36401, Evergreen, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36401, Evergreen, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.96 percent of residents in 36401 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Evergreen Medical Center with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Evergreen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36401)

Considering a move to Evergreen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36401)? This assessment provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a unique metric evaluating transportation access to essential healthcare services, specifically for lung cancer treatment and diagnostics. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. It aims to offer a realistic picture of healthcare access, crucial for individuals and families facing or at risk of this serious disease. Understanding these factors is vital when considering a move, as efficient transportation directly impacts the timely delivery of care.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a simple numerical rating. Instead, it provides a detailed narrative, a roadmap to navigating the healthcare landscape. It acknowledges that transportation challenges can significantly impact treatment outcomes and quality of life. This is particularly relevant in rural areas like Evergreen, where healthcare access often differs from urban centers.

**The Score’s Components: Transportation and Healthcare Access**

The foundation of the Lung Cancer Score lies in the interplay of transportation and healthcare access. The score assesses the ease with which residents of 36401 can reach facilities offering lung cancer diagnostics (imaging, biopsies), treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery), and follow-up care. This includes the availability of transportation options and the distance to these critical resources.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For residents of Evergreen, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The major roadways, US-83 and US-84, are the lifelines connecting Evergreen to surrounding towns and cities with more extensive medical facilities. US-83, running north-south, offers access to nearby towns, while US-84, an east-west artery, leads to larger medical centers.

The drive time to the nearest facilities providing lung cancer care is a critical factor. The Evergreen Medical Center, located within the town, offers basic diagnostic services and primary care. However, for specialized treatment, patients typically need to travel to larger hospitals.

The drive to D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital in Brewton, approximately 35 miles south via US-83, takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers some cancer care services, including chemotherapy. The drive to larger facilities in Mobile, such as the University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute, which is about 100 miles south via US-83 and I-65, takes roughly 2 hours.

These drive times are essential considerations. The ability to reach healthcare providers quickly and efficiently is paramount, especially for patients requiring frequent appointments or facing urgent medical needs. The Lung Cancer Score weighs these drive times, acknowledging the potential impact of travel on treatment adherence and overall well-being.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Evergreen are limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant challenge. There is no local bus service, and fixed-route public transportation is virtually nonexistent.

The lack of public transportation can be a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This limitation is factored into the Lung Cancer Score, recognizing that the absence of public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with disabilities.

**ADA Compliance and Accessibility**

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration for any transportation service. The absence of public transit with ADA-compliant features in Evergreen is a significant concern. This limits healthcare access for individuals with mobility impairments, making it difficult for them to attend appointments and receive treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in Evergreen, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density, which is generally lower in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT). These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they can be expensive and require advance booking.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It acknowledges that these options can be lifelines for some patients, but their limitations, including cost and availability, must be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Facilities: The Destination Matters**

The quality and scope of healthcare facilities in and around Evergreen are critical. The Evergreen Medical Center provides basic services, but specialized cancer care is limited. The availability of oncologists, radiation therapists, and other specialists is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The proximity to larger hospitals, such as D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital and those in Mobile, is also considered. The ability to access comprehensive cancer care, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is essential.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The Lung Cancer Score for 36401 is not a simple number but a nuanced assessment. It considers the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the scope of healthcare services available.

The score acknowledges the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting. It highlights the importance of personal vehicles and the potential difficulties faced by individuals without access to a car. It emphasizes the need for careful planning and consideration when moving to Evergreen, particularly for those with existing health concerns or a family history of lung cancer.

**Moving to Evergreen: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering a move to Evergreen, the Lung Cancer Score provides valuable insights. It encourages prospective residents to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. It highlights the importance of having a reliable means of transportation and understanding the distances to specialized medical facilities.

The score is not intended to discourage a move to Evergreen but to provide a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions, ensuring they can access the care they need. It underscores the importance of proactive planning and consideration of healthcare access when choosing a new home.