36793, Lawley, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36793, Lawley, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.35 percent of residents in 36793 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bibb Medical Center with a distance of 13.91 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36793**

The air hangs heavy in Lawley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36793), a rural community where the rhythm of life slows to the pace of the Black Warrior River. Here, the specter of lung cancer, like the humid summer, can be a constant presence. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," examines the critical link between healthcare access and the ability to receive timely diagnosis and treatment, focusing on the intricate web of *transportation* options available to residents. This is a crucial factor for anyone *moving to Lawley* or already residing within its boundaries, especially those concerned about their health.

The very fabric of healthcare access in Lawley is woven with the threads of *transportation*. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are not within easy walking distance. This necessitates a reliance on vehicles, public transit, or alternative methods to navigate the distances and receive the care necessary. The Lung Cancer Score considers the practicalities of these journeys, the time involved, and the challenges faced by those seeking critical medical attention.

The primary artery for travel out of Lawley is Alabama State Route 21, a two-lane road that snakes its way north and south. Heading north, the journey to DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, a major healthcare hub, is approximately a 60- to 90-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. The route involves navigating the winding roads of rural Alabama, eventually merging onto Interstate 20/59. This highway is generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. The possibility of encountering delays due to accidents or construction is a constant consideration.

Traveling south on Route 21 offers a different set of options. A drive towards Selma, Alabama, presents a shorter trip to Vaughan Regional Medical Center. The drive is a more direct route, usually taking around 30 to 45 minutes. However, the availability of specialized services, such as oncology and pulmonology, is more limited compared to Tuscaloosa. This means that while travel time may be shorter, the necessary care might not be available locally, necessitating further travel.

Public *transportation* options in Lawley are severely limited. There is no established bus system or regular public transit route that serves the area. This lack of accessibility presents a significant hurdle for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to health conditions or other limitations. This is especially true for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, where frequent doctor appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and other treatments become essential.

The absence of public transit forces residents to rely on ride-sharing services or medical *transportation* providers. Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability are subject to the demands of the market. Ride availability is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This can lead to extended wait times, missed appointments, and increased stress for patients and their families.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized non-emergency medical transport providers, are a viable option, but they come at a significant cost. These services are often covered by insurance, but the co-pays and potential out-of-pocket expenses can be a burden for individuals already struggling with the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis. Moreover, the availability of these services can be limited, and booking appointments in advance is often required.

The presence of ADA-compliant features on any *transportation* option is a critical consideration. The lack of such features on public transit or the unavailability of accessible vehicles for ride-sharing services presents a significant barrier for individuals with mobility limitations. This can further exacerbate the challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for those undergoing treatment that may affect their physical abilities.

The Lung Cancer Score for Lawley, therefore, is negatively impacted by the limited *transportation* options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services create significant barriers to *healthcare access*. These challenges are compounded by the rural nature of the community, which often means longer travel times and greater distances to specialized medical facilities.

The impact of these *transportation* limitations extends beyond the practicalities of getting to appointments. The stress and anxiety associated with navigating these challenges can negatively impact the patient's overall well-being and their ability to adhere to treatment plans. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, missed appointments, and ultimately, a poorer prognosis.

For those *moving to Lawley*, the Lung Cancer Score should be a crucial consideration. It underscores the importance of evaluating the available *transportation* options and their potential impact on *healthcare access*. This includes assessing the proximity of medical facilities, the availability of specialized services, and the reliability and affordability of various *transportation* methods.

The Lung Cancer Score for Lawley highlights the critical need for improved *transportation* infrastructure and increased *healthcare access*. This could include the development of a local bus system, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the provision of affordable medical *transportation* options. Such improvements would not only improve the lives of those facing a lung cancer diagnosis but also enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.

The challenges of *transportation* in Lawley are a stark reminder of the disparities in *healthcare access* that exist in rural America. Addressing these disparities requires a multi-faceted approach that includes investments in *transportation* infrastructure, expansion of medical services, and the implementation of programs that support patients and their families. This is not just about getting to the doctor; it's about ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to receive the care they need to live a long and healthy life.