19936, Cheswold, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19936, Cheswold, Delaware is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.29 percent of residents in 19936 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus with a distance of 5.54 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cheswold, Delaware (ZIP Code 19936)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and reliable access to healthcare. For residents of Cheswold, Delaware (ZIP Code 19936), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care is heavily influenced by the availability and efficiency of transportation. This "Lung Cancer Score" assesses the landscape of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the practicalities of getting to and from medical appointments, considering the unique challenges faced by individuals battling this disease. It's a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Cheswold, Delaware, as it directly impacts their quality of life.

The primary healthcare hub for Cheswold residents is likely to be located in Dover, Delaware, a city offering a range of medical facilities. The drive, a critical component of this assessment, is largely dictated by the presence of Route 13, a major north-south artery. A direct route from Cheswold to Dover Regional Medical Center, for instance, is approximately 10 miles. Under ideal conditions, this drive might take around 15-20 minutes. However, this estimate is susceptible to the unpredictable nature of traffic, especially during peak hours.

Route 13, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, particularly around the intersections with local roads. Another option is Route 1, a limited-access highway, which offers a potentially faster route, bypassing some of the local traffic. However, this option might require a slightly longer initial drive to access the highway. The availability of these two primary routes offers some flexibility, but the reliance on personal vehicles remains a key factor in healthcare access.

Public transportation options, while present, are less robust in this area. DART First State, Delaware's public transit system, provides bus services. However, the frequency of routes and the geographical coverage within Cheswold and the surrounding areas may be limited. Route 301, for example, could be a potential route, but the schedule and stops need careful consideration. Crucially, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses, including features like ramps and designated seating, is a vital consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, a common challenge for lung cancer patients.

The reliance on public transportation can significantly extend travel times. A bus ride to Dover, even if the route is direct, could easily take 45 minutes to an hour, factoring in waiting times and potential transfers. This extended travel time can be particularly burdensome for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects. Therefore, the availability and efficiency of public transit are critical, but its limitations must be acknowledged.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. Their presence in Cheswold provides on-demand access to transportation, offering a potentially more convenient option than public transit. The availability of these services, however, can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, posing a financial burden for patients already facing significant medical expenses.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, represent another option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) can provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel to assist patients. The availability of these services in the Cheswold area and their associated costs should be carefully researched.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must also consider the proximity of other healthcare facilities. While Dover is the likely primary destination, access to specialists, such as oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapists, could necessitate travel to other locations, such as Wilmington or Philadelphia. This would significantly increase travel times and potentially involve longer drives on major highways like I-95, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The availability of support services, such as home healthcare, is another crucial factor. Access to in-home nursing care, physical therapy, and other support services can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients, reducing the need for frequent trips to medical facilities. The availability and accessibility of these services within Cheswold are essential.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Cheswold, Delaware (ZIP Code 19936), reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Dover offers relatively convenient access to healthcare facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential costs of ride-sharing services and medical transport services pose challenges. Anyone considering moving to Cheswold, Delaware, must carefully evaluate their individual needs and capabilities, considering the impact of transportation on their ability to receive timely and effective healthcare.

The best course of action for individuals considering moving to Cheswold, Delaware, and facing a lung cancer diagnosis or treatment, is to conduct thorough research. This includes contacting local healthcare providers, researching transportation options, and assessing the availability of support services. Understanding the intricacies of transportation and healthcare access is paramount in navigating the complexities of this devastating disease. The goal is to ensure that patients can focus on their treatment and recovery, rather than being burdened by the challenges of getting to and from their appointments.