36529, Deer Park, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36529, Deer Park, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.22 percent of residents in 36529 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hospital with a distance of 13.15 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deer Park, Alabama (ZIP Code 36529)

Considering a move to the tranquil community of Deer Park, Alabama (ZIP code 36529)? While the area offers a slower pace and natural beauty, it’s crucial to assess **healthcare access**, especially concerning a serious illness like lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options to medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this disease. Understanding the logistical challenges of accessing care is vital for informed decision-making.

Deer Park, nestled in Washington County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are not immediately accessible, demanding careful planning and consideration of **transportation** infrastructure. The "Lung Cancer Score" evaluates the ease with which a resident can reach these vital resources, factoring in drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative options.

The primary hurdle is distance. The closest major medical facilities specializing in lung cancer treatment are located in Mobile, approximately 60-70 miles away. This translates to a drive of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the specific destination. The primary route involves navigating US-43 South, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. A secondary route utilizes AL-17, which is a less traveled but potentially slower option.

Once you reach Mobile, the choices broaden. The University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute is a leading facility. Another option is Infirmary Cancer Care, affiliated with Mobile Infirmary Medical Center. Both offer comprehensive lung cancer services, including diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The drive itself, however, presents a significant barrier to timely and consistent care.

Public **transportation** options in Deer Park are severely limited. Washington County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This leaves residents reliant on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport for accessing healthcare. This lack of public **transportation** significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Deer Park and Mobile. However, their reliability and cost can fluctuate. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments requiring early morning or late-night travel, is not guaranteed. The expense of frequent ride-sharing trips to Mobile can quickly become a significant financial burden, adding another layer of stress for patients and their families.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transport. These services can provide door-to-door service, including wheelchair accessibility, for appointments and treatments. While these services are invaluable, they come with a higher price tag than standard ride-sharing. Furthermore, booking in advance is often necessary, and availability is not always guaranteed.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of public **transportation** is an important factor in the "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. Given the limitations of public transit, this is less of a direct concern. However, for patients utilizing ride-sharing or medical **transportation**, the availability of accessible vehicles and services is crucial. Confirming the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles or other necessary accommodations before booking is essential.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Deer Park, Alabama (36529) is negatively impacted by the distance to specialized cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services adds to the complexity of accessing healthcare. The absence of a robust public **transportation** system further exacerbates these challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Deer Park** and with a history of lung cancer or at higher risk, a thorough evaluation of these **transportation** factors is essential. It is crucial to factor in the potential costs, time commitments, and logistical complexities of accessing specialized care in Mobile.

Furthermore, it is wise to investigate the availability of local primary care physicians in Deer Park who can provide ongoing support and facilitate referrals to specialists in Mobile. Establishing a strong relationship with a local healthcare provider can help navigate the healthcare system and ensure continuity of care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it's a reflection of the practical challenges of accessing potentially life-saving care. While Deer Park offers a peaceful environment, the realities of **transportation** limitations and distance to specialized medical facilities must be carefully considered when evaluating the suitability of the area for individuals with or at risk of lung cancer.

In conclusion, while Deer Park offers a certain charm, the "Lung Cancer Score" suggests that residents with, or at risk of, lung cancer face significant hurdles in accessing timely and convenient care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services all contribute to a lower score. This is an important consideration for anyone considering **moving to Deer Park**, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer. Prioritizing access to healthcare, and understanding the practicalities of **transportation**, is paramount.