19958, Lewes, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19958, Lewes, Delaware is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.03 percent of residents in 19958 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beebe Medical Center with a distance of 1.48 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19958 (Lewes, Delaware)**

The air hangs thick with the promise of the sea in Lewes, Delaware (ZIP code 19958), a haven for retirees and families alike. But beneath the charming facade of this historic town lies a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move: access to healthcare, particularly for a disease as formidable as lung cancer. This write-up will dissect the realities of healthcare access, focusing on the transportation landscape and its impact on a hypothetical patient navigating a lung cancer diagnosis. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, painting a picture of the practical challenges and potential solutions for those seeking care in and around Lewes.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Lewes, 19958, is not a numerical value, but rather an assessment of the ease with which a patient can access timely and comprehensive care. This score is heavily influenced by the efficiency and availability of transportation. A patient battling lung cancer often faces frequent appointments: diagnostic tests, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. Each journey, often undertaken while feeling unwell, is a test of endurance.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads to Recovery**

For residents of Lewes, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is, inevitably, the automobile. Beebe Healthcare, the primary hospital in the area, is located in Lewes, making it the most accessible option for many. However, specialized oncology services, including radiation therapy, might necessitate travel to facilities in Rehoboth Beach or even Wilmington, Delaware.

The drive to Beebe Healthcare is generally straightforward, relying primarily on Coastal Highway (Route 1). Traffic can be a factor, especially during peak tourist seasons or on weekends. A drive from the western edge of Lewes to Beebe can take as little as 5-10 minutes, while those residing closer to the oceanfront might find the commute even shorter.

For more specialized care, the journey becomes more complex. The drive to the ChristianaCare Cancer Center in Rehoboth Beach, a facility offering comprehensive oncology services, involves navigating Route 1. The distance is relatively short, typically a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. However, the potential for congestion, particularly during the summer months, must be factored in. A patient undergoing radiation therapy, requiring daily treatments, would face this commute regularly.

Traveling to Wilmington, Delaware, for more specialized care, such as clinical trials or advanced surgical procedures, presents a significant challenge. The drive, primarily along Route 1 and then either Route 13 or the Delaware Route 1 Connector, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This long commute, coupled with the physical and emotional toll of cancer treatment, significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Lewes and Sussex County are limited. DART First State, Delaware's public transit system, operates bus routes, but their frequency and coverage are not ideal for cancer patients. Route 201, for example, connects Lewes to Rehoboth Beach, offering a potential, albeit less convenient, alternative to driving. The bus route may require transfers and is not as frequent as one might like.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of DART buses is a crucial consideration. All DART buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the extended travel times and potential for multiple transfers make public transit a less desirable option for many patients, especially those experiencing treatment side effects.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. However, their availability in Lewes can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide or FirstLight Home Care may operate in the area, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services, while offering greater convenience and safety, often come with a higher price tag.

**The Impact on the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for Lewes (19958) is impacted by the following factors:

* **Proximity to Beebe Healthcare:** The presence of Beebe Healthcare in Lewes is a significant advantage, providing immediate access to primary care and some oncology services.
* **Limited Specialized Care:** The need to travel to Rehoboth Beach or Wilmington for specialized treatments and advanced care significantly reduces the score.
* **Traffic Congestion:** Seasonal traffic, particularly on Route 1, can exacerbate commute times, adding stress and potential delays for patients.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The lack of robust public transit options limits the accessibility of healthcare for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.
* **Ride-Sharing Inconsistencies:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services can be unpredictable, creating challenges for patients.
* **Medical Transportation Costs:** While medical transportation services offer convenience and safety, their cost can be prohibitive for some patients.

**Moving to Lewes: A Consideration for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering a move to Lewes, especially those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, healthcare access should be a primary consideration. While the charm and quality of life in Lewes are undeniable, the limitations in transportation and the need for specialized care elsewhere must be carefully weighed.

**Recommendations for Improving the Lung Cancer Score**

* **Advocate for Expanded Public Transit:** Increased frequency and coverage of DART bus routes, especially those connecting Lewes to Rehoboth Beach and Wilmington, would improve healthcare access.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Availability:** Encourage ride-sharing companies to increase their presence in the area, offering incentives for drivers and patients.
* **Support Medical Transportation Services:** Explore partnerships with medical transportation providers to offer subsidized or discounted services for patients.
* **Expand Oncology Services at Beebe Healthcare:** Advocate for the expansion of oncology services at Beebe Healthcare, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances.
* **Community Support Networks:** Establish and support community-based programs that provide transportation assistance, such as volunteer driver programs or carpooling initiatives.

In conclusion, while Lewes offers a desirable lifestyle, the Lung Cancer Score is influenced by the transportation landscape. The ability to access timely and comprehensive care is crucial for lung cancer patients. By addressing the transportation challenges and advocating for improved healthcare access, the community can enhance the quality of life for all residents, including those battling this formidable disease. The dream of moving to Lewes is made more attainable when the realities of healthcare access are fully understood.