30735, Resaca, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 30735, Resaca, Georgia is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.28 percent of residents in 30735 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hamilton Medical Center with a distance of 13.28 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Resaca, Georgia (ZIP Code 30735)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, demands meticulous research. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of Resaca, Georgia (ZIP Code 30735), focusing on transportation options to relevant medical facilities. This score isn’t a definitive health risk assessment but a practical guide to understanding the challenges and opportunities in accessing lung cancer care within this specific geographic area. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

Resaca, a small community nestled in Gordon County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The primary focus is on reaching facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer, including oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapy centers. The score will consider the ease and efficiency of transportation to these critical resources. The goal is to paint a clear picture for individuals considering moving to Resaca or currently residing there, offering insights into the practicalities of navigating the healthcare landscape.

The most common method of transportation in Resaca is by personal vehicle. Accessing specialized lung cancer care often necessitates travel to larger regional medical centers. The primary routes involve navigating the local road network and connecting to major highways. Driving times are critical factors. The score will assess the average drive times to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, factoring in typical traffic conditions and potential delays.

For residents of Resaca, the primary arteries for healthcare access are US-41 and I-75. US-41, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides a direct route to Calhoun, approximately 10 miles south. This city boasts AdventHealth Gordon, which offers some cancer care services. The drive along US-41 is generally straightforward, but traffic can be heavier during peak hours.

I-75, a major interstate highway, offers access to larger medical centers in Chattanooga, Tennessee (approximately 60 miles north), and Atlanta, Georgia (approximately 80 miles south). These cities offer a wider range of specialized lung cancer care options. However, travel on I-75 can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, especially during rush hour and on weekends. The score will account for these variables, providing estimated drive times under various conditions.

Public transportation options in Resaca are extremely limited. Gordon County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The absence of a reliable public transit system is a significant negative factor in the Lung Cancer Score. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Resaca is another crucial consideration. While these services are available, their reliability and cost can vary. Ride-sharing availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. The score will reflect the potential challenges of relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments, especially for regular treatments or emergencies.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer an alternative. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. The Lung Cancer Score will consider the availability of medical transport providers in the Resaca area, including their service areas, costs, and the types of assistance they provide.

The score will also assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities for individuals with disabilities. This includes considering the availability of accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and other features that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This is crucial for ensuring that all residents have equal access to healthcare services.

The Lung Cancer Score will incorporate these factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access in Resaca. The score will be presented on a scale, allowing potential residents to understand the relative ease or difficulty of accessing lung cancer care. This score is not intended to be a definitive medical judgment but a practical guide for navigating the transportation and healthcare landscape.

The challenges of healthcare access in Resaca highlight the importance of careful planning. For individuals considering moving to Resaca, it is essential to research the availability of transportation options and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for this research.

The lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services necessitate careful consideration. Individuals with lung cancer or at high risk should prioritize proximity to specialized care centers and explore all available transportation options. This includes medical transport services, which can provide crucial assistance.

The Lung Cancer Score will also consider the availability of support services for lung cancer patients. This includes access to support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance programs. These resources can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment.

The score will also account for the potential impact of seasonal weather conditions on transportation. Winter weather, for example, can make driving more hazardous and increase travel times. This is especially relevant for individuals who rely on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a composite of all these factors, providing a clear and concise assessment of healthcare access in Resaca. The score will be a valuable tool for individuals making critical decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements. It will empower residents to make informed choices about their health and well-being.

The score will also highlight the importance of advocacy and community involvement. Residents can work together to improve healthcare access in Resaca by supporting initiatives to expand public transportation, attract medical providers, and advocate for policies that support patients with lung cancer. This collaborative approach can significantly improve the healthcare landscape.

The Lung Cancer Score is more than just a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access. It emphasizes the importance of planning, research, and advocacy. By understanding the challenges and opportunities in Resaca, residents can make informed decisions and work together to create a healthier community.

The score will be continually updated to reflect changes in healthcare access, transportation options, and community resources. This ensures that the information remains relevant and valuable for residents of Resaca. The goal is to provide a dynamic and informative resource for anyone considering moving to or currently residing in this community.

The Lung Cancer Score is designed to be a practical and informative resource for individuals navigating the complexities of healthcare access in Resaca, Georgia. By understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities, residents can make informed decisions and advocate for a healthier community. The score is a testament to the importance of proactive planning and community involvement in ensuring access to vital healthcare services.