19805, Wilmington, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19805, Wilmington, Delaware is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.00 percent of residents in 19805 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilmington Va Medical Center with a distance of 0.95 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wilmington, Delaware (ZIP Code 19805)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, becomes a pivotal factor in treatment and overall well-being. In the vibrant city of Wilmington, Delaware, ZIP code 19805 presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, influenced heavily by transportation options. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of lung cancer care within this area, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation, providing a “Lung Cancer Score” reflecting the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. This score will aid those contemplating moving to Wilmington, offering insights into the practicalities of receiving care.

The cornerstone of assessing healthcare access is the availability of specialized medical facilities. In 19805, residents are fortunate to have proximity to ChristianaCare, a leading healthcare provider with a robust oncology program. Reaching this facility, however, depends on the nuances of local transportation.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the commute is primarily shaped by the major arteries of the region. Driving from the heart of 19805 to ChristianaCare often involves navigating the bustling I-95 corridor. The drive, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, requires careful planning, especially during peak hours. Alternatively, the less congested Route 141 offers a slightly longer but often smoother journey. The local roads, such as Delaware Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue, provide access to smaller clinics and specialist offices, but these may not offer comprehensive lung cancer treatment.

Public transportation provides an alternative, although it presents its own set of considerations. The Delaware Transit Corporation (DTC), operating under the DART First State brand, offers bus routes that serve 19805. Several routes, including the 2, 5, and 6, provide access to areas near ChristianaCare. However, the frequency of these buses, especially during off-peak hours, can impact travel times. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service. The overall travel time via public transit is typically longer than driving, often exceeding 45 minutes to an hour, factoring in wait times and transfers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient option, particularly for those unable to drive or needing immediate transport. The cost of these services can vary significantly depending on demand and distance. Medical transport companies, like MedRide and CareRide, specialize in providing transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often cater to individuals requiring wheelchair assistance or stretcher transport, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey to appointments.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for 19805 is a composite measure, factoring in drive times, public transit accessibility, and availability of alternative transportation options. It also considers the proximity of specialized cancer centers and the overall quality of care.

**The Score:**

Considering the factors mentioned above, the Lung Cancer Score for 19805 is **7 out of 10**. This score reflects a generally good level of healthcare access, but with areas for improvement.

**Breakdown:**

* **Drive Time:** 8/10. Proximity to ChristianaCare via I-95 and Route 141 offers relatively quick access, though traffic can be a factor.
* **Public Transit:** 6/10. DART First State provides viable options, but longer travel times and potential frequency limitations impact the score.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** 8/10. Uber, Lyft, and specialized medical transport services enhance accessibility for those unable to drive.
* **Healthcare Quality:** 9/10. ChristianaCare’s reputation for oncology care significantly boosts the score.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Traffic Congestion:** The I-95 corridor is notorious for traffic, particularly during rush hour. This can significantly increase drive times, impacting healthcare access.
* **Public Transit Frequency:** While DART First State offers bus routes, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a barrier.
* **Cost of Transportation:** Ride-sharing and medical transport services can be expensive, potentially limiting access for individuals with financial constraints.
* **Individual Mobility:** For those with mobility limitations, the availability of ADA-accessible transportation options is crucial.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Increased Public Transit Frequency:** Enhancing the frequency of bus routes, particularly during off-peak hours, would improve accessibility for those relying on public transit.
* **Expanded Ride-Sharing Subsidies:** Exploring programs to subsidize ride-sharing services for patients with limited financial resources could enhance access.
* **Traffic Mitigation Strategies:** Implementing strategies to alleviate traffic congestion on I-95, such as improved traffic management systems, would reduce drive times.
* **Promoting Awareness of Medical Transport:** Raising awareness of medical transport services and their availability would ensure that individuals in need are aware of their options.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for 19805 reflects a favorable environment for healthcare access, particularly due to the presence of ChristianaCare. However, the score underscores the importance of considering transportation options when assessing healthcare access. For individuals contemplating moving to Wilmington, Delaware, the availability of diverse transportation choices offers a degree of flexibility in accessing essential medical services. By understanding the nuances of drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation, residents can navigate the healthcare landscape effectively, ensuring timely access to vital treatments. The ongoing efforts to improve public transit, mitigate traffic congestion, and support accessible transportation options will further enhance the healthcare experience for residents of 19805.