19946, Frederica, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19946, Frederica, Delaware is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.09 percent of residents in 19946 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus with a distance of 8.26 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19946, Frederica, Delaware

The air hangs heavy with the salt-laced breath of the Delaware Bay in Frederica, Delaware, ZIP code 19946. This coastal community, nestled between the bustling Dover and the historic charm of Milford, offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and proximity to essential services. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for a serious diagnosis like lung cancer, the nuances of transportation become paramount. This write-up delves into the "Lung Cancer Score" for 19946, analyzing the crucial elements of transportation that impact a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care.

The cornerstone of the Lung Cancer Score hinges on understanding the drive times to relevant healthcare facilities. Proximity to specialized oncology services is critical, and in 19946, this means focusing on facilities in Dover and Milford. The primary artery for vehicular travel is Route 1, a limited-access highway that provides relatively swift passage north and south. A drive to Bayhealth Kent Campus in Dover, a major healthcare provider, typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey, primarily via Route 1, offers a relatively predictable commute, crucial for scheduled appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Alternatively, the drive to Milford Memorial Hospital, another healthcare option, utilizes Route 1 South and then Route 113. This route, generally taking between 20 and 30 minutes, can be impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours. Route 113, while a major thoroughfare, is not a limited-access highway, and therefore subject to traffic lights and potential congestion. The variability in drive times highlights the importance of factoring in travel time when scheduling appointments and considering the potential impact on a patient’s well-being.

Beyond these major hospitals, access to specialized oncology centers and radiation therapy facilities further afield may be necessary. These could include ChristianaCare’s Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute in Newark, a significantly longer drive of approximately one hour and 15 minutes, primarily via Route 1 and I-95. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of the patient's physical condition and stamina. The journey involves a significant time commitment, potentially impacting the patient's quality of life and the ability to maintain a regular treatment schedule.

Public transportation options in 19946 are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. DART First State, Delaware's public transit system, operates bus routes that serve the area. However, these routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to larger towns like Dover and Milford. Route 301, for instance, offers service along Route 1, providing a potential link to Dover. However, the frequency of service may not align with the needs of a patient undergoing treatment, and the overall travel time, including waiting periods, can be considerably longer than driving.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor for public transit users. DART First State buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system can vary. A patient with mobility limitations may find the process challenging, particularly when transferring between routes or dealing with inclement weather. The reliance on public transit for lung cancer patients highlights the need for a robust and accessible system.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. Their availability in 19946, while present, may be less reliable than in more densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to and from medical appointments. Patients on fixed incomes or those with limited financial resources may find this option cost-prohibitive. The availability of ride-sharing, therefore, is a consideration, but it is not a guaranteed solution for all transportation needs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, represent another option. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare facilities, offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. However, the availability of these services in 19946 and their associated costs must be carefully investigated. The cost of medical transportation can vary significantly, and insurance coverage may be limited.

The "Lung Cancer Score" in 19946 is therefore a multifaceted assessment. It considers the proximity to healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the patient's individual needs and circumstances. The drive times to Bayhealth Kent Campus and Milford Memorial Hospital offer reasonable access, while the longer commutes to specialized centers present greater challenges. The limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation all contribute to the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Frederica, or for current residents, a comprehensive understanding of these transportation factors is vital. It is crucial to assess the patient's ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial resources available to cover transportation costs. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a crucial determinant of a patient's ability to receive timely and effective lung cancer care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 19946 is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that evolves based on individual circumstances and available resources. While the community offers a blend of rural charm and proximity to essential services, the transportation challenges necessitate careful planning and proactive strategies to ensure healthcare access. This analysis underscores the importance of considering transportation when making decisions about healthcare and highlights the need for a robust and accessible transportation infrastructure to support the needs of all residents, especially those facing serious health challenges. The journey to healthcare, particularly for lung cancer patients, demands a thoughtful and informed approach to transportation.