36545, Jackson, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36545, Jackson, Alabama is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.99 percent of residents in 36545 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson Medical Center with a distance of 0.37 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 36545

The journey to healthcare, a critical aspect of well-being, takes on a unique character in the heart of Alabama's Baldwin County, specifically within the 36545 ZIP code, encompassing the charming town of Jackson. This write-up delves into the complexities of healthcare access for potential residents, focusing on the vital aspect of lung cancer care. We will explore the available **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assess their impact on the **healthcare access** landscape. This information is particularly pertinent for anyone **moving to Jackson**, seeking to understand the practicalities of medical care.

The foundation of healthcare access often rests on the ease of reaching medical facilities. For residents of 36545, this often translates to driving. The primary arteries of **transportation** are US Highway 98 and County Road 47, which offer relatively straightforward routes. However, the drive times can fluctuate based on traffic, particularly during peak hours. A trip to Thomas Hospital in Fairhope, a major healthcare provider, typically requires a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions along US-98.

Alternatively, a journey to the University of South Alabama Medical Center in Mobile, a facility with specialized lung cancer care, necessitates navigating US-98 and Interstate 10. This route can take upwards of an hour and fifteen minutes, potentially longer during rush hour. While these drive times might seem manageable, they can be a significant burden for individuals undergoing treatment, experiencing mobility limitations, or requiring frequent appointments.

Public **transportation** options in 36545 are limited, posing a considerable challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Baldwin County Area Transportation System (BCATS) provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While this service can be a lifeline for some, it may not always align with the urgency of medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of BCATS varies, and the travel times can be extended due to the nature of demand-response services.

BCATS offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the overall coverage and frequency of routes are limited, potentially restricting **healthcare access** for those relying on public transit. The lack of robust public **transportation** necessitates a reliance on other options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another avenue for **transportation**. However, their availability in 36545 can be inconsistent, and the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing, coupled with potential wait times, can add further stress to an already challenging situation.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients, provide a more specialized option. Companies like MedStar and AMR offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, which includes stretcher and wheelchair services. These services are often equipped to handle individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transit. However, these services are typically more expensive than standard ride-sharing or personal vehicles, further impacting the overall cost of healthcare.

The availability of lung cancer specialists within the immediate vicinity of 36545 is a crucial consideration. While primary care physicians are readily available, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in Mobile or Fairhope. This underscores the importance of understanding the **transportation** options and the associated travel times.

For individuals **moving to Jackson**, understanding the nuances of **healthcare access** is paramount. The drive times to specialized care, the limitations of public transit, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services all contribute to the overall Lung Cancer Score. This score is not a numerical value but a holistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to accessing lung cancer care.

The geographic location of 36545, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, presents specific challenges in terms of **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services all contribute to the overall complexity.

The ideal scenario would involve a comprehensive network of **transportation** options, including readily available public transit, affordable ride-sharing services, and accessible medical **transportation**. Furthermore, the presence of specialized lung cancer care facilities within a reasonable distance would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

For those considering **moving to Jackson**, a thorough evaluation of their **transportation** needs and the potential impact on their **healthcare access** is essential. Researching the availability of ride-sharing services, exploring the options for medical **transportation**, and understanding the limitations of public transit are crucial steps.

Additionally, understanding the network of highways and roads, including US-98 and County Road 47, and the potential for traffic congestion, is essential. Planning for potential delays and accounting for the associated costs are vital components of ensuring adequate **healthcare access**.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, is not merely a measure of distance but a comprehensive evaluation of the practicalities of accessing care. It encompasses the challenges of **transportation**, the limitations of public transit, and the cost and availability of alternative options. It is a critical consideration for anyone **moving to Jackson** and seeking to ensure their well-being.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of 36545 have equitable access to the lung cancer care they need. This requires a multi-faceted approach, including improvements to **transportation** infrastructure, increased availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and the expansion of medical **transportation** options.

The success of this endeavor hinges on a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations. By working together, we can create a healthcare landscape that prioritizes accessibility and ensures that all residents of 36545 have the opportunity to live long, healthy lives.