36374, Skipperville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36374, Skipperville, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.74 percent of residents in 36374 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dale Medical Center with a distance of 14.29 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Skipperville, Alabama (ZIP Code 36374)

The crisp Alabama air, the scent of pine, and the welcoming embrace of Skipperville, nestled within ZIP code 36374, paint a picture of rural tranquility. However, the idyllic charm masks a critical consideration for prospective residents: **healthcare access**, particularly for those concerned about lung cancer. This analysis, a “Lung Cancer Score” for Skipperville, examines the **transportation** landscape, revealing the potential challenges and opportunities in accessing vital medical services. This write-up is designed to provide a clear understanding of the realities of **moving to Skipperville** for individuals prioritizing their health.

The primary concern for lung cancer patients is timely access to specialized care, including diagnostic imaging, oncology consultations, and radiation therapy. This access is heavily reliant on efficient **transportation**. Skipperville itself, a small town, doesn't boast a comprehensive medical infrastructure. Residents must venture beyond its borders to find the necessary resources.

The most common mode of transport for residents of Skipperville is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The primary arteries connecting Skipperville to regional healthcare hubs are Highway 134 and Highway 231. Highway 134 offers a direct route to Ozark, approximately 15 miles west, where Dale Medical Center provides a range of services, including basic diagnostic imaging. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Highway 231, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides access to Dothan, a larger city approximately 25 miles south. Dothan is the epicenter of specialized medical care in the region, home to Southeast Health Medical Center and Flowers Hospital, both offering comprehensive oncology services. The drive to Dothan via Highway 231 usually takes around 35-45 minutes, but this can fluctuate significantly during peak traffic hours, potentially impacting the timeliness of treatment.

Navigating these highways requires vigilance. Rural roads can be susceptible to unpredictable weather conditions, including heavy rain and occasional fog, which can significantly impact drive times and safety. The absence of extensive public transit options further underscores the reliance on personal vehicles for **healthcare access**.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Skipperville and the surrounding areas. The Wiregrass Transit Authority (WTA) provides some bus service within Dale County, but its routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns. There are no dedicated bus routes that directly connect Skipperville to major medical facilities in Ozark or Dothan. Furthermore, the WTA's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features are present on all its buses, but the limited service frequency and route coverage present significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those relying on public transit for their medical appointments.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates exploring alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Dothan area, offering a potentially viable option for those who do not have personal vehicles or are unable to drive. However, availability in Skipperville itself can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late at night. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services for emergency situations and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers. These NEMT services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive and often require advance booking, which may not be feasible for urgent medical needs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Skipperville, therefore, considers the following factors: the reliance on personal vehicles, the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, the potential for ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical **transportation**.

For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, the ability to access timely and consistent medical care is paramount. The **transportation** challenges in Skipperville, while manageable for some, can present significant obstacles for others. The drive times to Dothan, the nearest city with comprehensive oncology services, can be substantial, particularly for individuals undergoing radiation therapy, which often requires daily appointments. The lack of reliable public transit and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability further complicate the situation.

When **moving to Skipperville**, prospective residents should carefully consider their individual circumstances and healthcare needs. Individuals with existing lung cancer diagnoses or those at high risk should thoroughly assess the **transportation** options and the potential impact on their ability to access timely and appropriate medical care. They should factor in the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services, explore the availability of medical **transportation** options, and consider the potential for long drive times to medical appointments.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Skipperville is not intended to discourage potential residents. Instead, it aims to provide a realistic assessment of the **healthcare access** landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions based on their individual needs. By understanding the **transportation** challenges and exploring available resources, residents can proactively manage their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the care they deserve. The charm of Skipperville, with its welcoming community and natural beauty, can be enjoyed while prioritizing health and well-being. The key lies in careful planning and proactive engagement with the healthcare system.