36753, Mc Williams, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36753, Mc Williams, Alabama is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 36753 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is J Paul Jones Hospital with a distance of 16.66 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36753**

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and efficient access to healthcare. For residents of ZIP Code 36753, nestled in the heart of rural Alabama, the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care presents a unique set of transportation challenges. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering the critical role of transportation in a patient's fight against this devastating disease.

The primary obstacle for those in 36753 is distance. The closest comprehensive healthcare facilities capable of handling lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in larger cities, requiring significant travel. This is especially true for residents of Mc Williams, a small community within the ZIP code. The ability to traverse these distances safely, reliably, and affordably is paramount.

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation. The primary arteries connecting 36753 to healthcare hubs are State Route 28, State Route 21, and County Road 1. Traveling east on State Route 28 leads towards Selma, approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic and road conditions. Selma offers some basic medical services, but more specialized care may necessitate a longer journey.

Venturing north on State Route 21 offers a route toward Prattville and Montgomery, the state capital, a drive of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Montgomery boasts a greater concentration of hospitals and specialist physicians, including oncology services, making it a crucial destination for lung cancer patients. County Road 1, a more rural route, offers alternative access to these main roads but may be subject to poorer road conditions.

The drive times, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly impacted by several factors. Weather, particularly heavy rainfall or fog, can make rural roads treacherous. Traffic, though generally light in this area, can still cause delays, especially during peak commuting hours. The condition of the vehicle, the driver's physical condition, and the availability of a reliable driver all play a crucial role.

Public transportation options in 36753 are severely limited. There is no established fixed-route bus service within the ZIP code itself. The availability of public transit to connect residents to healthcare facilities is virtually nonexistent, a significant disadvantage for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This deficiency exacerbates the challenges faced by patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, mobility issues, or require frequent follow-up appointments. The absence of ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit options is a major concern.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the larger cities of Selma and Montgomery, but their presence in 36753 is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of drivers in this rural area is limited, and the cost of a ride-share, particularly for long-distance travel, can be prohibitive for many residents. This lack of consistent ride-share options presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are a potential lifeline. Several companies operate in the region, including specialized ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers. These services offer a crucial solution for patients who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive themselves. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability may be limited, especially during peak hours or in emergencies.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 36753 reflects the complex interplay between healthcare access and transportation. The absence of reliable public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transportation all contribute to a lower score. The dependence on personal vehicles and the long distances to specialized care centers create significant challenges for patients.

Moving to Mc Williams, within 36753, presents an even greater challenge. The remoteness of the community and the lack of readily available transportation options intensify the difficulties in accessing timely and appropriate healthcare. Residents of Mc Williams must rely heavily on personal vehicles or the assistance of family and friends to reach medical facilities. This dependence places a significant burden on patients and their support networks.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not merely a numerical assessment; it is a reflection of the human cost of inadequate transportation infrastructure. For lung cancer patients in 36753, the journey to healthcare is often a stressful, time-consuming, and potentially costly endeavor. Improving healthcare access requires a multi-faceted approach, including exploring options for public transit, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring that medical transportation services are accessible and affordable. Investing in these transportation solutions is an investment in the health and well-being of the community, offering a crucial lifeline for those battling lung cancer.