36346, Jack, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36346, Jack, Alabama is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.90 percent of residents in 36346 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.09 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 36346

The air in 36346, Enterprise, Alabama, holds a certain Southern charm, but for those battling lung cancer, the journey to quality healthcare can be fraught with challenges. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considers the vital intersection of transportation and healthcare access for residents of this zip code, illuminating the practical realities of navigating a difficult diagnosis in a community that, while offering a sense of place, presents specific hurdles. This is especially relevant for those **moving to Jack**, as they will need to consider these factors in their decision.

The cornerstone of this assessment is drive-time analysis. The primary healthcare provider for lung cancer treatment in the area is likely to be Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) in Dothan, approximately 25 miles away. Traveling from the heart of Enterprise, residents typically utilize US Highway 84 East, a well-maintained, though often congested, thoroughfare. The drive, in ideal conditions, is around 30-40 minutes. However, this time is subject to significant fluctuation. Rush hour traffic, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, can easily extend the commute to an hour or more. Inclement weather, a frequent visitor to the region, further complicates matters, potentially doubling travel times.

Secondary routes, such as Alabama State Route 167, offer alternative paths, though they often involve navigating smaller, less-maintained roads. These routes may be preferable for avoiding highway congestion, but they can be slower overall. The choice between these options becomes a crucial daily decision, one that can impact a patient's energy levels and ability to attend scheduled appointments. A patient's ability to drive themselves, or to have a family member or friend do so, is a huge factor in their care.

Public transportation options in 36346 are limited. The City of Enterprise does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This is a significant barrier for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to a vehicle. The lack of readily available public transportation severely restricts **healthcare access**, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may impair their ability to drive.

The closest options for public transit are in Dothan. Dothan’s public transit system, known as Dothan Transit, offers limited routes. The routes are not designed to serve the needs of those living in Enterprise. They have limited weekend service and do not extend to Enterprise. The lack of ADA-accessible features is a major concern. This makes it difficult for individuals with disabilities to access medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Enterprise and Dothan. However, their reliability and affordability can vary. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services prohibitively expensive, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly in the early morning or late evening, is also a concern. For those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, the financial burden of frequent ride-sharing can be significant, adding another layer of stress to an already challenging situation.

Medical transportation services are another option, though they come with their own set of considerations. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and MedStar Mobile Healthcare provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services are typically reserved for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. They may be covered by insurance, but the process of securing approval and scheduling transportation can be complex and time-consuming. The need to pre-schedule transportation, often days or weeks in advance, can be a major inconvenience, especially for patients who need to attend urgent appointments.

For those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the stress of arranging **transportation** to and from medical appointments can be overwhelming. The physical and emotional toll of the disease, combined with the logistical challenges of navigating the healthcare system, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options in 36346 exacerbates these challenges, making it more difficult for patients to access the care they need.

The Lung Cancer Score for 36346 is, therefore, negatively impacted by the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing services. The drive times, while seemingly manageable in ideal conditions, are subject to significant delays due to traffic and weather. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those who do not have access to a vehicle.

This is a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Jack**, or considering a move to the area. The availability and accessibility of healthcare services, including transportation to those services, is a fundamental aspect of community well-being. Understanding the challenges of navigating the healthcare landscape in 36346 is essential for making informed decisions about where to live and how to ensure access to quality care.

The ideal scenario would involve the expansion of public transportation options, including routes that connect Enterprise to Dothan, and the implementation of ADA-accessible features on all vehicles. Increased funding for medical transportation services and subsidies for ride-sharing programs could also help alleviate the financial burden on patients. These improvements would not only enhance **healthcare access** but also improve the overall quality of life for residents of 36346, especially those battling lung cancer. The long-term goal should be to create a healthcare environment that is accessible, affordable, and supportive for all residents, regardless of their physical limitations or financial circumstances.