The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36009, Brantley, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
54.71 percent of residents in 36009 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crenshaw Community Hospital with a distance of 7.87 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 36009, Brantley, Alabama
Lung Cancer Score | 3 |
---|---|
People Score | 27 |
Provider Score | 5 |
Hospital Score | 28 |
Travel Score | 27 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 36009 | Brantley | Alabama |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.34 | 0.34 | 1.85 |
1 Car | 9.86 | 9.86 | 18.18 |
2 Cars | 49.20 | 49.20 | 39.34 |
3 or More Cars | 40.60 | 40.60 | 40.63 |
Vehicular Access in 36009, Brantley, Alabama
**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 36009**
The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, becomes a critical factor in treatment and survival. In ZIP Code 36009, centered around Brantley, Alabama, the accessibility of specialized medical care, specifically pulmonology and oncology services, is significantly shaped by transportation options. This write-up examines the available modes of transport, their associated challenges, and the overall impact on a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" for residents.
The score reflects the ease with which a resident can access timely and quality lung cancer care. It considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests significant barriers.
**The Road to Recovery: Driving Times and Challenges**
For residents of Brantley, personal vehicles are often the primary mode of transportation. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in larger cities, demanding considerable travel. A drive to Dothan, approximately 50 miles southeast, could take around an hour, primarily via US Highway 84 East. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, could extend this commute.
Alternatively, Montgomery, roughly 90 miles northwest, offers additional options. The journey would involve navigating US Highway 331 North and then Interstate 65 South, potentially taking one and a half to two hours, depending on traffic and construction. These extended drive times can be particularly challenging for patients experiencing fatigue, pain, or other symptoms associated with lung cancer.
The condition of local roads is another factor. While US Highway 84 and US Highway 331 are generally well-maintained, secondary roads within Brantley might be less so. This could impact vehicle reliability and the comfort of patients during transport. The financial burden of vehicle maintenance, fuel costs, and parking fees at medical facilities also contributes to the overall "Lung Cancer Score."
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Public transportation options within ZIP Code 36009 are severely limited. There is no established local bus system. This lack of public transit significantly diminishes healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their condition.
The nearest regional bus service, if any, would likely require travel to a larger city, such as Dothan or Montgomery, adding substantial time and complexity to the journey. Even if such services were available, they would likely lack the frequency and direct routes needed for regular medical appointments.
ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. Any public transit options would need to be fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act to accommodate patients with mobility limitations. However, the absence of a robust public transit system in Brantley renders this point largely moot.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Potential Solutions**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in larger cities like Dothan and Montgomery. However, their presence in Brantley is less certain, and their availability might be limited. Even if available, the cost of ride-sharing for long-distance trips to medical facilities could be prohibitive for many residents.
Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for patients who require assistance but do not need an ambulance. These services typically require pre-booking and can be costly, but they offer a valuable option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation.
**The "Lung Cancer Score" and the Decision to Move to Brantley**
The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 36009 would be significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. The lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access.
For an individual diagnosed with lung cancer, the score would be relatively low, reflecting the challenges of attending regular appointments, undergoing treatments, and accessing specialized care. The extended drive times, potential for traffic delays, and financial burdens associated with transportation would undoubtedly add stress and complexity to their journey.
A prospective resident, considering moving to Brantley, should carefully evaluate these transportation challenges. While the town might offer other benefits, the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for those with chronic conditions like lung cancer, must be a primary consideration. The decision to move to Brantley should involve a thorough assessment of healthcare access and the ability to manage the associated transportation challenges.
**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**
Improving healthcare access in ZIP Code 36009 requires a multi-faceted approach. Exploring options for expanding public transit, partnering with ride-sharing services, and promoting medical transport services are crucial steps. Addressing the financial burdens associated with transportation, perhaps through patient assistance programs or community-based initiatives, is also essential.
Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the community's commitment to providing accessible and equitable healthcare for all residents. By addressing the transportation challenges, Brantley can improve the quality of life for individuals facing lung cancer and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive the care they need.
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