19952, Harrington, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19952, Harrington, Delaware is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.84 percent of residents in 19952 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus with a distance of 10.81 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harrington, Delaware (ZIP Code 19952)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of salt and farmland in Harrington, Delaware (ZIP code 19952), a town steeped in history and community spirit. Yet, for those facing the daunting prospect of a lung cancer diagnosis, the bucolic charm can quickly fade, replaced by anxieties surrounding healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for Harrington, examining the crucial element of transportation and its impact on accessing vital medical care. This is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Harrington, or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare landscape.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare system. The goal is to empower individuals with the information needed to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The primary concern for lung cancer patients is timely access to specialized medical care, including oncologists, pulmonologists, radiation therapy, and surgical services. In Harrington, this often translates to journeys beyond the immediate town limits. The reliance on personal transportation is significant, but other options exist, albeit with varying degrees of accessibility and convenience.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The cornerstone of transportation in Harrington is the personal vehicle. The town's location, roughly equidistant from Dover and Milford, dictates the primary routes to healthcare facilities. The journey to the nearest major medical center, Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus in Dover, involves a drive of approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic. This trip primarily utilizes **U.S. Route 13**, the major north-south artery, and the connecting roads within Dover.

Heading south towards Milford and the Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus, the drive is a similar distance, about 25 minutes, primarily along **U.S. Route 113**. These routes, while generally well-maintained, are susceptible to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, potentially delaying critical appointments. The availability of parking at these hospitals is generally adequate, but patients should factor in potential delays when planning their trips.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, patients may need to travel to Wilmington or Philadelphia. These trips involve considerably longer drive times. Wilmington, approximately an hour and a half north, is accessible via **U.S. Route 13** and **Delaware Route 1**. Philadelphia, a two-hour drive, requires navigating **Delaware Route 1** and the **Delaware Memorial Bridge**, or the **I-95** corridor, known for its heavy traffic. These longer distances underscore the critical importance of reliable transportation and the potential strain on patients undergoing treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Harrington are limited. The Delaware Transit Corporation (DTC), operating as DART First State, provides bus service in the area. However, the frequency and coverage are not extensive. Route 301 serves the Harrington area, connecting to Dover and other towns.

The bus stops are generally accessible, with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features such as ramps and designated seating. However, the limited schedule and infrequent service make it a less-than-ideal option for frequent medical appointments. The travel time on the bus is considerably longer than driving, and transfers may be required, further complicating the journey. For lung cancer patients, the physical demands of navigating public transit, including walking, waiting in inclement weather, and potential exposure to germs, can be significant.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Harrington, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. Patients should factor in the potential for surge pricing and the need to schedule rides in advance.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Companies like MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff. These services can be invaluable for patients who cannot drive or who require assistance getting to and from appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly, making them a less accessible option for some.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Harrington, Delaware, reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers a sense of community and relative affordability, healthcare access presents challenges. The reliance on personal transportation is significant, with drive times to major medical centers ranging from 20 to 30 minutes. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing availability can be inconsistent. Medical transportation services offer a viable solution for some, but cost and pre-booking requirements can be barriers.

For those considering moving to Harrington, the "Lung Cancer Score" underscores the importance of careful planning. Individuals with a history of lung cancer or a family history of the disease should factor in the transportation challenges when making their decision. Proximity to family or friends who can provide transportation assistance is a significant advantage. Understanding the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is also crucial.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and the ability to reach medical appointments in a timely and efficient manner is critical for lung cancer patients. In Harrington, Delaware, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. While the town's location provides access to major medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration. By understanding the available options, patients can navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence and ensure they receive the care they need. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical services, but also about the ability to reach them.