19901, Dover, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19901, Dover, Delaware is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.41 percent of residents in 19901 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus with a distance of 0.22 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dover, DE (ZIP Code 19901)

The diagnosis of lung cancer can be a life-altering event, demanding immediate and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Dover, Delaware (ZIP Code 19901), the journey to treatment is inextricably linked to the available transportation options. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare facilities, focusing on transportation modalities within and around this specific ZIP code. It's a critical consideration for anyone facing this diagnosis, or for those considering moving to Dover seeking optimal healthcare access.

The primary healthcare provider in the area is Bayhealth Kent Campus, located at 640 South State Street. This hospital is a central hub for cancer care, offering diagnostic services, treatment options, and supportive care. The accessibility of Bayhealth, and other potential healthcare facilities, is the cornerstone of our Lung Cancer Score.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for residents of Dover. From many points within 19901, the drive to Bayhealth is relatively straightforward. State Route 1, a major north-south artery, provides quick access for those living east of Dover. Residents west of Dover can utilize U.S. Route 13, a parallel route, to reach the hospital. The drive time, under normal traffic conditions, is typically under 15 minutes. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times, especially on Route 1.

Navigating local roads such as Loockerman Street and Division Street, which intersect with South State Street, requires careful attention to traffic signals and potential delays. Understanding these traffic patterns is crucial for patients managing appointments and treatments. The Lung Cancer Score considers these variables, factoring in potential delays and the impact on a patient’s physical and emotional well-being.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though it presents certain challenges. Delaware Transit Corporation (DART First State) provides bus service throughout Dover. Several routes serve the area, including the Route 100, which runs along South State Street and stops near Bayhealth. Route 301, which runs along Loockerman Street, also provides access to the hospital.

However, public transit in Dover, like many smaller cities, has limitations. Frequency of service can be an issue, with buses running less frequently on weekends and evenings. ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. DART First State buses are equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the journey from a bus stop to a healthcare facility can still pose challenges for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues.

The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the accessibility of bus stops from various residential locations within 19901, considering factors like sidewalk availability, lighting, and proximity to crosswalks. It also assesses the ease of transferring between routes if necessary.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Dover. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, factoring in surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. The Lung Cancer Score identifies and evaluates the availability of medical transportation providers in the area, considering their service area, cost, and the types of assistance offered.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of specialized cancer centers and treatment facilities outside of Bayhealth. While Bayhealth serves as the primary healthcare provider, patients may require specialized care or wish to seek second opinions at facilities located further afield. The drive times to these facilities, such as those in Wilmington or Philadelphia, are significant.

For example, a drive to the ChristianaCare Cancer Center in Wilmington, DE, typically takes approximately one hour via Route 1. A trip to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA, can take up to two hours, depending on traffic. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the feasibility of these longer journeys, considering the patient's physical condition, the availability of support services, and the potential impact on their treatment schedule.

The score incorporates factors such as parking availability at each healthcare facility, the presence of valet services, and the ease of navigating the facility once inside. The availability of patient support services, such as transportation assistance programs offered by the hospital or cancer support organizations, is also factored into the score.

For individuals considering moving to Dover, the Lung Cancer Score provides a critical assessment of healthcare access. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measure; it is a dynamic assessment that evolves as transportation options and healthcare services change. Regular updates will be provided to reflect any changes in public transit routes, the availability of ride-sharing services, or the expansion of healthcare facilities.

The ultimate goal of the Lung Cancer Score is to empower patients and their families with the information they need to navigate the complexities of healthcare access in Dover, DE (ZIP Code 19901). It is a tool designed to promote informed decision-making, ensuring that patients can receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve, regardless of their transportation challenges. The score is designed to be a practical guide, providing valuable insights for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis, or contemplating moving to Dover.