36322, Daleville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36322, Daleville, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.63 percent of residents in 36322 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Center Enterprise with a distance of 8.36 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36322 (Daleville, Alabama)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and the promise of Southern hospitality in Daleville, Alabama (ZIP Code 36322). But beneath the charm lies a critical reality: the accessibility of quality healthcare, particularly for those facing the daunting diagnosis of lung cancer. This analysis explores the transportation landscape, evaluating the Lung Cancer Score for residents seeking treatment, considering the vital element of **transportation** as a gateway to **healthcare access**. The score, however, is not a numerical value, but rather a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic area.

Daleville, a town nestled in Coffee County, is largely reliant on personal vehicles for **transportation**. This impacts the Lung Cancer Score significantly. The nearest comprehensive cancer treatment centers are located in Dothan, approximately 25 miles south, and Enterprise, about 15 miles west. The primary route to Dothan involves navigating Highway 84 East, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours. The journey to Enterprise is primarily on Highway 27, another road that can be subject to delays.

The drive to Dothan, home to Southeast Alabama Medical Center, typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This duration can be a significant burden for patients undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy, which often require frequent visits. The drive to Enterprise, with its smaller medical facilities, might be slightly quicker, averaging 20-30 minutes. However, the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment options in Enterprise may be more limited.

Public **transportation** options in Daleville are severely constrained. There is no established public bus system within the town itself. The absence of public transit significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who are unable to drive due to illness, age, or disability. This lack of alternative **transportation** options creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access**.

For those unable to drive, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Daleville, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. The availability of drivers may fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides can quickly become a financial burden, adding another layer of stress to an already challenging situation. This uncertainty further diminishes the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, are another option. These services often specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. However, they can be expensive, and their availability might be limited. The need to pre-book these services can also create logistical challenges, particularly for patients who require urgent care or have unexpected medical needs. These factors also contribute to a lower Lung Cancer Score.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance of available **transportation** options is a crucial consideration. Even if ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services are available, the accessibility of vehicles and the ability of drivers to assist patients with mobility issues are paramount. The lack of readily available ADA-compliant **transportation** options further compounds the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

The impact of these **transportation** limitations on the Lung Cancer Score extends beyond the physical journey. The stress and anxiety associated with navigating complex **transportation** challenges can negatively impact a patient's overall well-being and adherence to treatment plans. This is especially concerning for lung cancer patients, who may already be experiencing physical discomfort and emotional distress.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Daleville is further complicated by the potential for delays in diagnosis and treatment. The longer commute times to specialized cancer centers in Dothan or Enterprise could lead to delays in receiving crucial diagnostic tests, such as CT scans or biopsies. These delays can have a significant impact on a patient's prognosis and treatment outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score is also affected by the availability of support services for patients and their families. The absence of readily available support groups or counseling services in Daleville can exacerbate the emotional and psychological challenges associated with a lung cancer diagnosis. The lack of local resources further increases the burden on patients and their caregivers.

The decision to move to Daleville (or remain there) requires careful consideration of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** challenges. Prospective residents, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other chronic illnesses, should thoroughly assess the availability and affordability of **transportation** options. They should also research the quality and accessibility of medical facilities in the surrounding areas.

The Lung Cancer Score for Daleville, Alabama, is therefore significantly impacted by the limited **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services create significant barriers to **healthcare access** for lung cancer patients. The absence of local support services and the potential for delays in diagnosis and treatment further contribute to a lower score.

While the community of Daleville offers a welcoming environment, the **transportation** challenges necessitate a careful evaluation of the healthcare infrastructure and the potential impact on those seeking lung cancer treatment. The journey to recovery is already arduous; the added burden of difficult commutes and limited **transportation** options only compounds the challenges. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the need for improved **transportation** solutions and enhanced **healthcare access** to better serve the residents of Daleville and the surrounding areas.