28358, Lumberton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28358, Lumberton, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.50 percent of residents in 28358 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.07 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lumberton, NC (ZIP Code 28358)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, and the journey to recovery is often a complex one. Beyond the medical treatments themselves, factors like access to quality healthcare, including diagnostic imaging, surgical options, and specialized oncology care, significantly impact a patient’s prognosis and overall well-being. This write-up, a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment for residents of Lumberton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28358), focuses on the critical element of **transportation** and its influence on **healthcare access**, especially for those newly **moving to Lumberton** or seeking treatment in the area.

Lumberton, nestled in the heart of Robeson County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. While the town offers local medical facilities, the scope of specialized cancer care may necessitate travel to larger medical centers. Understanding the available **transportation** options is therefore crucial for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This assessment will examine the various methods available, from personal vehicles to public **transportation**, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive overview of navigating the healthcare landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation**. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the road network and the distance to specialized medical facilities. Lumberton is strategically positioned near several major roadways, offering potential access to a wider range of healthcare providers.

The primary artery through Lumberton is Interstate 95 (I-95), a vital north-south route. Heading south on I-95 offers access to facilities in Florence, South Carolina, approximately an hour's drive. This might be a viable option for some specialized services. Conversely, traveling north on I-95 connects to larger medical centers in Fayetteville, North Carolina, roughly a 45-minute drive. Fayetteville boasts a greater concentration of specialists and advanced treatment options, making it a critical destination for many patients.

Within Lumberton, the primary thoroughfares are U.S. Highway 74 and U.S. Highway 301. These roads provide access to local medical facilities, including Southeastern Regional Medical Center, which offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and some cancer treatments. However, for more complex cases or specialized care, the proximity to I-95 becomes paramount.

The drive times, while relatively manageable, are subject to traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly around Fayetteville, can significantly extend travel times. Therefore, patients and their caregivers must factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments and planning treatment regimens. Understanding the local traffic patterns is an essential component of effective **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City and Beyond**

Public **transportation** options in Lumberton are limited but available. The Robeson County Area Transportation System (RCATS) provides fixed-route bus service within the county. While the system might offer a degree of mobility for local errands, its routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the specific needs of patients undergoing cancer treatment.

The RCATS system's routes, while not explicitly designed for medical **transportation**, may offer some limited access to local medical facilities. The buses are generally ADA-accessible, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers may present significant challenges for patients who are undergoing treatment, experiencing side effects, or require frequent appointments.

For patients needing to travel to Fayetteville or other distant locations, public **transportation** is not a practical option. The lack of direct bus routes and the extended travel times would make it difficult to attend appointments, receive treatments, and manage the physical demands of cancer care.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Lumberton, offering a potential solution for patients who lack personal vehicles or are unable to drive. These services provide on-demand **transportation**, offering a degree of flexibility and convenience. However, the availability of drivers and the cost of rides can vary, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited demand.

For patients undergoing cancer treatment, the cost of ride-sharing services can quickly accumulate, posing a financial burden. Furthermore, the reliability of these services is not always guaranteed, and patients may face delays or cancellations, potentially disrupting their treatment schedules.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide door-to-door **transportation**, assisting patients with mobility challenges and ensuring their safe and comfortable travel to and from medical appointments.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the Lumberton area, including companies that offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients with their needs. The cost of these services is typically higher than ride-sharing, but they offer a greater degree of reliability, comfort, and specialized care.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Lumberton (ZIP code 28358) is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**. The score recognizes the importance of personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, the potential benefits of ride-sharing, and the specialized services offered by medical **transportation** providers.

For individuals **moving to Lumberton** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the score emphasizes the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options. The proximity to I-95 offers access to specialized care in Fayetteville and other areas. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited availability of public **transportation**, and the cost of ride-sharing services highlight the challenges faced by patients who may not have access to reliable **transportation**.

The score underscores the importance of exploring all available resources, including medical **transportation** services, financial assistance programs, and support networks that can provide assistance with **transportation** costs. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents of Lumberton have equitable **healthcare access**, regardless of their **transportation** challenges.

The journey through breast cancer treatment is a marathon, not a sprint. Having reliable and accessible **transportation** is essential for patients to focus on their health and well-being. The “Breast Cancer Score” for Lumberton aims to provide a framework for understanding the **transportation** landscape and empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.