36035, Goshen, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36035, Goshen, Alabama is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.29 percent of residents in 36035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crenshaw Community Hospital with a distance of 8.54 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Goshen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36035)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and possibility in Goshen, Alabama, a rural community nestled in the heart of Pike County. For those considering a move to this tranquil haven, especially those with health concerns, understanding the practicalities of **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options available to residents of ZIP code 36035, specifically considering the challenges faced by individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, who often require frequent and specialized medical care.

Our score considers drive times to key healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. We’ll analyze the potential obstacles and advantages for individuals seeking treatment, making this a crucial factor for anyone **moving to Goshen**.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Goshen is the proximity to larger medical centers. The most immediate option is likely the Pike County Medical Center in Troy, approximately 15 miles away. Driving time via US Highway 29, a well-maintained two-lane road, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. This route offers a relatively straightforward journey, but patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that causes fatigue may find even this short trip challenging.

For more specialized care, the next tier of healthcare facilities lies in Dothan, roughly 60 miles south. The journey to Dothan Regional Medical Center or Southeast Health, major regional hospitals, involves navigating US Highway 29 south to US Highway 84 east. This route typically takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 15 minutes, a considerable time commitment, especially for those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing the side effects of cancer treatment. This longer drive also increases the potential for stress and discomfort, impacting the overall quality of life.

Montgomery, the state capital, offers a broader range of specialized cancer care options, including the Baptist Cancer Center and Jackson Hospital. The drive to Montgomery, utilizing US Highway 29 north to Interstate 85 north, is approximately 80 miles and takes between 1 hour and 30 minutes and 1 hour and 45 minutes. This longer commute demands careful planning and consideration of the patient's physical condition, especially when factoring in the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Public transportation options are severely limited in this rural setting. There is no established public bus system within Pike County. This absence of public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The lack of readily available public transport exacerbates the challenges faced by lung cancer patients, who may experience mobility limitations, fatigue, and other treatment-related side effects.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially in rural locations. While these services offer a potential solution for **transportation**, patients need to consider the potential for longer wait times, higher fares, and the potential for driver cancellations. The availability of ride-sharing is further constrained by the limited number of drivers operating in the area, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for patients requiring specialized **transportation**. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and MedStar offer ambulance and non-emergency medical transport services. These services are essential for patients who cannot safely drive themselves or require medical assistance during transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often necessary. The availability of these services in Goshen is a critical factor, but patients need to research the specific services and insurance coverage available in advance.

For individuals with lung cancer, the ability to access timely and convenient medical care is vital. The “Lung Cancer Score” for Goshen, Alabama (ZIP code 36035) reflects the challenges posed by the limited **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles and the long distances to specialized cancer centers in Dothan and Montgomery can create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The absence of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate matters.

The drive times to major medical centers are a significant factor. While the Pike County Medical Center in Troy offers immediate care, the journey to more specialized facilities requires considerable time and planning. The patient's physical condition, the frequency of appointments, and the potential for treatment-related side effects must be carefully considered.

The availability of medical transport services is a crucial advantage. However, the costs associated with these services and the need for pre-planning require careful consideration. Residents moving to Goshen should research these options in advance and ensure their insurance coverage adequately addresses the costs.

The lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles or those who can no longer drive. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** solutions, such as ride-sharing services and medical transport, and planning accordingly.

In conclusion, the “Lung Cancer Score” for Goshen, Alabama (ZIP code 36035) highlights the need for careful consideration of **transportation** challenges. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited **healthcare access** options, particularly for those with lung cancer, require proactive planning and a realistic assessment of the available resources. Anyone **moving to Goshen** must prioritize researching available healthcare facilities, **transportation** services, and insurance coverage to ensure they can effectively manage their health needs.