36360, Ozark, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36360, Ozark, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.75 percent of residents in 36360 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dale Medical Center with a distance of 1.46 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ozark, Alabama (ZIP Code 36360)

The decision to relocate, especially to a new community like Ozark, Alabama (ZIP Code 36360), often involves a complex assessment of various factors. For individuals, or those considering a move, with a history of lung cancer or at elevated risk, the ease of access to specialized healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of the transportation landscape in and around Ozark, focusing on its impact on healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer treatment and follow-up care. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to help inform your decision-making process.

Ozark, nestled in Dale County, Alabama, presents a unique blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger metropolitan areas. This geographical positioning influences the availability of healthcare services and the ease with which residents can access them. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the practical realities of getting to and from medical appointments, factoring in potential challenges for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

The primary mode of transportation for most Ozark residents is the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfare serving the area is US Highway 231, a vital north-south artery connecting Ozark to Dothan, approximately 20 miles south, and Enterprise, about 25 miles north. Driving to Dothan Regional Medical Center, the closest comprehensive hospital with oncology services, typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This relatively short commute time is a significant advantage for residents requiring regular appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Another critical route is Alabama Highway 27, which provides access to smaller towns and rural areas, potentially increasing travel times for some residents. The condition of these roads, along with the potential for inclement weather, must be considered when evaluating transportation reliability. The "Lung Cancer Score" must account for these variables, especially for patients whose health may be compromised by treatment or the disease itself.

Public transportation options in Ozark are limited. Dale County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of a robust public transit network presents a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This limitation directly impacts healthcare access, potentially creating barriers for patients needing frequent appointments or those unable to afford ride-sharing services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ozark, though their availability and pricing can fluctuate. While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, it can be costly, particularly for regular medical appointments. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the financial burden of ride-sharing, especially for patients on fixed incomes or those with limited insurance coverage.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility limitations, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like MedStar and CareRide specialize in non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service for appointments and treatments. These services are crucial for patients who cannot drive or require assistance getting in and out of vehicles. However, availability and cost vary, and pre-booking is often required.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of ADA-accessible transportation options. For patients with disabilities, accessible transportation is essential. While ride-sharing services and medical transportation companies typically offer accessible vehicles, their availability cannot be guaranteed.

Beyond Dothan, the next closest options for specialized lung cancer care may be in Montgomery, approximately 90 miles to the north, or in Birmingham, roughly 160 miles away. Travel times to these locations can range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. Interstate 85 provides access to Montgomery, while Interstate 65 leads to Birmingham. These longer distances significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for patients requiring frequent appointments or experiencing complications. The "Lung Cancer Score" must weigh the impact of these extended travel times on patient well-being and treatment adherence.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a dynamic assessment that considers several factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the cost and accessibility of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options. The score also considers the availability of ADA-accessible transportation. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access in Ozark, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

For individuals considering moving to Ozark, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. While Ozark offers relatively convenient access to Dothan Regional Medical Center, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing must be considered. The "Lung Cancer Score" helps assess the practicality of receiving lung cancer care in this area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a definitive rating but a tool to help evaluate healthcare access. It is crucial to research specific healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and personal transportation needs to determine the best course of action. The decision to relocate, especially for individuals with health concerns, requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of the available resources. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for this critical evaluation, highlighting the transportation challenges and opportunities that shape healthcare access in Ozark, Alabama.