36587, Wilmer, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36587, Wilmer, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.27 percent of residents in 36587 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Providence Hospital with a distance of 12.40 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wilmer, Alabama (ZIP Code 36587)

The air hangs thick with humidity in Wilmer, Alabama (ZIP Code 36587), a rural community nestled in Mobile County. This write-up assesses the “Lung Cancer Score” for residents, considering their ability to access vital healthcare services, specifically those related to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. A critical component of this score is **transportation**, the lifeline connecting individuals to the care they need. This analysis considers various modes of **transportation**, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing options, providing a comprehensive view of **healthcare access** in this area. If you are **moving to Wilmer**, understanding these factors is crucial for your well-being.

The primary concern for lung cancer patients is timely access to specialists, diagnostic tools, and treatment facilities. Delays in any of these areas can significantly impact outcomes. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, weighs the practicality and efficiency of reaching these essential resources. This assessment is not a definitive medical diagnosis tool but rather a gauge of the challenges and opportunities presented by the geographical location and available **transportation** options.

The backbone of **transportation** in Wilmer is the personal vehicle. For those with the means, driving remains the most direct route to **healthcare access**. The primary roadways influencing travel times are US Highway 98 and US Highway 45. The closest major hospital with comprehensive cancer care, including oncology and pulmonology, is University Hospital in Mobile. Driving from the center of Wilmer to University Hospital, located near Interstate 65, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive primarily involves navigating US-98 East, merging onto I-65 South, and then exiting onto Springhill Avenue.

Another key healthcare provider is Providence Hospital, also in Mobile. The journey to Providence Hospital, usually taking around 35 to 50 minutes, involves similar routes, using US-98 and I-65, but with a different exit strategy. These drive times, while manageable, can be stressful for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms, especially during peak traffic hours. The condition of the roads, including the potential for potholes or construction delays, can further complicate travel.

Beyond the major hospitals, access to specialized clinics and diagnostic centers is also essential. The Mobile area boasts several pulmonology practices, radiology centers, and radiation oncology facilities. Travel times to these facilities, which vary depending on their specific location, generally fall within the 30 to 60-minute range, again primarily relying on the US-98 and I-65 corridor.

Public **transportation** options in Mobile County are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The Mobile Transit System (MTS) operates a bus network, but service in Wilmer and the surrounding rural areas is infrequent and often requires multiple transfers. The routes that serve the area are limited, and the schedules may not align with clinic hours or treatment appointments.

For individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle, the MTS offers some **transportation** options. However, the routes are not designed for easy access to **healthcare access** in Wilmer. Bus routes 51 and 52 are the closest to Wilmer, with limited service to the area. These routes are not designed for easy access to healthcare. The MTS does have ADA-accessible buses, but the limited service and potential for long travel times make public **transportation** a less-than-ideal option for many patients, particularly those with mobility issues or undergoing treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mobile area. However, their reliability and affordability in Wilmer can be variable. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening, may be limited. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for patients, particularly those on fixed incomes or facing financial burdens related to their illness.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), offer another option for patients. Ambulance services are, of course, reserved for emergencies. NEMT services, which typically transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the Mobile area. However, these services may require prior scheduling, and their availability can be limited, especially for patients needing frequent appointments. The cost of NEMT services can also be a concern.

The Lung Cancer Score for Wilmer, Alabama, reflects the challenges posed by limited public **transportation** and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services. While the drive times to major hospitals in Mobile are manageable, the lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** options presents a significant hurdle for many residents. This situation can lead to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, potentially impacting patient outcomes.

For individuals **moving to Wilmer**, it is crucial to carefully consider these **transportation** challenges. Assessing your ability to drive or secure reliable **transportation** is paramount. If you are unable to drive, exploring options such as ride-sharing, medical **transportation** services, and the limited public **transportation** options is essential.

The Lung Cancer Score is not static; it can be improved through community initiatives. Advocating for increased public **transportation** services, particularly routes that connect Wilmer to major healthcare providers, would significantly enhance **healthcare access**. Partnering with local organizations to establish a volunteer driver program or provide subsidized ride-sharing options could also alleviate the **transportation** burden for patients.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of available resources, such as NEMT services and financial assistance programs, is vital. By addressing these **transportation** and resource gaps, the community can work towards improving the Lung Cancer Score and ensuring that all residents of Wilmer have timely and equitable access to the care they need. This is especially crucial for individuals battling a serious illness like lung cancer. The journey to recovery should not be hampered by the challenges of getting there.