19808, Wilmington, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19808, Wilmington, Delaware is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.64 percent of residents in 19808 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rockford Center with a distance of 2.83 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wilmington's 19808

The diagnosis of lung cancer, a life-altering event, necessitates immediate access to specialized medical care. For residents of Wilmington's 19808 ZIP code, understanding the nuances of transportation options to healthcare facilities is crucial. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for this area, focusing on accessibility to essential cancer treatment centers, considering factors like drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions. It aims to provide a comprehensive guide for residents and those *moving to Wilmington*, ensuring informed decisions regarding healthcare access.

The 19808 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Highlands and Rockford Park, presents a unique transportation landscape. Its proximity to Wilmington's core offers relatively easy access to several hospitals and cancer treatment facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the challenges of public transportation, necessitates a detailed examination of available options. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a descriptive analysis of transportation factors impacting healthcare access.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the most direct route to healthcare is via personal vehicle. The primary arteries serving 19808 are **Delaware Avenue**, **Pennsylvania Avenue**, and **North Market Street**. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience significant congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Driving to ChristianaCare's Wilmington Hospital, a key healthcare provider, typically takes 10-15 minutes via Delaware Avenue, depending on traffic. The journey to Christiana Hospital in Newark, a major cancer treatment center, involves navigating the **I-95** corridor. This commute can range from 20-40 minutes, significantly impacted by rush hour delays.

The journey to Nemours Children's Health, though primarily focused on pediatric care, also offers adult oncology services. Accessing Nemours from 19808 typically involves a 15-20 minute drive, often utilizing **Delaware Avenue** and **Rockford Road**. Driving times are a critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score," as they directly influence the speed with which patients can reach vital medical services.

**Public Transit: A Network of Routes**

Delaware's public transportation system, DART First State, provides bus service throughout Wilmington. Several routes traverse the 19808 area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, public *transportation* presents its own set of challenges.

Route 2, serving **Delaware Avenue**, provides a connection to Wilmington Hospital and downtown Wilmington. Route 6, traveling along **Pennsylvania Avenue**, offers access to various destinations, including medical offices. Route 11, running through the Rockford Park area, provides another option for local travel.

The accessibility of public transit is a crucial element. DART strives to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, with buses equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited, impacting the reliability of public *transportation* for cancer patients. Travel times on public transit are often significantly longer than driving, adding to the stress of medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to both driving and public transit. These services are readily available in Wilmington, providing on-demand *transportation* to healthcare facilities. The convenience of ride-sharing is undeniable, but costs can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another option. Companies like CareRide and First Transit provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, often with specialized vehicles and trained drivers. These services are particularly beneficial for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their condition. However, availability and coverage areas should be carefully investigated.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Lung Cancer Score" in 19808 is not solely determined by the availability of *transportation*. It also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized cancer treatment, and the overall quality of care. Wilmington offers several hospitals and cancer centers, but factors like appointment availability and insurance coverage can influence access.

The presence of comprehensive cancer centers, such as those at ChristianaCare and Nemours, is a significant advantage for residents. These centers offer multidisciplinary teams, advanced treatment options, and supportive care services. However, the journey to these facilities, whether by car, bus, or ride-share, is a critical factor in the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

**Moving to Wilmington: A Consideration for Healthcare**

For individuals *moving to Wilmington*, especially those with a history of cancer or other serious health conditions, the availability and accessibility of healthcare are paramount. The 19808 ZIP code offers a favorable location, with relatively easy access to major hospitals. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit should be carefully considered.

Before relocating, prospective residents should research the *transportation* options available to their preferred healthcare providers. They should also investigate the availability of medical *transportation* services and the accessibility of public transit routes. Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring timely access to vital medical care.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 19808 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area benefits from its proximity to major hospitals and cancer centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public *transportation* present challenges. Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services offer alternative solutions, but costs and availability must be considered.

Residents of 19808, and those *moving to Wilmington*, should proactively assess their *transportation* needs and familiarize themselves with the available options. Planning ahead, considering potential delays, and exploring all available resources can significantly improve access to healthcare and contribute to a positive outcome in the face of a lung cancer diagnosis. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static value; it is a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in *transportation* infrastructure, healthcare services, and individual needs.