36548, Leroy, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36548, Leroy, Alabama is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.82 percent of residents in 36548 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson Medical Center with a distance of 5.48 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Leroy, Alabama (ZIP Code 36548)

The air hangs thick and humid in Leroy, Alabama, a small community nestled in the southwestern corner of the state. For residents facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the journey to healthcare access extends far beyond the immediate neighborhood. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the complexities of transportation and its impact on accessing vital medical services for those living in ZIP Code 36548. It's a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Leroy or for current residents navigating the challenges of healthcare.

The primary concern, of course, is timely access to specialized medical care. Lung cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and surgeons. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance is paramount. In Leroy, the nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in Mobile, approximately 60 to 80 miles away. This distance, and the transportation options available, significantly influence the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Road Ahead: Driving Times and Challenges**

The most direct route to Mobile from Leroy involves a drive primarily on US Highway 43, a two-lane highway that can experience heavy truck traffic. This stretch of road is generally well-maintained, but the potential for delays due to accidents or construction is always a factor. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within Mobile.

Alternatively, residents can utilize Alabama State Route 172, which connects to US Highway 98. This route is longer, potentially adding an extra 30 minutes to the drive, but it offers a slightly different perspective of the area. The roads are generally in good condition, but the lower speed limits along Route 172 could extend travel times.

The impact of these drive times on a lung cancer patient is significant. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care require considerable time spent on the road. The physical strain of driving, especially for those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, can be debilitating. Furthermore, the financial burden of fuel costs and vehicle maintenance adds another layer of stress.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Leroy are extremely limited. The Mobile Transit Authority (MTA) provides bus service within the city of Mobile, but there is no direct public transit route connecting Leroy to the city. This lack of public transportation significantly restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation. The lack of public transit further exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access for individuals with limited mobility, financial constraints, or those who are unable to drive. This significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: A Partial Solution**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Mobile, but their presence in Leroy is less consistent. Availability may fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Even when available, the cost of a ride-share to Mobile can be substantial, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies or non-profit organizations, provide a more specialized option. These services often cater to patients with specific medical needs, offering door-to-door transportation and assistance with mobility. However, availability and cost can vary, and access to these services may require prior planning and coordination.

**Accessibility Considerations**

For individuals with disabilities, the lack of accessible public transportation is a major barrier. Even within Mobile, the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses and other ADA-compliant services should be carefully considered. The journey to and from medical appointments must be manageable for patients with mobility limitations.

**The Impact on the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for residents of Leroy, Alabama, is negatively impacted by the following factors:

* **Long drive times:** The distance to specialized medical care in Mobile requires a significant time commitment.
* **Limited public transportation:** The absence of public transit restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Variable ride-sharing availability:** Ride-sharing services may not always be readily available or affordable.
* **Cost of transportation:** Fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing expenses add to the financial burden of healthcare.
* **Accessibility challenges:** Limited ADA-compliant transportation options hinder access for individuals with disabilities.

**Moving to Leroy: A Careful Consideration**

For anyone considering moving to Leroy, Alabama, and facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. The distance to specialized medical care, the availability of reliable transportation, and the associated costs should be carefully weighed. The Lung Cancer Score for this area is lower than in urban areas with robust public transit and comprehensive healthcare facilities.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Leroy, Alabama, requires careful planning and consideration of transportation challenges. The long distances to specialized medical care, limited public transit, and variable ride-sharing options create significant hurdles for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 36548 reflects these realities, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and support for residents seeking timely and accessible healthcare. This is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Leroy or for current residents navigating the complexities of healthcare access.