46922, Delong, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 46922, Delong, Indiana is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 46922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pulaski Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.33 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 46922 (Delong, Indiana)

The crisp air of Delong, Indiana (ZIP Code 46922), whispers promises of rural tranquility. Yet, for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity can be shattered by the harsh realities of **healthcare access**. This write-up delves into the intricate web of **transportation** options available to residents of Delong, evaluating the potential challenges and opportunities in reaching vital medical services. We'll examine drive times, public transit availability, ride-share possibilities, and medical transport services, ultimately providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for this community. This score will help inform those **moving to Delong** or already residing there, providing a crucial understanding of the landscape they face in their fight against this formidable disease.

The primary concern for anyone battling lung cancer is timely access to specialized care. This includes oncology appointments, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and potentially surgery. Delong, a small community, lacks these specialized facilities. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. The most direct route to the major healthcare hubs involves navigating the state's roadways.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for residents. The primary artery connecting Delong to the outside world is **U.S. Route 35**. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours. Heading south on Route 35 will take you to Logansport, approximately a 20-30 minute drive, where you'll find some primary care physicians and a smaller hospital. However, for specialized oncology care, you'll likely need to travel further.

Continuing south on Route 35, you can connect to **U.S. Route 24**. This route offers access to more extensive medical facilities in Peru and Marion, Indiana. The drive to Peru is around 45 minutes, while Marion is roughly an hour away. These cities offer a wider array of specialists and treatment options. However, traffic on Route 24 can be unpredictable, especially during the morning and evening commutes.

Further afield, Indianapolis, the state capital, houses the most comprehensive cancer centers. Reaching Indianapolis from Delong requires a drive of approximately two hours, primarily via **U.S. Route 31** and **Interstate 65**. While the interstate offers faster travel, it also presents its own challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly around Indianapolis, can significantly extend travel times. Adverse weather conditions, common in Indiana, can further complicate matters. This long drive, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, presents a significant hurdle for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

Public transit options in Delong are extremely limited. The area lacks a robust public transportation system. There are no fixed-route buses or trains directly serving the community. This severely restricts **healthcare access** for those who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their illness. The absence of public transit places a disproportionate burden on vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of a reliable public transit system underscores the importance of alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability in a rural setting like Delong can be inconsistent. Surge pricing, a common practice during peak demand, can significantly increase the cost of rides, adding another financial burden for patients. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in Delong may be limited, potentially leading to delays or cancellations, which can be particularly problematic for time-sensitive medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically involve a pre-arranged ride in a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially during peak hours or on weekends. The cost of NEMT services can also be a significant factor, potentially adding to the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis.

The lack of accessible public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services highlight the challenges faced by individuals battling lung cancer in Delong. The reliance on personal vehicles or medical **transportation** services places a considerable burden on patients and their families. The long travel distances to specialized cancer centers, combined with potential traffic delays and the cost of **transportation**, can negatively impact the quality of life and potentially delay access to life-saving treatments.

Considering the challenges outlined above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Delong, Indiana (46922) is a **3 out of 10**. This score reflects the limited **healthcare access** due to the lack of public transit, the distance to specialized cancer centers, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-share services. The score also considers the potential financial burden associated with **transportation** costs and the availability of medical **transportation** services.

For those **moving to Delong**, this score underscores the importance of careful planning and preparation. Individuals with a history of lung cancer or at high risk should consider the **transportation** challenges when evaluating their relocation. It is crucial to factor in the time commitment, financial costs, and potential stress associated with accessing specialized medical care.

For current residents, this score emphasizes the need to advocate for improved **healthcare access** in the community. This could involve supporting initiatives to improve public transit, advocating for the expansion of ride-sharing services, or lobbying for increased funding for medical **transportation** programs. Community support networks, including family, friends, and local organizations, are essential in providing assistance and support to patients navigating the complexities of cancer care.

The journey through a lung cancer diagnosis is arduous. The challenges of **transportation** in Delong, Indiana, add another layer of complexity. By understanding the limitations and exploring available resources, residents can better navigate the system and ensure timely access to the care they need. The fight against lung cancer is a community effort, and improving **healthcare access** is a vital step in supporting those battling this devastating disease.