36345, Headland, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36345, Headland, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.50 percent of residents in 36345 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeast Health Medical Center with a distance of 9.24 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Headland, Alabama (ZIP Code 36345)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a critical diagnosis like lung cancer, is a multifaceted challenge. It involves more than just the availability of medical professionals; it encompasses the accessibility of *transportation* options, the efficiency of travel times, and the overall ease with which individuals can reach vital medical facilities. This analysis provides a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' for residents of Headland, Alabama (ZIP Code 36345), focusing on *healthcare access* and the realities of *transportation* options available. It's a critical consideration for anyone *moving to Headland*, especially those with existing or potential health concerns.

Headland, a town nestled in Henry County, Alabama, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer treatment centers are not within walking distance; therefore, reliable *transportation* is paramount. The 'Lung Cancer Score' considers several factors: drive times to specialized facilities, the availability of public *transportation*, the presence of ride-share services, and the existence of medical *transportation* options.

The primary artery for travel in and out of Headland is US Highway 431. This highway, while offering a direct route to Dothan, the nearest city with significant medical infrastructure, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The drive to Southeast Health in Dothan, a major medical center offering oncology services, is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic flow. This drive time is relatively manageable, but the potential for delays must be factored into any healthcare appointments. The route primarily follows US-431 North, offering a reasonably well-maintained road surface.

For those without personal vehicles, public *transportation* options are limited. Henry County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public *transportation* presents a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. This is a critical consideration for elderly residents, those with disabilities, or individuals facing financial constraints.

Ride-share services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Dothan, and their presence extends to Headland. However, their availability and reliability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Securing a ride for early morning appointments or late-night treatments might prove challenging. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical *transportation* services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. Several companies provide non-emergency medical *transportation* (NEMT) in the Dothan area, serving Headland. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assisting patients with boarding and disembarking vehicles. However, availability and scheduling can be restrictive, and prior arrangements are usually required. The cost of NEMT services can be substantial, potentially adding to the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis.

In addition to Southeast Health, other healthcare facilities in Dothan provide cancer-related services. Flowers Hospital, located in Dothan, offers oncology services, though the drive time from Headland remains similar to Southeast Health, approximately 20-25 minutes. The route to Flowers Hospital primarily utilizes US-431 North and Ross Clark Circle, a major thoroughfare in Dothan.

For residents requiring more specialized care, such as radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, travel to Birmingham or Montgomery might be necessary. The drive to Birmingham, home to the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, primarily via US-431 North to I-85 North, then to I-65 North. The drive to Montgomery, where the Baptist Cancer Center is located, is about 2 hours, primarily via US-431 North to US-84 East, then to US-231 South, and finally to I-85 South. These longer travel times necessitate careful planning, including consideration of overnight stays and the associated costs.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Headland, Alabama, reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to Dothan, the nearest city with substantial medical infrastructure, is relatively short, the lack of public *transportation* options and the potential unreliability of ride-share services present significant challenges. The availability of medical *transportation* services offers a valuable alternative, but the cost and scheduling constraints must be considered.

For individuals *moving to Headland* with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses, the 'Lung Cancer Score' highlights the importance of proactive planning. Assessing the availability of reliable *transportation*, understanding the costs associated with medical *transportation* and ride-share services, and establishing a relationship with local healthcare providers are crucial steps.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Headland, Alabama, is a reflection of the community's *healthcare access* challenges. While the proximity to Dothan offers a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly *transportation* alternatives underscores the need for careful consideration. The score is a call to action, highlighting the importance of community initiatives to improve *transportation* options and enhance *healthcare access* for all residents, especially those battling lung cancer. The development of a local transportation initiative, such as a volunteer driver program or a subsidized ride-share program, could significantly improve the quality of life for Headland residents facing cancer treatment.