactive Approach**

For individuals considering a move to Hazel Green, especially those facing lung cancer, careful planning is essential. Prioritize the following:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive or access a personal vehicle. If you cannot drive, explore ride-sharing, medical transport, and the potential cost of these services.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify the specific cancer specialists and treatment centers you require. Verify their proximity and accessibility from your potential residence.
* **Consider Proximity to Amenities:** While Hazel Green offers a tranquil lifestyle, consider the distance to essential services like pharmacies, grocery stores, and support groups.
* **Plan for Appointments:** Factor in travel time and potential delays when scheduling medical appointments. Allow ample time for travel, especially during peak hours.

Moving to Hazel Green can be a positive experience. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively addressing healthcare access concerns, you can ensure a smoother transition and prioritize your well-being. Remember that healthcare access is a dynamic aspect of any community, and continuous evaluation and planning are crucial for those navigating the complexities of lung cancer.