36567, Robertsdale, Alabama Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 36567, Robertsdale, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.63 percent of residents in 36567 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Baldwin Regional Medical Center with a distance of 11.10 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36567 (Robertsdale, Alabama)**

The sun-drenched landscape of Robertsdale, Alabama, nestled in Baldwin County, offers a tranquil setting for life. For those considering moving to Robertsdale, understanding healthcare access, particularly for a critical condition like prostate cancer, is paramount. This assessment explores the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 36567, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to gauge the ease with which residents can access vital medical services. This analysis informs a "Prostate Cancer Score," a metric reflecting the accessibility of healthcare facilities specializing in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The foundation of this score lies in understanding the commute to healthcare. Robertsdale's location presents both advantages and challenges. The town is relatively close to larger urban centers offering advanced medical care, but transportation infrastructure dictates the ease of access. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are US Highway 90 and Alabama State Route 59. US 90, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides a direct route to Mobile, approximately 35 miles west. Alabama 59, running north-south, offers access to Foley and Gulf Shores to the south.

The drive time to Mobile, where significant healthcare resources are concentrated, is typically around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This is the most common destination for advanced medical care. The journey utilizes US 90 and, potentially, Interstate 10, which offers a faster but often more congested route. The drive to Foley, home to Thomas Hospital, a regional medical center, takes approximately 20-30 minutes via Alabama 59. This shorter commute provides an alternative for some services.

Public transit options in Robertsdale are limited. Baldwin County operates a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are restricted, primarily serving essential needs rather than specialized medical appointments. Information on specific routes, including bus numbers and ADA accessibility features, is not readily available online. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This deficiency is a major factor in calculating the Prostate Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Robertsdale area. However, their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited during peak hours or in less populated areas, potentially causing delays or increased expenses for medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent visits associated with prostate cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Medical transport services are available. These are often more expensive but can provide a reliable option for patients with mobility issues or those needing specialized assistance.

The availability of medical facilities specializing in prostate cancer treatment within reasonable driving distance is crucial. Mobile hosts several hospitals and clinics with urology departments and oncology services. These facilities offer a range of diagnostic tools, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, biopsies, and imaging. They also provide various treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. The proximity to these facilities is a significant positive factor in the Prostate Cancer Score.

Foley, while closer, offers fewer specialized services. While Thomas Hospital provides general medical care, patients may need to travel to Mobile for more advanced prostate cancer treatments. This necessitates considering the travel time and transportation challenges discussed earlier. The presence of specialized clinics and treatment centers directly impacts the Prostate Cancer Score.

The Prostate Cancer Score is calculated by considering several factors. The primary factor is the drive time to facilities offering prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The availability and reliability of public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport services are also significant contributors. The cost of transportation and the patient’s ability to afford these services are also considered.

The score also reflects the availability of support services, such as support groups and patient education programs. Access to these resources can significantly improve the patient's experience and outcomes. These resources are often located in the same facilities as the treatment centers. The overall quality of healthcare, including the expertise of physicians and the availability of advanced technologies, is another critical component.

The Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP code 36567 is therefore a reflection of the overall healthcare access for prostate cancer patients. The score is not a static number. It can change based on improvements in transportation infrastructure, the opening of new medical facilities, or changes in the availability of support services.

For residents of Robertsdale considering a move, or those already living there, understanding this score is vital. It provides a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare for prostate cancer. Careful consideration of these factors is essential when making decisions about healthcare and quality of life.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Robertsdale, Alabama, highlights the challenges of healthcare access within ZIP code 36567. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles present hurdles. The drive times to Mobile, where the majority of specialized services are located, are manageable but can be impacted by traffic. Ride-sharing offers an alternative, but its cost and availability may be problematic.

The score acknowledges the presence of medical facilities, but emphasizes the need for reliable transportation. The score is not a simple number, but a nuanced assessment of the healthcare landscape. It serves as a tool for residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, highlighting the importance of planning and preparation. This is especially true for those facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. The score encourages proactive engagement with healthcare providers and community resources to ensure optimal care.