19945, Frankford, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19945, Frankford, Delaware is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.20 percent of residents in 19945 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beebe Medical Center with a distance of 17.43 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Frankford (ZIP Code 19945)

The crisp Delaware air, the historic charm of Frankford, and the promise of a fresh start beckon those considering a move to ZIP code 19945. However, before packing your bags, it’s crucial to assess a critical aspect of your well-being: healthcare access, specifically for a potentially life-threatening condition like lung cancer. This Lung Cancer Score analyzes the transportation landscape surrounding Frankford, Delaware, to determine the ease with which residents can reach essential medical facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

Our analysis focuses on the critical elements of transportation: drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to provide a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities that residents face when navigating the healthcare system, particularly concerning lung cancer treatment.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Recovery**

Frankford, a town nestled within Sussex County, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the area boasts a relatively low population density, the distance to specialized medical centers can be considerable. For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, timely access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapy is paramount.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare in the region is **Delaware Route 1**. This major north-south highway offers the quickest route to hospitals in Dover and Wilmington. However, during peak hours, traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying critical appointments. Driving from Frankford to the ChristianaCare hospital in Wilmington, a leading cancer treatment center, can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic.

Alternative routes include **U.S. Route 113**, a slower, more scenic road that meanders through the heart of Sussex County. This route, while offering a less stressful driving experience, adds considerable time to the journey. Local roads like **Delaware Route 26** and **Delaware Route 54** provide access to smaller medical facilities and primary care physicians, but they are not equipped to handle the complex needs of lung cancer patients.

Considering the unpredictable nature of lung cancer treatment, the ability to reach these facilities quickly and reliably is a significant factor. The Lung Cancer Score considers these drive times and traffic patterns to assess the accessibility of specialized care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Frankford are limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The Delaware Transit Corporation (DTC), also known as DART First State, provides bus services throughout the state. However, the routes serving Frankford are infrequent and primarily designed to connect residents to local towns and shopping centers.

The primary bus route serving Frankford is Route 303, which travels north to Georgetown and south to Ocean City, Maryland. While this route offers a connection to healthcare facilities in Georgetown, it does not directly access the major cancer centers in Dover or Wilmington. Furthermore, the limited frequency of the route and the potential for long travel times make it an unreliable option for urgent medical needs.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. DART First State buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations to ensure accessibility for passengers with disabilities. However, the extended travel times and the need for transfers can create significant challenges for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

The Lung Cancer Score takes into account the limitations of public transportation in Frankford, recognizing its inadequacy in providing timely and reliable access to specialized lung cancer care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a potential solution for individuals needing transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of these services in Frankford can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients undergoing prolonged treatment.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients during their journeys. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and can be expensive.

The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the availability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing and medical transport services in the Frankford area. It considers these options as potential solutions for overcoming transportation barriers but acknowledges their limitations.

**The Healthcare Landscape: Where to Seek Care**

Several healthcare facilities are within reasonable driving distance of Frankford, each offering varying levels of lung cancer care. The closest option is Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, which offers primary care and some specialized services. However, for comprehensive lung cancer treatment, including radiation therapy and advanced surgical procedures, patients often need to travel to larger medical centers.

ChristianaCare in Wilmington is a leading cancer treatment center, offering a full range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The drive time to ChristianaCare, as mentioned previously, can be significant, especially considering potential traffic delays.

Bayhealth in Dover is another option, offering cancer care services. The drive time to Bayhealth is shorter than to Wilmington, but the range of specialized services may be more limited.

The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the proximity and accessibility of these healthcare facilities, considering the drive times, transportation options, and the availability of specialized services.

**Moving to Frankford: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Frankford offers many benefits, including a relaxed lifestyle, a strong sense of community, and proximity to beautiful beaches. However, for individuals with or at risk of lung cancer, the transportation challenges must be carefully considered.

The Lung Cancer Score provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access in Frankford, highlighting the importance of reliable transportation for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer potential solutions, the limited public transit options and the distance to specialized medical centers present significant challenges.

Before making the move, prospective residents should thoroughly research their transportation options, assess their individual needs, and consult with their healthcare providers to ensure they can access the necessary care. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access in Frankford, allowing residents to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system with confidence. The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents of Frankford can receive the best possible care, regardless of their location.