19963, Milford, Delaware Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19963, Milford, Delaware is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.11 percent of residents in 19963 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus with a distance of 1.82 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Milford, DE (ZIP Code 19963)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of salt and sea in Milford, Delaware, a town nestled along the Mispillion River, where the promise of a slower pace of life beckons. However, for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the tranquility of this coastal community is often overshadowed by the pressing need for timely and efficient healthcare access. This write-up assesses the “Lung Cancer Score” for residents of ZIP Code 19963, examining the complexities of transportation to medical facilities, specifically those equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities for patients and their families.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the primary healthcare destinations for lung cancer care. Given the relatively limited specialized oncology services within Milford itself, patients will likely need to travel to larger medical centers. The closest major hospitals with comprehensive cancer care are ChristianaCare’s hospitals in Newark and Wilmington, Delaware, both requiring a significant commute.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways to Recovery**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. From Milford, the journey to ChristianaCare’s Newark campus typically involves navigating US Route 113 North, a major artery connecting the Delmarva Peninsula. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. The drive time, under ideal conditions, is approximately one hour, but traffic can easily extend this to an hour and fifteen minutes or longer.

The route to ChristianaCare’s Wilmington campus, while slightly longer in terms of distance, often offers a smoother ride. This journey involves heading north on US Route 113, merging onto DE Route 1, a limited-access highway, and then connecting to I-95 North. The drive time averages around one hour and fifteen minutes, but again, traffic, particularly around Wilmington, can add considerable delays. The availability of parking at both hospitals is generally adequate, but patients should factor in potential wait times, particularly during peak hours.

Smaller, more local healthcare facilities, such as the Bayhealth Sussex Campus in Milford, offer some diagnostic services and primary care, but advanced lung cancer treatment is unlikely. Access to these facilities is generally straightforward, requiring only short drives along local roads like North and South Walnut Street or Northeast Front Street. However, these facilities are unlikely to be the primary destination for lung cancer care.

**Public Transit: A Patchwork of Possibilities**

Public transportation options in Milford, and throughout much of Sussex County, are limited. DART First State, Delaware’s public transit agency, provides bus service, but the routes are infrequent and primarily designed for local travel. The primary route serving Milford is Route 301, which connects Milford to Dover, the state capital. This route offers limited service, with buses running approximately every hour or two, making it challenging for patients needing frequent appointments.

The accessibility of DART buses is a crucial consideration. All DART buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the extended travel times and potential for transfers, particularly to reach the Wilmington or Newark hospitals, make public transit a less viable option for many patients. The lack of direct routes and the time commitment involved can significantly impact a patient's ability to attend appointments and receive timely care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Milford, offering a more flexible transportation option than public transit. However, the cost of these services can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. Patients should factor in the potential for surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing can also be a concern, as availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility challenges and providing a more comfortable and stress-free experience. However, these services often come with a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit, and patients should explore insurance coverage options to mitigate expenses.

**Moving to Milford: A Healthcare Access Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Milford, the Lung Cancer Score should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, the limited access to specialized healthcare services, particularly for lung cancer, poses a challenge. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access.

The ability to drive, or have access to a reliable driver, is crucial. If driving is not an option, the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services becomes even more critical. Proximity to family or friends who can provide transportation support is also a significant advantage.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 19963 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a pleasant living environment, the limited access to specialized healthcare services for lung cancer patients presents a significant challenge. The drive times to major hospitals, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services all contribute to the overall score.

For patients, the score underscores the importance of proactive planning. This includes researching transportation options, understanding insurance coverage for medical transportation, and establishing a support network to assist with appointments and care. The score also highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in the region, including expanding public transit options, increasing the availability of medical transportation services, and potentially attracting specialized oncology services to the area.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measure; it evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and patient needs. By understanding the current landscape and proactively addressing the challenges, residents of Milford can navigate the complexities of lung cancer care and improve their chances of a positive outcome. The commute to healthcare is a critical journey, and a thoughtful approach to transportation can make a significant difference in a patient’s overall well-being.