36525, Creola, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36525, Creola, Alabama is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.62 percent of residents in 36525 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Usa Health University Hospital with a distance of 13.15 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Creola, Alabama (ZIP Code 36525)

Considering a move to Creola, Alabama (ZIP Code 36525), and concerned about lung cancer treatment access? This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options crucial for healthcare access. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture for informed decision-making. This is particularly relevant for those with pre-existing conditions or seeking proactive healthcare planning.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative evaluation of accessibility. It considers the realities of navigating transportation to oncology appointments, radiation therapy, chemotherapy sessions, and follow-up care. Factors like distance, traffic, and available transport modes significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life.

Creola, a charming community in Mobile County, offers a quieter pace of life. However, its proximity to specialized healthcare facilities is paramount when evaluating lung cancer treatment options. The primary focus will be on transportation to major healthcare hubs in Mobile and surrounding areas.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in this region. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities from Creola involve navigating major highways and roads.

* **Interstate 65 (I-65):** This north-south artery is the most direct route to Mobile, providing access to numerous hospitals and cancer centers. The drive from Creola to downtown Mobile via I-65 is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend travel times.

* **U.S. Highway 90 (US-90):** This east-west highway offers an alternative route, especially for accessing facilities located east of Mobile. Traffic on US-90 can be variable, with potential congestion near interchanges and business districts. Travel time to eastern Mobile facilities might be comparable to I-65, but consider potential delays.

* **Alabama Highway 43 (AL-43):** This road provides a more local, scenic route. While it is not as direct as the interstates, it can be useful for accessing facilities in smaller towns or avoiding highway congestion. Travel times will be longer compared to the interstates.

* **Local Roads:** Residents will also utilize local roads like Creola Road, Celeste Road, and others to access the highways or reach nearby medical offices. These roads can be subject to slower speeds and potential delays due to local traffic.

**Healthcare Access via Drive Times:**

The drive times to key healthcare facilities in the Mobile area are critical for the "Lung Cancer Score." These times are estimates and can vary.

* **University Hospital (Mobile):** Located in downtown Mobile, this facility is approximately a 25-35 minute drive via I-65. This facility offers comprehensive cancer care, including oncology, radiation therapy, and surgical services.

* **USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (Mobile):** This renowned cancer center is approximately a 30-40 minute drive via I-65. The Mitchell Cancer Institute is a leader in cancer research and treatment, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a multidisciplinary approach.

* **Springhill Medical Center (Mobile):** Located in the Springhill area, this hospital is approximately a 30-40 minute drive via I-65. It has comprehensive cancer services.

* **Infirmary Health (Mobile):** Located in the midtown area, this hospital is approximately a 25-35 minute drive via I-65. It has comprehensive cancer services.

These drive times represent a significant time commitment, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, will impact these estimates.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Bus System**

Public transportation options in Creola and Mobile County are limited. The Mobile Transit Authority (MTA) operates the city's bus system.

* **Bus Routes:** The MTA operates several bus routes that serve the Mobile area. However, direct service to Creola is not available. Residents would need to drive to a designated bus stop or transfer between routes.

* **ADA Accessibility:** The MTA provides ADA-accessible buses. This is crucial for patients with mobility limitations.

* **Challenges:** The bus system's limited coverage and frequency can pose challenges for patients needing regular medical appointments. Travel times are often significantly longer than driving, and transfers can be cumbersome.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Transportation**

Ride-share services and medical transport companies offer alternative transportation options.

* **Ride-Share Services:** Uber and Lyft operate in the Mobile area. Ride-share services can be a convenient option for patients who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, availability can vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather is possible.

* **Medical Transport:** Several medical transport companies provide specialized services for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles, stretcher transport, and trained medical personnel. Costs for medical transport can vary.

* **Brands:** Companies like MedRide, First Choice Transportation, and others operate in the Mobile area, offering various levels of medical transportation.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Summary for Creola (36525)**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Creola, Alabama, reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers a tranquil environment, healthcare access presents challenges.

* **Strengths:** Proximity to major highways (I-65, US-90) provides relatively quick access to major healthcare facilities in Mobile. Ride-share services offer an alternative to driving.

* **Weaknesses:** Limited public transportation options necessitate reliance on personal vehicles or ride-share services. Travel times to hospitals and cancer centers can be significant, particularly during rush hour.

* **Recommendations:** Individuals considering moving to Creola should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. Consider the availability of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation assistance. Explore the availability and cost of ride-share services and medical transport options.

**Moving to Creola: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

When moving to Creola, potential residents should prioritize healthcare access planning.

* **Pre-existing Conditions:** Individuals with pre-existing conditions, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments, should thoroughly assess the transportation options and travel times to healthcare facilities.

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for transportation services, including ride-share and medical transport.

* **Proactive Planning:** Develop a contingency plan for transportation in case of emergencies or vehicle breakdowns.

* **Community Resources:** Research local community resources, such as volunteer driver programs or support groups, that may provide assistance with transportation.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Creola underscores the importance of understanding the transportation landscape when making healthcare decisions. Careful planning and proactive measures can help ensure access to timely and quality care for residents of this charming Alabama community. The ability to navigate the transportation network efficiently is critical for managing lung cancer and other serious illnesses.