36524, Coffeeville, Alabama Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 36524, Coffeeville, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.59 percent of residents in 36524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grove Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.26 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coffeeville, AL (ZIP Code 36524)

Coffeeville, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Clarke County, offers a tranquil, rural lifestyle. For those considering a move to this charming community, particularly those with a family history of prostate cancer or facing a recent diagnosis, understanding **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options and the practicalities of reaching essential medical services. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a clear picture of the healthcare landscape for potential residents.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical evaluation. Instead, it's a qualitative assessment of the ease and efficiency with which individuals in ZIP Code 36524 can access prostate cancer-related healthcare. Factors considered include travel time, **transportation** options, and the availability of specialized medical facilities. The score will help prospective residents gauge the practicality of managing their health needs within the local context.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

Coffeeville's remoteness significantly impacts **healthcare access**. The nearest major medical centers equipped to handle prostate cancer diagnoses, treatment, and follow-up care are located in Mobile, Alabama, approximately 100 miles south. The primary route involves traveling south on US-84 East, a well-maintained highway that offers a relatively smooth drive. Expect a drive time of roughly two hours, assuming normal traffic conditions.

Alternatively, residents can utilize AL-17 South, which connects to US-98. This route, while potentially shorter in distance, can be subject to more traffic, especially during peak hours, and might add 15-30 minutes to the journey. This is a significant consideration, especially for those undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms requiring prompt medical attention.

Further, the condition of local roads is a factor. While US-84 and AL-17 are generally in good repair, the secondary roads leading to them can vary. This is especially relevant for those with limited mobility or those using personal vehicles that might be less reliable. Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial for residents of Coffeeville.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Coffeeville are extremely limited. Clarke County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. There are no established bus routes that connect Coffeeville directly to Mobile or other medical centers.

Therefore, relying on public transit for **healthcare access** is virtually impossible. This lack of public **transportation** underscores the necessity of having a personal vehicle or relying on alternative options, such as ride-sharing or medical transport.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Mobile. However, their presence in Coffeeville is less certain. Availability is often dependent on driver density and demand. Residents may find it challenging to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening.

Medical transport services offer a more reliable, albeit potentially more expensive, solution. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region. These services provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, booking in advance is crucial, and costs can vary based on distance and the level of care required.

**Healthcare Facilities and Specialists:**

While Coffeeville itself lacks specialized prostate cancer treatment facilities, the University of South Alabama Medical Center in Mobile is a leading provider. This facility offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Other hospitals in Mobile, such as Providence Hospital and Mobile Infirmary Medical Center, also offer cancer care services.

Additionally, specialized urology clinics and cancer centers in Mobile provide access to experienced oncologists and urologists. These specialists are essential for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management of prostate cancer. The availability of these specialists is a key factor in the "Prostate Cancer Score."

**ADA Accessibility Considerations:**

For individuals with disabilities, ADA accessibility is a critical concern. While the University of South Alabama Medical Center and other major medical facilities in Mobile are ADA compliant, ensuring accessible **transportation** to these facilities is essential. This may involve requesting wheelchair-accessible vehicles from ride-sharing services or medical transport providers.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Coffeeville (36524):**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Coffeeville, Alabama, is moderate to low. While high-quality medical care is available in Mobile, the significant drive time and limited **transportation** options pose challenges. Residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles, which necessitates reliable transportation and regular maintenance.

The absence of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate **healthcare access**. Medical transport services offer a more reliable alternative but come with increased costs.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

For those considering **moving to Coffeeville** with a history of prostate cancer or facing a new diagnosis, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is crucial. Owning a reliable vehicle is highly recommended. Establishing relationships with local medical transport providers is also advisable.

Furthermore, residents should familiarize themselves with the location of medical facilities in Mobile and the routes to them. Planning appointments in advance and factoring in potential travel delays is essential.

Finally, exploring options for telehealth consultations with specialists in Mobile can help reduce the frequency of in-person visits, easing the burden of travel.

**Conclusion:**

While Coffeeville offers a serene environment, the limitations in **healthcare access** are a significant consideration. Prospective residents must carefully weigh the benefits of rural living against the challenges of accessing specialized medical care. A proactive approach to **transportation** planning, including owning a reliable vehicle, exploring medical transport options, and leveraging telehealth services, is essential for successfully managing prostate cancer in this community. The "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the need for careful planning and a realistic understanding of the healthcare landscape when **moving to Coffeeville**.