19943, Felton, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19943, Felton, Delaware is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.32 percent of residents in 19943 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus with a distance of 9.71 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Felton, Delaware (ZIP Code 19943)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, extends far beyond the medical examination room. It encompasses the accessibility and efficiency of **transportation** options, a crucial element in the overall well-being and treatment adherence of patients. This report, a Lung Cancer Score analysis for residents of Felton, Delaware (ZIP code 19943), delves into the nuances of **healthcare access**, considering the specific challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure.

Felton, a small town nestled in Kent County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare navigation. The rural setting, while offering a sense of tranquility, often translates to longer travel times and limited public **transportation** options. Understanding these constraints is paramount in assessing the Lung Cancer Score for this community. The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

The primary artery for vehicular **transportation** in and out of Felton is Route 13, also known as DuPont Highway. This major north-south thoroughfare provides access to hospitals and specialized medical centers located in Dover and Milford, the nearest cities with comprehensive cancer care facilities. Driving times to these locations are crucial.

A drive to Bayhealth Kent Campus in Dover, a facility offering oncology services, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey primarily involves navigating Route 13. During peak hours, especially morning and evening commutes, traffic congestion can significantly extend travel times, adding stress and potentially impacting appointments.

The drive to Milford Wellness Village, another potential healthcare destination, follows a similar pattern. Utilizing Route 13 south, the travel time is roughly 25-35 minutes. This route also experiences traffic fluctuations, emphasizing the need for careful planning and flexibility. Alternative routes, such as utilizing local roads to bypass congested areas, may be considered, but these often add time and increase the complexity of the journey.

Public **transportation** options in Felton are limited. DART First State, Delaware's public transit system, provides bus service in the area. Route 301 serves the Dover and Milford areas, offering connections to medical facilities. However, the frequency of these buses can be infrequent, and the routes may not directly serve all healthcare locations.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration. Patients with mobility limitations must be assured that **transportation** options are readily available and equipped to accommodate their needs. Investigating the specific routes and schedules, along with the availability of wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features, is vital in evaluating the Lung Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Felton area. While offering a convenient alternative to driving, their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or for early morning appointments, needs consideration. The financial burden of frequent ride-sharing trips can also pose a significant challenge for patients.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring specialized assistance, are another option. These services provide door-to-door **transportation**, often with trained personnel. Companies such as AMR (American Medical Response) and local private medical transport providers operate in the area. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior arrangements.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the impact of **moving to Felton** on healthcare access. Individuals considering relocating to this area must carefully evaluate the **transportation** landscape. The distance to specialized cancer care, the availability of public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles are all crucial factors.

For individuals without personal vehicles, the reliance on public transit or ride-sharing services can create significant barriers to care. The potential for missed appointments, delayed treatments, and increased stress levels must be addressed. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators who can assist with **transportation** arrangements, is crucial.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Felton reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**. While the proximity to Dover and Milford offers access to cancer care facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic delays create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services provides an alternative, but cost and reliability remain concerns.

Improving the Lung Cancer Score requires a multifaceted approach. Enhancements to public transit, including increased frequency and expanded routes, are essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, **transportation** services, and community organizations can improve patient access.

Furthermore, exploring initiatives such as subsidized ride-sharing programs or partnerships with medical transport providers can alleviate the financial burden of **transportation**. Patient education programs that emphasize the importance of **transportation** planning and provide information about available resources are also vital.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Felton, Delaware (ZIP code 19943) highlights the importance of **transportation** in the fight against cancer. By acknowledging the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, healthcare providers, community leaders, and individuals can work together to improve **healthcare access** and ensure that residents of Felton receive the care they need, regardless of their **transportation** limitations. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of navigating healthcare in this community and underscores the need for continued efforts to improve the overall quality of life for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.