36116, Montgomery, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36116, Montgomery, Alabama is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.61 percent of residents in 36116 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center South with a distance of 3.67 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 36116

Considering a move to Montgomery, Alabama, and specifically ZIP Code 36116? This assessment delves into the crucial factor of healthcare access, particularly for individuals concerned about lung cancer. The ability to reach timely and effective medical care is paramount, and this analysis examines the transportation landscape – from highways to ride-shares – to determine a "Lung Cancer Score" reflective of the ease with which residents can access lung cancer specialists and treatment facilities.

ZIP Code 36116, encompassing a significant portion of eastern Montgomery, presents a unique transportation profile. While primarily a car-dependent area, understanding the alternatives is critical, especially for those facing health challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in 36116 is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The convenience and flexibility of a car are undeniable, especially when navigating the complexities of healthcare appointments, which often require multiple visits for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The efficiency of the highway system is therefore a key factor in determining the "Lung Cancer Score."

Interstate 85 (I-85) serves as the major artery, providing relatively quick access to medical centers located in central Montgomery. Traveling west on I-85, residents can reach Baptist Medical Center South, a prominent healthcare provider, in approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive time is generally considered favorable, offering a reasonable window for urgent care needs.

Another crucial route is U.S. Highway 80 (US-80), which provides access to the same medical facilities, albeit with potentially longer travel times, especially during peak hours. US-80 also connects to other healthcare providers, including those specializing in oncology. The drive time to Baptist Medical Center South via US-80 can range from 20-30 minutes, making it a slightly less efficient option.

For residents in the northern reaches of 36116, access to the medical facilities may involve navigating surface streets such as Atlanta Highway and Eastern Boulevard. These routes, while offering direct access, are often subject to traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour. The drive time to Baptist Medical Center South from these areas could extend to 30-40 minutes, impacting the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

While the reliance on personal vehicles is strong, public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with limitations. The Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) provides bus service throughout the city, including routes that traverse portions of 36116. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes may not fully meet the needs of those seeking frequent medical appointments.

MATS Route 12, for example, travels along Atlanta Highway, offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities. However, the bus schedule may not align with appointment times, and the overall travel time could be significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, which is a factor in the "Lung Cancer Score."

Route 10, which runs along Eastern Boulevard, also provides a connection to healthcare facilities. However, similar to Route 12, the frequency and travel time may pose challenges. The accessibility of the bus stops and the overall convenience of public transit are essential considerations when assessing healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a valuable supplementary transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing the stress and time associated with driving.

The availability of ride-sharing in 36116 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could impact the cost-effectiveness of this option. The reliability of these services is also a factor, as delays or cancellations could negatively affect healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by medical transportation companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. The availability and cost of medical transport services in 36116 are crucial considerations for the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

* **Care Ambulance Service:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vans.
* **MedTrans Corporation:** Offers both non-emergency and emergency medical transportation services.
* **First Call Ambulance Service:** Provides emergency and non-emergency medical transportation, including stretcher transport.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Moving to Montgomery**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 36116 reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score is not a single number but a nuanced assessment considering drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport.

The score would be higher for residents with access to a personal vehicle and residing closer to major roadways like I-85. The score would be lower for those reliant on public transit or those with mobility limitations, increasing the need for ride-sharing or medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Montgomery and concerned about lung cancer, this analysis highlights the importance of location within 36116. Proximity to I-85 and the availability of reliable transportation options are crucial for ensuring timely access to healthcare. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating the transportation landscape and making informed decisions about healthcare access in this ZIP Code.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 36116 is influenced by a complex interplay of transportation factors. While the area is primarily car-dependent, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternatives. The proximity to major roadways like I-85 provides relatively quick access to healthcare facilities. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion must be considered. For those considering a move to Montgomery, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for ensuring access to timely and effective lung cancer care.