19902, Dover Afb, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19902, Dover Afb, Delaware is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 19902 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus with a distance of 3.28 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19902

The air in Dover, Delaware, carries a distinct character, a blend of coastal breezes and the hum of activity surrounding Dover Air Force Base. For residents of ZIP Code 19902, the journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the daunting diagnosis of lung cancer, is a critical consideration. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This is particularly relevant for individuals and families moving to Dover, including those connected to the base, who must navigate the complexities of healthcare access.

The foundation of any healthcare journey is the ability to reach medical facilities. In 19902, the primary arteries for vehicular transportation are Route 1, the major north-south corridor, and US-13, the older, more congested route. The drive to Bayhealth Kent Campus, the primary hospital in Dover, is typically a swift one, with Route 1 offering the fastest passage. During off-peak hours, the commute is a mere 10-15 minutes, a blessing for those facing urgent medical needs or regular treatments. However, the Lung Cancer Score dips during rush hour. Congestion on Route 1, especially near the Dover Air Force Base exit, can extend the journey to 30 minutes or more. US-13, while a viable alternative, is often slower due to traffic lights and a higher volume of local traffic.

Beyond the hospital, access to specialized cancer care is vital. The closest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Wilmington, Delaware, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. These trips represent a significant increase in commute time, impacting the Lung Cancer Score. Traveling north on Route 1 to Wilmington can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Philadelphia, a further journey, necessitates navigating the Delaware Memorial Bridge and I-95, extending the commute to 2 hours or more. This extended travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transportation provides an alternative, but its limitations significantly affect the Lung Cancer Score. DART First State, Delaware's public transit system, offers bus routes serving Dover. Route 301 provides a connection to the hospital, but the frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, can be a significant barrier. The travel time on Route 301 is often longer than driving, adding to the burden on patients. The system does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, a crucial consideration for those undergoing cancer treatment. However, the overall lack of extensive coverage and the limited frequency of routes diminish the value of public transit in this context.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation solution, improving the Lung Cancer Score. Availability in Dover is generally good, and these services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for parking or navigating complex bus routes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments. The Lung Cancer Score reflects this financial aspect, recognizing that consistent access to care shouldn’t be solely dependent on disposable income.

Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance, catering to patients with specific needs. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and others provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, catering to patients who require assistance with mobility. While these services are invaluable, they often require pre-booking and can be expensive, further impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the impact of environmental factors. The proximity of the Dover Air Force Base introduces potential air quality concerns. While the base adheres to strict environmental regulations, the presence of aircraft and associated activities can contribute to air pollution. This is especially relevant for individuals with compromised respiratory systems, potentially exacerbating the effects of lung cancer.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 19902 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity of Bayhealth Kent Campus provides good healthcare access for basic medical needs. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the extended commute times to specialized cancer centers in Wilmington and Philadelphia present challenges. The limitations of public transportation and the cost of ride-sharing services further impact the score. The air quality concerns associated with the Dover Air Force Base also contribute to a slightly lower score.

For individuals and families considering moving to Dover, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, a careful assessment of transportation needs is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score underscores the importance of:

* **Prioritizing proximity to healthcare:** If possible, selecting housing closer to Bayhealth Kent Campus or other medical facilities is advantageous.
* **Considering car ownership:** Reliable personal transportation is essential for navigating the area.
* **Budgeting for transportation costs:** Ride-sharing and medical transportation services can be valuable, but their cost should be factored into the budget.
* **Exploring all available resources:** Patients should familiarize themselves with DART First State routes, ADA accessibility, and medical transportation options.
* **Advocating for improved public transit:** Supporting initiatives to expand public transportation services, particularly those connecting to cancer centers, would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not merely about the availability of medical facilities; it is about the ability to reach them. For residents of 19902, the journey to healthcare is a complex one, and careful planning and consideration of transportation options are essential to navigating the challenges of lung cancer treatment and recovery.