31321, Pembroke, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 31321, Pembroke, Georgia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.57 percent of residents in 31321 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Evans Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.56 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Pembroke, Georgia (ZIP Code 31321)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those battling lung cancer, is a critical component of treatment and survival. In Pembroke, Georgia (ZIP code 31321), the accessibility of specialized care significantly impacts the quality of life for residents facing this formidable disease. This write-up explores the "Lung Cancer Score" for Pembroke, evaluating the landscape of transportation options and healthcare access, providing a comprehensive understanding for residents and those considering moving to this community.

Pembroke, a charming town nestled in Bryan County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The town’s relative isolation, coupled with limited public transportation, necessitates a thorough examination of the available options for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. This analysis, focusing on transportation, healthcare access, and the implications for those considering moving to Pembroke, aims to offer a clear picture of the realities faced by patients and their families.

The primary mode of transportation in Pembroke is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars underscores the importance of understanding drive times to various healthcare facilities. For residents, the nearest major hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah, approximately 30 to 40 miles away. The primary route involves navigating Highway 280 East, a vital artery connecting Pembroke to Savannah. This drive, while generally straightforward, can be subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours.

Alternatively, residents can utilize Interstate 16 East, which provides a faster, although slightly longer, route to Savannah. This option, while potentially reducing drive time, requires navigating the interstate, which can present its own set of challenges, including higher speeds and increased traffic density. The choice between these routes often depends on individual preferences, traffic conditions, and the urgency of the medical appointment.

Further afield, for specialized treatments or consultations, patients may need to travel to facilities in Atlanta, a journey of approximately 170 miles. This trip typically involves taking Interstate 16 West to Interstate 75 North. This extended travel time underscores the importance of planning and coordinating transportation, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing mobility limitations. The long distances to specialized care facilities highlight the importance of evaluating the availability of local support systems and the potential need for extended stays near treatment centers.

Public transportation options in Pembroke are extremely limited. There is no established bus system operating within the town or connecting it to Savannah. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. This deficiency in public transportation further emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport for accessing healthcare.

For individuals with disabilities, the absence of accessible public transportation poses a significant challenge. The lack of wheelchair-accessible buses or other specialized services limits their ability to independently access medical appointments and treatments. This underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport, which may come with additional costs and logistical complexities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Pembroke, but their reliability and availability can vary. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in the early morning, is not guaranteed. Patients relying on ride-sharing services must plan their trips carefully, booking rides in advance and allowing ample time for travel. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or long-distance travel.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including First Choice Medical Transportation and MedTrans Corporation. These services, while offering a valuable resource, can be expensive and may require pre-authorization or insurance coverage.

The availability of medical transportation services is crucial for patients with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatments that may affect their ability to drive. These services provide a safe and reliable means of transportation, ensuring patients can attend their medical appointments without the added stress and burden of driving.

The healthcare access landscape in Pembroke is further shaped by the availability of local medical facilities. While Pembroke has local primary care physicians and clinics, specialized cancer care is not available within the town. This necessitates travel to Savannah or other regional centers for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The absence of local oncology services underscores the importance of robust transportation options and the need for patients to navigate the complexities of accessing specialized care outside of their immediate community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Pembroke reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this community. The score considers factors such as drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing reliability, and the availability of medical transportation services. A lower score would indicate greater challenges in accessing care, while a higher score would reflect a more favorable environment.

For individuals considering moving to Pembroke, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs, assess the availability of support systems, and consider the potential costs associated with accessing specialized medical care. The realities of transportation and healthcare access are integral to the overall quality of life in this community.

The implications for those battling lung cancer in Pembroke are significant. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport can add to the stress and burden of managing this disease. The journey to healthcare is not just a physical one; it is also an emotional and financial one.

The community's ability to support patients with lung cancer is critical. This includes providing information about available transportation options, advocating for improved public transportation, and supporting local initiatives that provide assistance with transportation costs. The strength of the community's response can significantly impact the quality of life for those facing this challenging disease.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Pembroke, Georgia, highlights the importance of transportation and healthcare access in the lives of residents. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to the overall score. For those considering moving to Pembroke, understanding these realities is crucial. The journey to healthcare is a critical component of the fight against lung cancer, and the community's commitment to supporting patients and their families is paramount. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape and access the necessary medical care is essential for improving the quality of life and increasing the chances of survival for individuals battling this formidable disease.