19803, Wilmington, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19803, Wilmington, Delaware is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.40 percent of residents in 19803 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware with a distance of 1.77 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wilmington's 19803

Considering a move to Wilmington, Delaware's 19803 ZIP code? Understanding healthcare access, particularly for a serious condition like lung cancer, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the ease of transportation to key medical facilities offering oncology services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive picture of navigating healthcare in this area.

The 19803 ZIP code, encompassing the heart of Wilmington, presents a unique transportation landscape. Proximity to major roadways is a double-edged sword, offering quick access to some facilities while potentially creating congestion during peak hours. Our focus is on the practicalities of reaching oncology services, crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. This assessment considers the realities of living and commuting in this area.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary healthcare hub for lung cancer treatment in this area is ChristianaCare's Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute, located in Newark, DE. Driving from various points within 19803, the journey's duration fluctuates significantly depending on the time of day and traffic flow.

From the northern reaches of 19803, near Rockford Park, expect a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours. The route typically involves heading south on **Pennsylvania Avenue**, a key artery through Wilmington, before merging onto **I-95 South**. This stretch can become heavily congested, especially during rush hour, potentially adding 15-20 minutes to the commute. Alternatively, you might opt for **Delaware Avenue** to **Route 52 South**, a scenic but slower route, adding 10-15 minutes.

Residents in the southern part of 19803, closer to the Brandywine River, face similar challenges. The most direct route involves navigating **Delaware Avenue** or **Market Street** to **I-95 North**, which then connects to **Route 7 South** toward the Cancer Center. This route generally takes 25-35 minutes in off-peak hours, but can easily extend to 45 minutes or more during rush hour.

The journey also necessitates awareness of potential delays due to accidents or construction. Monitoring traffic reports and utilizing navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze is crucial. These tools provide real-time updates, allowing patients and their families to adjust their travel plans accordingly. This proactive approach is essential for minimizing stress and ensuring timely arrival for appointments.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

Delaware's public transportation system, DART First State, offers a network of bus routes serving the 19803 area. While providing an alternative to driving, it's important to assess the practicality of these routes for cancer patients.

Several routes connect the 19803 ZIP code to Wilmington's train station, where connections to regional rail lines are possible. These lines could potentially provide access to healthcare facilities outside of Wilmington. The **Route 2** bus, running along **Delaware Avenue**, offers frequent service, but the journey to the Cancer Center would involve multiple transfers and could take over an hour, making it a less desirable option for frequent appointments.

The **Route 4** bus, running along **Market Street**, provides another option. This route also connects to the train station. However, similar to Route 2, the travel time and the need for transfers make it less convenient.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a key consideration. DART First State buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of these features and the ease of boarding and disembarking can vary. Confirming ADA accessibility on specific routes and at specific stops is crucial.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: On-Demand Healthcare**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services are readily available in the 19803 area. The cost of these services can vary depending on demand and the time of day.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring more specialized assistance, medical transportation services are available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking.

Several companies operate in the Wilmington area, including First Transit and Senior Transportation. These services require advance booking and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers. Investigating the availability and cost of these services is a crucial part of planning healthcare access.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Perspective**

Evaluating healthcare access in 19803 requires a holistic approach. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a single number but a synthesis of the factors we've discussed.

Drive times to the Cancer Center are manageable during off-peak hours, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times. Public transit offers an alternative, but the multiple transfers and extended travel times may be challenging for patients undergoing treatment. Ride-sharing services provide convenience, but the cost must be factored in. Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance, but require advance planning.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 19803 is moderate. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the transportation challenges require careful planning and consideration. Residents of 19803, and those considering moving to Wilmington, must carefully assess their individual needs and preferences when evaluating healthcare access. This includes considering their physical condition, financial resources, and the support network available to them.

**Moving to Wilmington:**

For those considering moving to Wilmington, the 19803 ZIP code offers a vibrant urban environment. However, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is critical. Researching the availability of healthcare services, assessing the practicality of various transportation options, and planning for potential challenges are essential steps in making an informed decision. This analysis provides a starting point for navigating healthcare access in 19803, ensuring that residents can receive the timely and effective care they deserve.