35633, Florence, Alabama Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 35633, Florence, Alabama is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.07 percent of residents in 35633 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Alabama Medical Center with a distance of 7.29 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Florence, Alabama (ZIP Code 35633)

Considering a move to Florence, Alabama (ZIP code 35633) and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for prostate cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" based on transportation options and proximity to relevant medical facilities. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility in this charming city. This information is crucial for anyone considering a move, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health needs.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a subjective assessment based on the ease and efficiency of transportation to healthcare providers specializing in prostate cancer. Factors include travel time, availability of public transit, and accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. The higher the score, the better the healthcare access.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

Florence, nestled in the heart of the Shoals region, relies heavily on automobile transportation. The primary artery for healthcare access is **Highway 72**, the main east-west thoroughfare. Driving east on Highway 72, you'll find the **North Alabama Medical Center (NAMC)**, the area's largest hospital, typically within a 10-15 minute drive from most locations within 35633, depending on traffic. NAMC houses a comprehensive urology department, crucial for prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Another important route is **Highway 43**, which runs north-south. It provides access to clinics and specialists located in downtown Florence and surrounding areas. The drive time to various urology practices along Highway 43 varies, but generally remains within a 10-20 minute window, depending on the specific location within the zip code. Remember, rush hour can significantly impact these drive times, particularly around the downtown area.

Smaller roads, such as **Veterans Drive** and **Cox Creek Parkway**, offer alternative routes, potentially bypassing traffic congestion on the main highways. However, these roads are often more congested during peak hours and may not be suitable for emergency situations.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The availability of public transit is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or with mobility challenges. The **Shoals Transit Authority (STA)** provides public transportation services within Florence and the surrounding areas. However, the STA's routes and frequency are limited compared to larger metropolitan areas.

The STA operates several fixed routes, but specific routes directly serving healthcare facilities require investigation. The STA's website provides detailed route maps and schedules. It's essential to check for routes that connect to NAMC or urology clinics.

**ADA Accessibility:** The STA is mandated to provide ADA-accessible services. All STA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of service on some routes may be limited, potentially impacting the convenience of public transit for healthcare appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Florence. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. Availability may vary depending on the time of day and demand. Booking a ride in advance is advisable, particularly for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services are specifically designed for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Florence area, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for patients with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatments that may affect their ability to drive. Researching and contacting these services in advance is crucial for arranging transportation.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Shoals Ambulance Service:** This local provider offers ambulance and non-emergency medical transport services.
* **Care Ride:** Care Ride provides non-emergency medical transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **Other regional providers:** It's important to investigate regional providers that may serve Florence.

**Prostate Cancer Score Assessment**

Based on the factors outlined above, we can assign a preliminary "Prostate Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP code 35633.

* **Drive Time:** Excellent. The proximity of NAMC and various urology clinics to most locations within the zip code provides relatively quick access to healthcare.
* **Public Transit:** Fair. The STA provides public transportation, but route availability and frequency may be limited, especially for direct access to healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Good. Uber and Lyft offer convenient alternatives, but availability may vary.
* **Medical Transport:** Good. Several medical transport services cater to individuals with mobility limitations.

**Overall Score:** Considering these factors, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 35633 is **7 out of 10**. This score suggests that while healthcare access is generally good, there's room for improvement, particularly in public transit options.

**Moving to Florence: Healthcare Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Florence, this assessment provides valuable insights. While drive times to healthcare facilities are generally favorable, reliance on personal vehicles is high. Those reliant on public transit or ride-sharing should thoroughly investigate available routes and services.

Prior to moving, it's recommended to:

* **Contact local urology practices:** Inquire about appointment availability and insurance acceptance.
* **Research the STA routes:** Determine if any routes directly serve healthcare facilities.
* **Investigate medical transport services:** Identify providers and assess their services and costs.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure a smooth transition to life in Florence, Alabama. This assessment highlights the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access, providing a roadmap for navigating the healthcare landscape in this welcoming community.