36362, Fort Rucker, Alabama Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 36362, Fort Rucker, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

93.03 percent of residents in 36362 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Center Enterprise with a distance of 8.24 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP Code 36362)

The sun blazes over Enterprise, Alabama, a town steeped in military history and Southern charm. For individuals considering a move to this area, especially those with health concerns like prostate cancer, understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This write-up delves into the prostate cancer score for ZIP Code 36362, evaluating the ease of accessing essential medical services, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access.

A crucial factor in the prostate cancer score is the proximity to specialized medical facilities. The primary healthcare hub for residents of Enterprise is the Medical Center Enterprise, located within the city limits. This facility offers urology services, including diagnosis and treatment for prostate cancer. However, the availability of advanced treatments, such as radiation therapy and specialized surgical procedures, might necessitate travel to larger regional centers.

Transportation, therefore, becomes a significant determinant of the prostate cancer score. The ability to reach these facilities efficiently and comfortably directly affects the timeliness and quality of care. For those driving, the primary arteries of transportation in and around Enterprise are US Highway 84 and US Highway 27. These roadways provide relatively easy access to Dothan, approximately 30 miles east, where Southeast Health offers comprehensive cancer care, including radiation oncology and advanced surgical options.

The drive to Dothan via US Highway 84 typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, residents can utilize US Highway 27, which merges with US Highway 84, offering a slightly longer route, but potentially avoiding congestion. The journey from Enterprise to Montgomery, a larger metropolitan area with more specialized medical centers, involves a drive of approximately 100 miles, primarily via US Highway 84 and Interstate 65. This trip, taking around two hours, opens access to a broader range of medical specialists and treatment options.

Public transportation options in Enterprise are limited. The city does not have a comprehensive public bus system. Therefore, individuals relying on public transit for healthcare access face significant challenges. The absence of robust public transportation negatively impacts the prostate cancer score, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

For those who cannot drive, or prefer not to, ride-sharing services offer an alternative. Uber and Lyft operate in Enterprise, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to Dothan or Montgomery.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, provide another avenue for healthcare access. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The availability and cost of NEMT services vary, and pre-booking is usually required.

The presence of Fort Rucker, a major U.S. Army post, influences the healthcare landscape. Military personnel and their families have access to healthcare services at Lyster Army Health Clinic, located on post. While Lyster offers some urology services, specialized cancer care often requires referrals to off-post facilities. This further emphasizes the importance of transportation options for those associated with Fort Rucker.

Evaluating the prostate cancer score also necessitates consideration of healthcare access for individuals with disabilities. The Medical Center Enterprise is generally compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility for patients with mobility impairments. However, the lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on private vehicles or ride-sharing services pose challenges for those with disabilities.

The prostate cancer score for ZIP Code 36362, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of the Medical Center Enterprise provides local healthcare access, the need for specialized care necessitates travel to Dothan or Montgomery. The dependence on private vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services creates a transportation barrier, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle or those with limited financial resources.

The availability of ride-sharing services offers a degree of flexibility, but the cost and reliability of these services can be a concern. Medical transportation services provide a vital link for patients requiring assistance, but their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

For individuals contemplating moving to Fort Rucker and the surrounding area, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is crucial. Understanding the transportation options, the distances to specialized medical facilities, and the associated costs is essential for making an informed decision. The prostate cancer score, in this context, is not just a numerical value, but a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a community where transportation plays a pivotal role.

The overall prostate cancer score for ZIP Code 36362 is moderate. While local healthcare options exist, the need for specialized care necessitates travel, primarily by private vehicle. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on ride-sharing and medical transportation services create challenges for some residents. Individuals considering a move to the area should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the associated costs to ensure they can access the necessary healthcare services.

The future of healthcare access in Enterprise may be influenced by potential developments in public transportation and the expansion of telehealth services. As technology advances, telehealth could play an increasingly important role in providing remote consultations and follow-up care, potentially mitigating some of the transportation challenges.

Ultimately, the prostate cancer score in Enterprise highlights the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in healthcare access. For those seeking to relocate to this vibrant community, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential for ensuring timely and effective medical care.