36693, Mobile, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36693, Mobile, Alabama is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.43 percent of residents in 36693 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baypointe Behavioral Health with a distance of 1.27 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Transportation and Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 36693**

Understanding the intricate relationship between where you live and your ability to access vital healthcare services, particularly in the context of a serious illness like lung cancer, is paramount. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 36693 in Mobile, Alabama, to assess its impact on healthcare access, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" that considers the challenges and opportunities for individuals navigating this critical journey. This is especially relevant for those considering moving to Mobile, as it highlights the crucial role of transportation in their healthcare decisions.

ZIP Code 36693, encompassing a significant portion of Mobile, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The area is characterized by a mix of suburban and urban environments, influencing the availability and efficiency of various transportation options. This assessment examines the drive times to major healthcare facilities, the accessibility of public transit, the presence of ride-share services, and the availability of medical transportation, ultimately painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for potential lung cancer patients.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary arteries of transportation in 36693 include Interstate 65 (I-65), Interstate 10 (I-10), and US Highway 90 (US-90), along with a network of local roads like Airport Boulevard, Schillinger Road, and Cottage Hill Road. Drive times to major healthcare facilities, such as the University of South Alabama Medical Center, Providence Hospital, and Springhill Medical Center, are crucial determinants of healthcare access.

During peak traffic hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, congestion on I-65 and I-10 can significantly extend travel times. The drive to the University of South Alabama Medical Center, known for its comprehensive cancer care, could take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within 36693. Providence Hospital, located closer to the eastern edge of the ZIP code, might be reached in 10 to 30 minutes. Springhill Medical Center, situated in the Springhill area, could require a 15 to 35-minute drive. The availability of multiple healthcare facilities is a plus, but the variability in drive times underscores the importance of considering location within the ZIP code.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Mobile Transit System**

The Mobile Transit System (MTS) provides public transportation within the city, offering bus routes that serve various parts of 36693. The availability of public transit is a critical factor for individuals who may not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive due to their health condition.

Several MTS routes traverse the area, including routes 5, 6, 7, and 11, which are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor. The MTS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. However, the overall efficiency of public transportation is impacted by factors such as route coverage, frequency, and the need for transfers.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who need on-demand transportation. The availability of these services in 36693 can be variable, depending on the time of day and demand. However, they can provide a convenient and accessible way to travel to healthcare appointments, especially for those living in areas with limited public transit options.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, also play a vital role. Companies like MedRide and First Call Medical Transportation offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services are particularly important for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs that make it difficult to use public transit or ride-share services. The availability and cost of these specialized services are crucial factors in determining healthcare access.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 36693 considers all these factors, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities based on drive times, the efficiency of public transit, the reliability of ride-share services, and the availability of medical transportation.

A high score indicates excellent healthcare access, with short drive times, frequent public transit options, readily available ride-share services, and easy access to medical transportation. A low score suggests significant challenges, with longer drive times, limited public transit, unreliable ride-share services, and limited access to medical transportation.

For someone considering moving to Mobile and dealing with or at risk for lung cancer, the score would be a critical tool. It allows for a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this specific area.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Transportation for Healthcare Access**

The transportation landscape in ZIP Code 36693 presents a mixed bag. While the presence of major highways and local roads facilitates access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times. The Mobile Transit System offers public transit options, but frequency and coverage may be limited. Ride-share services and medical transportation provide additional options, but their availability and cost can vary.

Understanding these complexities is crucial for individuals navigating the healthcare system, especially those facing a diagnosis like lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for assessing healthcare access, highlighting the critical role of transportation in ensuring timely and effective care. For those moving to Mobile, a thorough understanding of the transportation options available within 36693 is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being. This underscores the need for comprehensive planning, considering both the benefits and the challenges of living in this area.